The Falcon: Raw Deal 12/10/1950

Summary

Summary of "The Falcon: Raw Deal" | Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio

Episode Information

• Title: The Falcon: Raw Deal
• Host/Author: Choice Classic Radio
• Original Air Date: December 10, 1950
• Release Date: January 2, 2025

Introduction "The Falcon: Raw Deal" is a compelling episode from the renowned detective series featuring Mike Waring, known as The Falcon. Hosted by Choice Classic Radio, this episode delves into a high-stakes poker game gone awry, leading to a complex investigation filled with deceit, betrayal, and unexpected twists.

Plot Overview

1. The High-Stakes Poker Game ([00:34] - [05:53])

The episode opens with a tense poker game in room 508 of the Little Hotel Westland, where four men—Gilbert Bannister, Harry Summers, Otto Freitag, and Dave Krez—are wagering a hefty $65,000. The atmosphere is thick with suspicion and competitiveness.

Gilbert Bannister ([03:05]): "How many summers? I'll take two, Bannister. Two it is."

As the game progresses, Sergeant Corbett disrupts the proceedings, brandishing a gun and threatening the players. His sudden appearance injects chaos into the room, leading to confusion and fear among the gamblers.

2. Introduction of The Falcon ([06:45] - [12:05])

Gilbert Bannister contacts Mike Waring, The Falcon, seeking assistance in recovering the stolen $65,000. Waring agrees to help, prompting a meeting with the other players to gather more information.

Mike Waring ([07:21]): "Timbuktu, here I come."

During this interaction, Bannister and Otto Freitag express their mutual distrust, hinting at underlying tensions that complicate the investigation.

3. The Investigation Deepens ([12:11] - [19:38])

As Waring delves deeper, Sergeant Corbett informs him of Dave Kress's suspicious disappearance, adding another layer to the mystery. Corbett's erratic behavior and vague statements raise suspicions about his true intentions.

Harry Summers ([14:51]): "If that kind of luck's gonna hang on, do me a favor, will you, Waring? Go chase yourself."

Waring's pursuit leads him to confront Rocky Rockwell, a key figure connected to the case. Their encounter reveals crucial information about Kress's whereabouts and Corbett's possible involvement.

4. Unraveling the Mystery ([19:38] - [28:10])

The plot thickens as Waring uncovers inconsistencies in Bannister's and Freitag's stories. He deduces that Harry Summers is the true culprit behind the theft and subsequent murders.

Mike Waring ([28:20]): "Remember I told you I had a date with Rockwell's girlfriend?"

Through strategic questioning and keen observation, Waring pieces together the timeline of events, ultimately attributing the crimes to Summers, who manipulated the situation to cover his tracks.

5. The Culmination and Resolution ([28:10] - [29:20])

In the final act, Waring confronts Summers with the evidence, leading to Summers's revelation and confession. The Falcon's unyielding pursuit of the truth ensures justice is served, wrapping up the intricate case.

Mike Waring ([28:38]): "Well, that just goes to show there are some things you can't take at their face value."

Key Characters

• Mike Waring (The Falcon): The astute and resourceful private detective at the heart of the investigation.
• Gilbert Bannister: The eldest and seemingly most trustworthy of the poker players, who becomes a pivotal figure in the unfolding drama.
• Harry Summers: A charming yet deceitful gambler who orchestrates the theft and murders.
• Otto Freitag: A poker player with a hidden agenda, whose actions contribute to the case's complexity.
• Sergeant Corbett: A mysterious and unpredictable police officer whose true loyalties remain ambiguous until later in the episode.
• Rocky Rockwell: Connected to the central mystery, his interactions with Waring provide essential clues.

Notable Quotes

1. Gilbert Bannister's Trust Issues ([08:25]):

   Gilbert Bannister: "It's just that I."

   Context: Reflecting his hesitation and guarded nature during the investigation.

2. Waring's Determination ([05:44]):

   Mike Waring: "I can hardly wait. Fact is, I'm not gonna wait. You're taking me with you. Or it's goodbye now and it's goodbye."

   Context: Demonstrating his relentless pursuit of the truth, even in the face of danger.

3. Summers's Confession ([28:20]):

   Harry Summers: "He's absolutely right. We didn't trust each other's checks. How can we trust each other's words?"

   Context: Admission of the group’s lack of trust, inadvertently uncovering the motivations behind the theft and murders.

4. Waring's Insight ([28:38]):

   Mike Waring: "Well, that just goes to show there are some things you can't take at their face value."

   Context: Highlighting the deceptive appearances that initially misled the investigation.

