The Falcon: TCOT Burning Bridges 06/01/1952

Summary

---

Podcast Summary: "The Falcon: The Case of the Burning Bridges" (06/01/1952)

Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: The Falcon: The Case of the Burning Bridges
Aired: June 1, 1952 (Originally); Podcast released November 20, 2025

---

Overview

This episode of The Falcon presents a tightly woven classic detective mystery set in 1950s New York. Private investigator Mike Waring, known as "The Falcon," is pulled into a perilous case involving rare antiques, deadly double-crosses, murder, and a web of criminal intrigue. At the heart of it all is a priceless artifact— the "Ho Shin Buddha"—allegedly one of only four in existence, with a price tag that hints at far more than its artistic value.

---

Key Discussion Points & Story Breakdown

1. The Setup: The Mysterious Buddha and the Underworld Dealings

• [00:46] - Mike Waring, aka the Falcon, is pulled from his plans by a call to assist a new case.
• [01:11] The story sets its stage in Manhattan’s Chinatown, where George Bridges approaches Paul Kessler’s import shop, seeking to buy the rare "Ho Shin Buddha" and flashing serious cash ($70,000 offered, haggling begins at $250,000).
• The Buddha’s rarity is emphasized (“There are only four in existence. This one was uncovered during the Boxer Rebellion.” – Paul Kessler, [03:40]), but there is suspicion about the deal’s authenticity and a suggestion the Buddha may be used to smuggle something illicit.

2. Suspicion and Intrigue in the Shop

• [03:00–05:20] - Immediate suspicions of forgery and deception arise regarding letters of reference and the Buddha itself.
  • Notable: Kessler and his associate Julian discover that the office intercom was left on, suggesting potential eavesdropping by Joan Calvin.
  • “You left the key on the intercom down.” – Kessler to Julian, [05:09]

3. Joan Calvin’s Fears & Entrance of the Falcon

• [06:00] - Joan Calvin, the firm’s secretary, approaches Mike Waring, deeply troubled, not fully grasping the criminal web but sensing something is wrong after overhearing the Buddha transaction.
• She provides a claim check for a parcel and a photograph of the Buddha, stoking Waring's curiosity and drawing him into the case.

4. The Exchange that Goes Wrong

• [08:00–11:00] - Waring attempts to retrieve the Buddha from Grand Central with Joan’s claim check but is intercepted and held up at gunpoint by Julian, who takes the parcel.
• Waring recognizes Julian from a criminal past (“You were pointed out to me about nine years ago in Detroit, when you were running with the Purple Mob.” – Waring, [10:06]).

5. Double-Cross, Deception, and Murder

• [12:00] - Kessler discovers the Buddha is filled with sugar, not the drugs expected. Both he and Julian suspect they've been double-crossed, bickering over who is responsible.
• [13:31] - Julian confronts Waring in his apartment at gunpoint, but collapses and dies—later determined to be from a stab wound, not Waring’s blow.

6. Police Involvement and Shifting Suspicions

• [15:44] - Sergeant Corbett investigates Julian’s death and grills Waring.
• Key forensic insight: Julian was stabbed with a thin instrument (likely a nail file), and bled internally long before arriving at Waring’s flat.
• The investigation continues with Waring and Corbett each vowing to pursue different leads: “You take care of Julian, I’ll take care of Joan.” – Waring, [16:49]

7. Piecing Together the Motive

• [18:00–20:00] - Waring quizzes Joan, confirming that her employers discouraged normal business and only entertained buyers like George Bridges—whose name ultimately proves key.
• Waring confronts Kessler directly, exposing inconsistencies and establishing that the Buddha relic was valuable only because of its supposed hidden contents.

8. The Big Reveal: Government Agents and Final Showdown

• [22:25–23:00] - Bridges, tracked down by Waring, threatens him with a gun, underscoring the danger, but ultimately is revealed [24:52] by Corbett to be not a gangster, but a Treasury Department narcotics agent, in deep cover.

9. The Solution: Kessler’s Guilt Exposed Through a Crucial Detail

• [26:00–28:13] - In a final confrontation between Waring, Joan, Corbett, and Kessler, a slip about a red tie versus yellow tie on Julian’s body exposes Kessler as the murderer:
  • “You must have some idea [who killed Julian].” – Waring, [27:15]
  • “He was wearing a blue suit with a yellow tie.” – Kessler, [27:25]
  • “He’s lying. He was wearing a red tie.” – Joan Calvin, [27:28]
• The deduction: Only the killer could know which tie Julian wore when he died.

10. Wrap-Up and Reflections

• [28:32–29:34] - Waring explains to Corbett how the set-up was not about trusting Joan but testing Julian.
  • “Kessler substituted Buddhas. Only Julian didn’t know. Before he could find out, Kessler punctured his vanity.” – Waring, [28:48]
• The classic "detective gets the girl" outro is humorously subverted when Waring ends up with Sergeant Corbett instead—until Joan Calvin finally arrives to close out the night.