Insights and Conclusions

"The Falcon: Raw Deal" masterfully intertwines suspense and detective work, showcasing Mike Waring's exceptional investigative skills. The episode emphasizes themes of trust, deception, and the complexity of human motives. Through meticulous dialogue and character development, listeners are drawn into a web of intrigue that keeps them guessing until the very end.

The interactions between Waring and the other characters reveal the flawed nature of trust within high-stakes environments. Sergeant Corbett's unpredictable behavior serves as a red herring, diverting suspicion before the true antagonist, Harry Summers, is unveiled. Waring's strategic questioning and attention to detail are pivotal in unraveling the truth, underscoring the importance of perseverance in detective work.

Conclusion

"The Falcon: Raw Deal" stands as a testament to the golden age of radio detective dramas. With its engaging narrative, well-rounded characters, and unexpected twists, the episode offers an immersive listening experience for both longtime fans and newcomers to the genre. Mike Waring's journey to uncover the truth amidst deceit and betrayal exemplifies the enduring allure of classic detective storytelling.

Transcript

[Rocky Rockwell]

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[Mike Waring]

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[Mike Waring]

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[Rocky Rockwell]

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[Mike Waring]

My school uses Podbean. My church too. I love it. I really do. Welcome to Choice Classic Radio where we bring to you the greatest old time radio shows like us on Facebook. Subscribe to us on YouTube and thank.

[Hazel Gardner]

You for [e-mail] the Kraft Foods company brings you the Adventures of the Falcon starring Les Demon.

[Mike Waring]

Hello? Yes, this is the Falcon speaking. Oh, Eloise, I'd love to see you, but I'm afraid. I'm afraid you'll have to deal me out tonight, angel. I have a job to do for some characters who got involved in a stiff poker game. Started out nice and friendly, but before they got through, they found they were playing for blood.

[Hazel Gardner]

This is Ed Herlihy, friends, inviting you on behalf of the Kraft Foods company to listen to the Adventures of the Falcon. You met the Falcon first in his best selling novels. Then you saw him in his thrilling motion picture series. Now join him on the air when the Falcon solves the case of the Raw Deal. Before we join the Falcon in his latest adventure, I'd like to tell you folks about Kraft's golden cheese food. Velve Vita. Velveeta is such good eating. Just taste that grand rich yet mild cheddar cheese flavor. And Velveeta is so good for you. It's rich in important food values. From milk itself for swell tasting snacks, for good hearty sandwiches for thrifty easy hot dishes. It's smart to keep stocked with Velveeta. Get it tomorrow in the handy quarter pound package or in the economical two pound loaf. The cheese food of top quality Velveeta is made only by Kraft. And now the case of the Raw Deal. It's Sunday night in New York and in room 508 of the Little Hotel Westland, four men sit around a table on which stand a couple of beer bottles, some glasses, butt filled Ashtra, $65,000 in cash. Gilbert Bannister, eldest and fattest of the group, studies the five playing cards in his hand, then places them face down on the table, picks up the deck, turns to the tall blond young man on his left.

[Gilbert Bannister]

How many summers? I'll take two, Bannister. Two it is. Krez.

[Harry Summers]

I'll play these pattern looks like your.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Luck's changing, Cress Abbey. Well, how about you, Frei zag?

[Otto Freitag]

I have to think about this, pet. Hand of klasses.

[Hazel Gardner]

Yes?

[Gilbert Bannister]

Who is it?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Bellboy.

[Hazel Gardner]

All right, come in.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Well, Freyjag, made up your mind?

[Otto Freitag]

Yeah, I think I'll take one card.

[Mike Waring]

Right.

[Gilbert Bannister]

There you are. And now you, son, you can put the beer down.

[Hazel Gardner]

What?

[Gilbert Bannister]

Say, you're not a bellboy.

[Sergeant Corbett]

What do you know? I guess I'm not.

[Harry Summers]

Look outy, he's got a gun.

[Sergeant Corbett]

That's right, bright eyes, sharp fella. Everybody sit tight except fatso. You, fatso, get up.

[Hazel Gardner]

Me?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Who else? Get up, walk over to the wall and face it. That's right. We do this one at a time. Now you, blondie.

[Gilbert Bannister]

I guess that means me.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I guess it does. And now, brighteyes.

[Harry Summers]

Okay, okay. Only be careful with that gun.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Ah, sure, bright eyes. Sure. Well, baldy, that leaves you. Come on, get.

[Otto Freitag]

Move. All right. Only first I do this.

[Sergeant Corbett]

All right, hold it, fella. Stay right where you are. He made a little mistake, that's all. He's sleeping it off. I better clear up this table so you fellas can have some more room. Get all this cash off it. All right, fellas, here we are. Now you can get back to your game. Only I think this time it's gonna be Penny. Who's that?

[Rocky Rockwell]

Me, Rocky Hegel.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Oh, just a second, kid. Hello, baby.

[Rocky Rockwell]

Hello, Rocky. Hey, you're packing. We going someplace?

[Sergeant Corbett]

I am.

[Rocky Rockwell]

Alone?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Look, I just made a big haul, kid. May have to keep on a move for a while. Can't carry extra weight.

[Rocky Rockwell]

I carry my own weight, Rocky. You know that.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, it complicates things when I'm sick.

[Rocky Rockwell]

You know something? This has all the earmarks of a brush. Believe me, kid, that'll be the day.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I'm gonna send for you.

[Rocky Rockwell]

I can hardly wait. Fact is, I'm not gonna wait. You're taking me with you. Or it's goodbye now and it's goodbye. Just like that.

[Sergeant Corbett]

That's the way you want it?

[Rocky Rockwell]

I can see you're all broken up about it.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, you're not shedding any tears.

[Rocky Rockwell]

I have already. I've seen this coming for a long time.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, maybe it's a good thing we've got it settled.

[Rocky Rockwell]

Maybe it is.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Didn't work out, that's all. No reason to get sore at each other, huh, baby?

[Rocky Rockwell]

Oh, I'm not sore at you, Rocky.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Good.

[Rocky Rockwell]

I'm sore at myself for being such a sucker, letting you kid me along.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I wasn't kidding. It's just that I.

[Rocky Rockwell]

Not much you weren't?

[Sergeant Corbett]

No. I'm not gonna argue about it. It's all over now. Nothing we can do.

[Rocky Rockwell]

Oh, I wouldn't say that, Rocky. I might think of something. At least it's worth.

[Mike Waring]

Hello.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Is Michael Wearing there? The Falcon.

[Mike Waring]

This is the Falcon speaking.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Oh, good. My name is Gilbert Bannister. I have a job for you, sir.

[Mike Waring]

What kind of job?

[Gilbert Bannister]

Well, some friends and I were robbed last night, and we want you to find the thief.

[Mike Waring]

Why did you wait till this morning to call me?

[Gilbert Bannister]

Why, I don't know. We. We were upset. I. I realize it was foolish. I'm sorry.

[Mike Waring]

You don't have to apologize. But you may have to kick in with traveling expenses if it was good pickings. The crook is probably on his way to Timbuktu by now. How much did he take?

[Gilbert Bannister]

65,000.

[Mike Waring]

Timbuktu, here I come.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Well, first, can you come over here to the Hotel Westland? We'd like to talk to you.

[Mike Waring]

Right, Bannister. I'll be seeing you.

[Gilbert Bannister]

So I can introduce you to the others. Mr. Waring. Gentlemen, here's the Falcon. This is Harry Summers and Otto Freitag. Wearing, Otto.

[Mike Waring]

Hello. You told me there were four of your banister.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Yes, that's right, Waring. We agreed to meet here, but Dave Kress hasn't shown up. I called his room, but he's out.

[Mike Waring]

I see him.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Well, gentlemen, I've given Waring a brief account of what happened as I remember it. But he wants to check certain points with you. Surely, Waring, anything we can do to help.

[Otto Freitag]

Thanks, Summers, but I'm afraid there's not much we can tell you. None of us ever saw this man before.

[Mike Waring]

I know, Freytag, but you'd be surprised at the sort of things that sometimes prove useful in a case like this.

[Otto Freitag]

What sort of things?

[Mike Waring]

Well, your head, for instance.

[Otto Freitag]

My head?

[Mike Waring]

Yeah, Bannister told me you put up a fight and got clouded for your trouble.

[Otto Freitag]

Yeah, very foolish, I realize now. But I don't see what to see.

[Mike Waring]

Let me see. Well, you got quite a lump there and a cut.

[Otto Freitag]

Yeah, he hit me with his gun.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Just what are you trying to prove, Waring?

[Mike Waring]

Summers? You fellows want me to find the man who swiped your dough. So far, Bannister has given me a description. But there are 10 million people in New York. If he stays in New York, I'll need more than just a description.

[Otto Freitag]

Well, how do you think this bump on my head will help? You think maybe he left fingerprints?

[Mike Waring]

It just seems to me that the easiest way to find our boy is to discover which one of you he's working with.

[Gilbert Bannister]

What do you mean by that? Just a minute, Waring. Are you accusing one of us?