---

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Quick-witted banter:

  • “Well, it ain't nearly enough, Angel. Since I met you, the most interesting things have happened.” – Mike Waring to Joan, [17:07]
  • “He wound up murdered.” – Waring, explaining Julian’s fate to Bridges, [21:57]
  • “Now, if that ain't a boner, nothing is.” – Sergeant Corbett, on Waring’s romantic luck, [29:01]

• Classic detection logic:

  • “You see, there never was a Wang dynasty.” – Waring, underlining the Buddha scam, [18:51]
  • “According to Bridges, there was $70,000 worth of junk in that Buddha. Now I ask you, would a guy like Kessler trust a girl he hardly knew to pick it up? Why should he?” – Waring, [28:32]
  • “Only the killer could know what tie he was wearing.” – Inference after Kessler’s slip, [27:32]

---

Timestamps for Key Segments

• [01:11] – Bridges enters Kessler’s import shop, Buddha deal begins.
• [06:00] – Joan Calvin brings her suspicions to Mike Waring.
• [09:00] – Julian robs Waring at Grand Central.
• [14:22] – Waring discovers Julian is dead in his apartment.
• [17:03] – Waring questions Joan Calvin about her employers.
• [20:00] – Kessler’s confrontation with Waring at the shop.
• [24:42] – Bridges is unmasked as an undercover Treasury agent by Corbett.
• [27:25] – Slip-up over Julian’s tie exposes Kessler as the killer.
• [28:32–29:34] – Waring breaks down the case; final humorous exchange.

---

Final Thoughts

The Case of the Burning Bridges showcases the hallmarks of Golden Age radio mysteries: snappy dialogue, clever misdirection, and classic hardboiled detective tropes. The episode's plot twists—from double-crosses over smuggled narcotics to the final trick of catching the killer with a simple, overlooked detail—are delivered with crackling wit and period flavor.

For Fans Of: Pulpy noir, razor-sharp one-liners, and old-school detective storytelling, this episode is a model example—with justice served, banter intact, and the satisfying snap of a case brought to a close.

Transcript

[Shopify Announcer]

When it's time to scale your business, it's time for Shopify. Get everything you need to grow the way you want. Like all the way. Stack more sales with the best converting checkout on the planet. Track your cha chings from every channel right in one spot. And turn real time reporting into big time opportunities. Take your business to a whole new level. Switch to Shopify. Start your free trial today.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

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 you for [e-mail].

[Mike Waring]

Hello? Yes, this is the Falcon speaking.

[Paul Kessler]

Oh, Paula.

[Mike Waring]

Now you'll have to cancel me out tonight. I've got to do some antique collecting. Well, I don't like it either, but I have to go through with it if it kills me. Oh, don't give up hope, angel.

[Sergeant Corbett]

It may at that.

[Narrator]

Once again, the National Broadcasting Company brings you the transcribed Adventures of the Falcon starring Les Damon. The Adventures of the Falcon Dedicated to private investigators everywhere. Those hard hitting detectives who like Mike Waring, risk their lives to aid law enforcement agencies. So join him now when the Falcon solves the case of the burning Bridges. It's early afternoon in Manhattan and in New York's Chinatown. A rugged looking gent named George Bridges pushes his way through a mob of Chinese and heads for a small shop. The legend Kessler's Imports is on the store window.

[Joan Calvin]

Yes, sir, can I help you?

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

I don't think so. I'd like to see Mr. Kessler.

[Joan Calvin]

Well, Mr. Kessler doesn't like to be disturbed unless it's very important.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Well, if it isn't. I've traveled 3,000 miles for nothing. My name is George Bridges.

[Joan Calvin]

Well, just a second.

[Robert Julian]

Yeah, what is it, Joan?

[Joan Calvin]

I'm sorry to bother you, Julian, but there's a gentleman out here to see Mr. Kessler. His name is George Bridges.

[Robert Julian]

Never heard of him.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Oh, tell him I'm a friend of Oppenheimer in San Francisco.

[Paul Kessler]

Yes, I heard her, Julian.

[Narrator]

All right, Joan, show the gentleman in.

[Joan Calvin]

If you'll just follow me, please.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

I'd love to.

[Paul Kessler]

Do come in, Mr. Bridges. Thanks, that will be all, John.

[Joan Calvin]

Yes, sir.

[Paul Kessler]

This is a great pleasure. Well, this is my associate, Robert Julian.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Glad to know you.

[Robert Julian]

Likewise.

[Paul Kessler]

Do sit down.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Thanks.

[Paul Kessler]

And what can I do for you?

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

I'm interested in buying the Hoshin Buddha.

[Paul Kessler]

The Hoshin Buddha?

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Yeah, I understood you had one for sale.

[Paul Kessler]

And where do you understand that from?

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Oppenheimer. Oh, he told me to give this to you.

[Paul Kessler]

Dear Kessler, this Will serve to introduce George Bridges. He's interested in completing his collection of Buddhas. Anything you can do for him will be appreciated. Gustav Oppenheimer. Julian, don't we have another letter from Oppenheim on the files?