[Mike Waring]

Well, the crook knew there was a game going on in here.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Well, we're here for a convention, Waring. There are nearly always card games in the evening.

[Mike Waring]

Yes, but now with $65,000 in cash on the table.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Well, that's true.

[Hazel Gardner]

It was a big game.

[Mike Waring]

And the crook selected this room.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Still is preposterous. To think that one of us.

[Mike Waring]

Well, I. Bannister, you trying to tell me that you boys all have complete trust in one another?

[Gilbert Bannister]

More or less. I don't think we'd care to accuse each other of, well, thievery.

[Mike Waring]

Why? Were you playing for cash?

[Otto Freitag]

Well, he is right, Bannister. He's absolutely right. We didn't trust each other's checks. How can we trust each other's words?

[Mike Waring]

That's it, Freytag.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Get out of here, Waring. Your services aren't required after all. I'm not going to have my friends insulted.

[Mike Waring]

Or yourself.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Or myself. Get out.

[Otto Freitag]

Now, just a minute, Bannister.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Now you keep out of this, Freytag. Well, Waring?

[Mike Waring]

All right, all right. I'm going. I see I got a little too close for comfort.

[Gilbert Bannister]

What do you mean by that?

[Mike Waring]

Here, keep your hands to yourself. Bannister. Just had the suit cleaned.

[Gilbert Bannister]

What did you. I told you to lay off.

[Mike Waring]

You change your mind again, you know where to find me. Now, so long, gentlemen.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Just a minute, Waring. Were you accusing me personally?

[Mike Waring]

Look, you're too touchy, Bannister. I was suspicious of all of you. That's why I wanted to see Freytag's head. To see if he'd really been clouded or was just faking.

[Otto Freitag]

So that's why you wanted to find out if I was really hit or just pretending.

[Mike Waring]

That's right. A staged fight would make a nice cover if you were in the deal. But that blow is a little too hard to be a phony.

[Otto Freitag]

Yeah, I'm glad you realized that.

[Mike Waring]

Unless your confederate got a little over enthusiastic. That could have happened, too, you know.

[Otto Freitag]

Ah. For a moment, I was hoping you were going to clear me.

[Mike Waring]

Chances are I'm going to be able to clear all of you if you still want me to.

[Gilbert Bannister]

But you said one of us.

[Mike Waring]

I said one of your card party summers. How about the one who wasn't here? Kress? Yes? Bannister says he's not in the hotel.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Yes, but he. He could have gone out to breakfast.

[Mike Waring]

So he could. He could also have left town.

[Otto Freitag]

What are you doing now?

[Mike Waring]

Finding out. Hello. Desk, please. One will get you five. He's checked out.

[Gilbert Bannister]

What will we do if he has?

[Mike Waring]

Look for him. Am I still working for you?

[Gilbert Bannister]

I guess you are wearing all right.

[Mike Waring]

Hello. Can you tell me if David Kress has checked out yet? Mm. Well, they're looking it up. Hello? Yes. What's that? You sure? All right. Thanks.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Well, has he.

[Mike Waring]

No, Banister, he hasn't.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Looks like we've hired us the wrong detective.

[Mike Waring]

Maybe so, Summers. I could have sworn Cress had skipped. I don't know how to figure this one.

[Otto Freitag]

Maybe that's him now.

[Gilbert Bannister]

I'll go see.

[Harry Summers]

Are you Gilbert Bannister?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yes.

[Harry Summers]

Sergeant Corbett, Police department.

[Hazel Gardner]

Police?

[Mike Waring]

Don't tell me you've been transferred to Missing Persons.

[Harry Summers]

Oh, you would be here, Waring. No, I'm not Missing Persons. And if I was, I wouldn't be looking for you.

[Mike Waring]

Are you looking for me?

[Harry Summers]

Don't make me laugh. I came up to talk to Bannister. Understand he's a friend of Dave Kress.

[Gilbert Bannister]

That's right, Sergeant. What about Cress? Has he done something the other way around? What's that?

[Harry Summers]

Yeah, Bannister. Somebody pumped a couple of slugs in him. He's dead. Waring, why don't you toddle along? There must be some mentally underdeveloped girl who just loved to hold hands with you.

[Mike Waring]

You know me, Corbett. Business before pleasure. I'll help you search Chris room.

[Harry Summers]

If I find anything important, I'll let you know.

[Mike Waring]

Yes, but how will you know what is important unless I'm around to point it out? Now, come on, let's go in.

[Harry Summers]

Scram.

[Mike Waring]

No, you don't mean that. You couldn't do without me.

[Harry Summers]

Wouldn't I love to try it sometime?

[Mike Waring]

Come on. Come on, open the door.

[Harry Summers]

But remember, you don't touch anything.

[Mike Waring]

I wouldn't dream of this.

[Harry Summers]

It's not dreams I'm worrying about. If I catch you trying to snitch any clues?

[Mike Waring]

Believe me, Corbett, you don't have a thing to worry about in that score.

[Harry Summers]

I hope not.

[Mike Waring]

I guarantee it. I positively guarantee you won't catch me.

[Harry Summers]

Very funny. Anyway, I warned you. Any monkey business and I throw the book at you for obstructing justice. If you think I'm gonna let our friendship stop me.

[Mike Waring]

That's a new name for it.

[Harry Summers]

Drop Dead Waring.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah, sure, later. Right now we've got. Hey, look at this.

[Harry Summers]

What is it?

[Mike Waring]

A card with a name and phone number typed on it.

[Harry Summers]

Let's see There.

[Mike Waring]

You're welcome.

[Harry Summers]

Get me Plaza 9. 3 098. Yeah.

[Mike Waring]

You don't believe in wasting time, do you, Corbett?

[Harry Summers]

Can't hurt the check. Hello. I want to speak to Mr. Rockwell. He has eh.

[Rocky Rockwell]

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[Mike Waring]

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[Rocky Rockwell]

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[Mike Waring]

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[Rocky Rockwell]

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[Mike Waring]

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[Harry Summers]

I see. Okay, thanks. Checked out last night.

[Mike Waring]

Well, that fits. He must be the guy I'm looking for. Maybe some merry go round. Go on a chase for Kress, he winds up dead. Then widen the chase to who he was working with, he winds up gone.

[Harry Summers]

Well, if that kind of luck's gonna hang on, do me a favor, will you, Waring?

[Mike Waring]

Sure. What's that?

[Harry Summers]

Go chase yourself. Huh?

[Rocky Rockwell]

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[Hazel Gardner]

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[Rocky Rockwell]

It's super fine.

[Hazel Gardner]

Get craft salad oil tomorrow at your grocer's. Look for the bottles with the beautiful labels. Now back to the Adventures of the Falcon. A day has passed since Mike discovered the probable name of the man he has hired to find. And with a name to go on, he's been checking with people who knew the fellow. He winds up at the cashier's desk in a small downtown cafe.

[Mike Waring]

Hello, Hazel.

[Rocky Rockwell]

Do I know you?

[Mike Waring]

Well, if you don't, here's your chance. My name's Mike Waring.

[Rocky Rockwell]

Can't you see, I'm busy.

[Mike Waring]

All right, go ahead, make change. I won't interfere.

[Rocky Rockwell]

What do you want?

[Mike Waring]

Where can I find Rocky Rockwell?

[Rocky Rockwell]

Why ask me?

[Mike Waring]

You're his girlfriend.

[Rocky Rockwell]

Don't make me laugh. Rocky doesn't have any friends, girl or otherwise.

[Mike Waring]

Well, if you're not his friend, you have no reason to try to shield him.

[Rocky Rockwell]

Who says I'm trying to shield him?

[Mike Waring]

You won't tell me where to find him?

[Rocky Rockwell]

I don't know. Why do you want him?

[Mike Waring]

Well, if you're no friend, it shouldn't matter.

[Rocky Rockwell]

It does.

[Mike Waring]

Why?

[Rocky Rockwell]

Well, if you're going to make trouble for him.

[Mike Waring]

What makes you think that?

[Rocky Rockwell]

He said I was shielding him. That smells like trouble.

[Mike Waring]

So you won't tell me where he is?

[Rocky Rockwell]

I told you, I don't know where he is. But if I could be sure you were going to make enough trouble for him, I might try to find out.

[Mike Waring]

Well?

[Hazel Gardner]

Front, please.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Ah, Waring. Hello there.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, hello, Bannister. I'm just going up to your room.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Well, I'm glad we caught you.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, Summers. Right there.

[Otto Freitag]

Hello.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Well, shall we tell him what we decided?

[Otto Freitag]

I guess so.

[Mike Waring]

I suppose you get to it. The suspense is boring me.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Well, Waring, it's just that the situation has changed.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, has it, Summer?

[Harry Summers]

Certainly.

[Gilbert Bannister]

We hired you to track down an unknown thief. Now, he's no longer unknown.

[Mike Waring]

His whereabouts are true.

[Otto Freitag]

But now that he is wanted for murder, Mr. Waring, the police will spare no effort to capture him.

[Mike Waring]

No comment, Freitag. Go on.

[Otto Freitag]

Well, retaining a private detective is rather expensive. $50 a day plus expenses. That's no small sum.

[Mike Waring]

So we settle up and call it a day.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Yeah, of course, you understand, wearing this in no way implies criticism. It's just.

[Mike Waring]

It's all right, Bannister. Freitag made it clear.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Just so we understand each other. Oh, we're happy to pay for all you've done.

[Mike Waring]

I see. Well, in that case, you deserve a report. You might be interested to know I found out who Rockwell's girlfriend is.

[Hazel Gardner]

So?

[Mike Waring]

So? And I have a date with her tonight. I'm picking her up at her apartment at 8:15. Shall I keep it?

[Gilbert Bannister]

Well, do you think you'll be able to learn anything from her?

[Mike Waring]

Well, Summer, she's taking me to meet Rockwell.

[Hazel Gardner]

To meet Rock. What?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yes.

[Mike Waring]

I kidded her into thinking I was on Rockwell's side. So, chums, do I keep my date, or do you want to leave it to the police?

[Gilbert Bannister]

Well, wearing, we had no idea. I mean, if you're this close, keep on.

[Hazel Gardner]

By all means.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Right, gentlemen?

[Hazel Gardner]

Of course.

[Mike Waring]

Naturally. Oh, well, thanks. I'm overwhelmed by your generosity. Now that I'm a cinched to bring home your 65 grand, you're willing to keep me on the payroll another 50 bucks worth.

[Gilbert Bannister]

I'm sorry if you think we were hasty before Waring. It's just that we can't see throwing money away, that's all.

[Hazel Gardner]

I see.

[Mike Waring]

Well, in that case Summers, next time you play for high stakes, lock the door.

[Rocky Rockwell]

Rocky.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Hello, kid. Let me in.

[Rocky Rockwell]

What? What are you doing here?

[Sergeant Corbett]

I've changed my plans. Shut the door. I don't want anybody to see me.

[Rocky Rockwell]

It's a little late for you to come running to mama, don't you think?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Don't be like that, baby.

[Rocky Rockwell]

How do you expect me to be?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, I'm here. I came back cuz you want. I just want you, that's all.

[Rocky Rockwell]

You sure acted like.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, I was worried I had to make a getaway. But after I left, I got to thinking about you.

[Rocky Rockwell]

I'll bet.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, I'm here, ain't I? The whole town looking for me. I'm risking my neck being here. What more proof do you want? Ah, baby, come here now.

[Rocky Rockwell]

Let go.

[Mike Waring]

Let go.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I can't be without you, baby. I just can't. You don't want me to let go. Here's what you want. That's more like it. Look, I can't hang around here. The law shooter come looking. I got a blow again, baby. Only this time you're going with me.

[Rocky Rockwell]

All right, Rocky.

[Sergeant Corbett]

That's my girl. Now I gotta go see somebody. There's something I've gotta settle. Then I'll be back and we'll make our plans.

[Rocky Rockwell]

Yeah.

[Sergeant Corbett]

So long, sweetheart. I'll be seated.

[Rocky Rockwell]

Goodbye, Rocky.

[Harry Summers]

Hello?

[Rocky Rockwell]

Mr. Waring? Yeah, this is Hazel Gardner. You asked me to call if I had any news for you. Well, I know where you can find Rocky.

[Hazel Gardner]

Where?

[Rocky Rockwell]

At my apartment. He was here just a few minutes ago. He'll be coming back. What's so funny?

[Mike Waring]

I try to bluff and it turns out to be on the level.

[Rocky Rockwell]

What do you mean?

[Mike Waring]

I mean I didn't feel like quitting right when I was expecting a break. Only this isn't the break I expected.

[Rocky Rockwell]

I still don't get it.

[Mike Waring]

Well, I'll be right over to wait for Rockwell to get back and I can explain then.

[Rocky Rockwell]

All right, I'll be waiting.

[Mike Waring]

All right.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Goodbye.

[Rocky Rockwell]

Bye.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Was that on the phone, baby?

[Rocky Rockwell]

Rocky, I didn't hear you come back.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You didn't answer my question.

[Rocky Rockwell]

How long have you been here?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Never Mind. Who are you talking to?

[Rocky Rockwell]

No, nobody. Nobody. Nothing important. Why?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, because like I said, I have something to settle. But I'm beginning to wonder if I'm gonna have to go out to settle it after all.

[Gilbert Bannister]

No, Rocky.

[Rocky Rockwell]

Then go.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Come back here.

[Rocky Rockwell]

Rocky, please.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Who are you talking to?

[Harry Summers]

Who was it?

[Rocky Rockwell]

Rocky, you're hurting me.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Maybe I'm just the gimp.

[Mike Waring]

Ow. Hello?

[Harry Summers]

Is that Hazel Gardner's apart?

[Mike Waring]

Hello, Corbett.

[Harry Summers]

Is that you, Waring?

[Mike Waring]

Uh huh. You want to talk to Hazel?

[Harry Summers]

No, I want to talk to you.

[Mike Waring]

Well, fancy that. How'd you know I was here?

[Harry Summers]

Harry Summers told me you had a date with a girl.

[Mike Waring]

Well, I did. It seems somebody beat me to it. She had a going over.

[Harry Summers]

Ah. She's not dead?

[Mike Waring]

No, but kind of the worse. For where?

[Harry Summers]

Who did it?

[Mike Waring]

I think it was Rockwell, but I'm not sure. She doesn't make much sense yet. That's how come I answer the phone.

[Harry Summers]

Well, see if you can straighten her out and get her over here right away, will you?

[Mike Waring]

Over where?

[Harry Summers]

Hotel Wesland. I'll meet you in Summer's room. I want to talk to the girl and you and the three card players.

[Mike Waring]

Corbett, if they told you I was here, didn't they tell you what I was doing here?

[Gilbert Bannister]

Yeah.

[Harry Summers]

Waiting for Rockwell.

[Mike Waring]

That's right. Don't you want me to wait to see if he shows up?

[Harry Summers]

He's not gonna show up.

[Mike Waring]

How do you know?

[Harry Summers]

Because he's been murdered too. That's why I want to.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Oh, hello, Waring.

[Mike Waring]

Hello, Summers. Sergeant Corbett here?

[Harry Summers]

Yeah, Waring, I'm here. Come in, come in.

[Mike Waring]

Sure. Come on, Adam.

[Rocky Rockwell]

Hi.

[Mike Waring]

You better sit right down there.

[Rocky Rockwell]

Thanks.

[Harry Summers]

All right, Waring. Got any bright ideas?

[Sergeant Corbett]

About what?

[Harry Summers]

The case. You're supposed to be so sharp.

[Mike Waring]

Why, Corbett, you're not asking for my help.

[Harry Summers]

Yeah, I'm asking. This case doesn't make sense, so it ought to be right down your alley. Started out nice and simple. Kress and Rockwell pull a robbery, fight over the take. Rockwell knocks off Kress and scrams. But now somebody knocks off Rockwell.

[Mike Waring]

Well, that's not such a terrific switch, Corbin.

[Harry Summers]

Maybe not, but how about Bannister and Freitag?

[Mike Waring]

What about them? I've been wondering why they're not here.

[Harry Summers]

He's been wondering. They were supposed to have dinner with Summers tonight and didn't show up. They're not in their rooms. No one knows that. They'll be back.

[Mike Waring]

Wait a minute, Corbett. Are you trying to tell me.

[Harry Summers]

Yeah, Waring, Banister and Freytag have disappeared. That's what I'M trying to tell you. Disappear.

[Hazel Gardner]

Miracle Whip has a flavor so pleasing.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Miracle Whip tastes so lively, so teasing.

[Rocky Rockwell]

Miracle Whip only one of its kind.

[Hazel Gardner]

Miracle Whip best salad dressing you'll find Miracle Whip is the only one of its kind because it's a different type of salad dressing. Made from a secret craft recipe, Miracle Whip combines the best qualities of old fashioned boiled dressing and fine mayonnaise. So it's truly distinctive and delicious with a flavor millions of folks call just exactly right. Try it, won't you? One taste will tell you why it's America's favorite salad dressing. The one and only Miracle Whip. Now back to the Adventures of the Falcon. A few minutes have passed since Sergeant Corbett announced that Bannister and Freytag had disappeared. Now in Summers hotel room, Corbett paces the floor while Mike Summers and Hazel watch him. Suddenly he wheels and faces the group.

[Harry Summers]

Hugh. Ms. Gardner?

[Rocky Rockwell]

Yes?

[Harry Summers]

Summers tells me you're Rockwell's girlfriend.

[Gilbert Bannister]

That's what Waring said.

[Mike Waring]

Did you know about Hazel Corbett?

[Harry Summers]

Stop gloating, Waring. I had routine to take care of. I'd have got around to the girl.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, sure.

[Harry Summers]

Ms. Gardner?

[Rocky Rockwell]

Yes?

[Harry Summers]

Why did Rockwell slug you?

[Rocky Rockwell]

Which time? He's done it before.

[Harry Summers]

Oh, I mean today.

[Rocky Rockwell]

He was angry, naturally.

[Harry Summers]

But why? What did you say to him?

[Rocky Rockwell]

When?

[Harry Summers]

Today.

[Rocky Rockwell]

When? Today. We said lots of things.

[Harry Summers]

When he got angry.

[Rocky Rockwell]

Nothing.

[Harry Summers]

You must have said something.

[Rocky Rockwell]

When he gets angry, he does all the talking.

[Harry Summers]

I mean before he got angry.

[Rocky Rockwell]

Oh, you said.

[Harry Summers]

Never mind what I said. Let's take it from the beginning. When Rockwell first came into your apartment today.

[Rocky Rockwell]

Which time?

[Harry Summers]

Oh, no. Forget it. Look, about the murder.

[Rocky Rockwell]

Which murder? Rockies or Cress's?

[Harry Summers]

Rockwell's murder. Waring, stop grinning.

[Mike Waring]

I'm sorry, Corey.

[Rocky Rockwell]

What about Rocky's murder?

[Harry Summers]

I don't know. Skip it. You Summers?

[Mike Waring]

Yes.

[Harry Summers]

You know it. Now What? Waring, see who it is.

[Mike Waring]

Yes, sir. Oh, hello, Bannister.

[Harry Summers]

Bannister. Where in places have you been? Where's Freytag?

[Gilbert Bannister]

Freytag? I don't know. Probably on the same kind of goose chase I've been on. If he isn't here.

[Harry Summers]

What kind of goose chase?

[Gilbert Bannister]

Well, Rockwell called.

[Harry Summers]

What? When?

[Gilbert Bannister]

This afternoon. Asked me to meet him at a downtown hotel and said he'd return our money.

[Harry Summers]

Why didn't you tell somebody?

[Gilbert Bannister]

I didn't dare take the chance. He insisted. Nobody must know. I didn't want to spoil my chance.

[Harry Summers]

Oh, you went alone?

[Mike Waring]

Yes.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Kept waiting till I heard on the radio that Rockwell had been murdered. Then I rushed back here.

[Harry Summers]

Mr. Bannister, you really expect anybody in his right Mind to swallow a yarn like that?

[Mike Waring]

Why not, Corbett? Makes sense to me.

[Harry Summers]

I said in his right mind, Waring.

[Mike Waring]

Well, after all, there must be some reason why Bannister dropped out of sight. This could explain it.

[Harry Summers]

So could his killing Rockwell and hiding the money explain it?

[Mike Waring]

Sure. Except he didn't do that.

[Harry Summers]

How do you know?

[Mike Waring]

Because Summers did.

[Harry Summers]

Huh. You sure?

[Mike Waring]

Well, don't ask me. Try Summers himself. How about it, Summers? Watch him, Corbett.

[Harry Summers]

No, you don't.

[Rocky Rockwell]

Wary.

[Harry Summers]

Yeah.

[Hazel Gardner]

My turn.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, Summers, you're not going anywhere.

[Harry Summers]

Good going, Waring.

[Mike Waring]

Thanks, Corbett. I suppose a flying tackle is illegal. But then so is murder.

[Gilbert Bannister]

So we made a mistake about Chris.

[Mike Waring]

Hey, Waring as Banister. He wasn't the one who was working with Rockwell. It was Summers. But something made Kress suspicious of him. And he followed Summers when he went to Rockwell's for the split.

[Gilbert Bannister]

And when Summers found out Kress had discovered his secret, he killed him.

[Mike Waring]

And Rockwell was suspected of the murder. But he had no part of it. And he came back to prove it. He had some scheme to get the goods on Summers, but Summers caught on and killed him.

[Gilbert Bannister]

I see. And what made you suspect Summers?

[Mike Waring]

Remember I told you I had a date with Rockwell's girlfriend?

[Gilbert Bannister]

Yes.

[Mike Waring]

Well, I didn't mention her name. Just said she was Rockwell's girl. But when Corbett was looking for me, Summers told him to try Hazel's.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Oh, he did?

[Mike Waring]

That meant Summers knew who Rockwell's girl was. So he was connected with Rockwell.

[Gilbert Bannister]

Ah, yes, I see, Waring. But it's still hard to believe about Summers. Seems such a nice chap. Has such an honest face.

[Mike Waring]

Well, that just goes to show there are some things you can't take at their face value. Good night, Bannister.

[Hazel Gardner]

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