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Yeah.

[Paul Kessler]

Get it like a good boy.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

What do you think this one is, a forgery?

[Paul Kessler]

It never occurred to me, Mr. Bridges, but now that you mention it, it might bear investigation. Have you got it, Julian?

[Robert Julian]

Yeah.

[Paul Kessler]

What do you think?

[Robert Julian]

Looks okay to me.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Well, now that we've got that settled, let's get down to cases. What do you want for the Hoshin Buddha?

[Paul Kessler]

This presupposes I have one for sale.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Well, if you haven't, I'm wasting my time.

[Paul Kessler]

Just a second, Mr. Bridges. You realize a Hoshin Buddha comes very high. There are only four in existence. This one was uncovered during the Boxer Rebellion.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

All right, never mind the history lesson.

[Paul Kessler]

What's your price? $250,000.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

You must think you're dealing with a chump.

[Paul Kessler]

Perhaps you'd like to see a picture of it. I believe we have.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

I don't have to.

[Robert Julian]

It figures.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

From the size, it couldn't hold more than five kilos of this stuff.

[Paul Kessler]

Pardon?

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Look, Kessler, let's not do any more fencing, huh? I'll pay 70,000.

[Paul Kessler]

You're trying to take advantage of me. You realize what 5 kilos would yield after cutting 70,000?

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Take it or leave it.

[Paul Kessler]

What do you think, Julian?

[Robert Julian]

Take it.

[Paul Kessler]

Very well, Mr. Bridges. I assume you have the money on you.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

I got it at my hotel. When can you make delivery?

[Paul Kessler]

Where are you staying?

[Mike Waring]

At the Brighton.

[Paul Kessler]

Under what name?

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

My own.

[Paul Kessler]

Is that safe?

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Do I tell you how to run your business?

[Paul Kessler]

You're so right. Suppose we make it for tomorrow at 12?

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Okay, I'll see you then.

[Paul Kessler]

Good day, sir.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Nice meeting you, Julian. Yeah.

[Robert Julian]

Friendly guy, ain't he?

[Paul Kessler]

Well, in my lifetime, I've discovered, Julian, that.

[Robert Julian]

What's the matter?

[Paul Kessler]

Something just occurred to me.

[Robert Julian]

You think he's a phony?

[Paul Kessler]

If you step here on the corner, I'd like to show you something.

[Robert Julian]

What's up?

[Paul Kessler]

Take a look at my desk. You notice anything strange?

[Mike Waring]

No.

[Paul Kessler]

Well, you're not very observant, Julian. You left the key on the intercom down.

[Robert Julian]

I what?

[Paul Kessler]

Mm. Who's that Font?

[Robert Julian]

The girl. You think she hurt?

[Paul Kessler]

There's one way to find out. Joan, dear.

[Joan Calvin]

Yes, Mr. Kessler?

[Paul Kessler]

Would you come in here? I have an errand for you.

[Joan Calvin]

Of course.

[Paul Kessler]

She heard.

[Robert Julian]

What are you gonna do?

[Paul Kessler]

I haven't made up my mind, Julian. But when I do, believe me, you'll be the first to know. Well, hello.

[Joan Calvin]

How do you do? I. I'm looking for a Mike Waring.

[Mike Waring]

Well, you couldn't have picked a better place. Come in.

[Joan Calvin]

Thank you.

[Mike Waring]

Sit down, Ms. Sim.

[Paul Kessler]

Oh, I'm sorry.

[Mike Waring]

I don't believe I caught your name.

[Joan Calvin]

It's Calvin. Joan Calvin.

[Paul Kessler]

Try the sofa.

[Joan Calvin]

I don't know if I'm doing the right thing.

[Mike Waring]

Don't be frightened, darling. It is only a man's apartment.

[Joan Calvin]

I didn't mean it that way.

[Mike Waring]

I did. Can I offer you a Smirnoff martini?

[Joan Calvin]

No thanks.

[Mike Waring]

You don't know what you're missing. You see, the vodka in it came.

[Joan Calvin]

Here on business, Mr. Waring.

[Mike Waring]

I see. Well, you can't rule a man out for trying. What's your problem?

[Joan Calvin]

That's just it. I don't know.

[Mike Waring]

Come again?

[Joan Calvin]

Well, you see, I work for an importing firm. And this morning my employer had a conference with a man from San Francisco. I don't know how it happened, but the intercom key was down.

[Mike Waring]

So you couldn't help eavesdropping?

[Joan Calvin]

Well, yes. They were talking about something called the Hoshin Buddha. It dates back to the Wang dynasty. This man was going to buy it for $70,000.

[Mike Waring]

Well what's wrong with that? Art objects come high.

[Joan Calvin]

I know, but I checked with the library and there never was a Wang dynasty.

[Mike Waring]

No wonder it's so rare. What's your employer's name?

[Joan Calvin]

I. I can't tell you. I may be doing him an injustice. Now look angel, please don't press me.

[Mike Waring]

Mr. Waring, what would you have me do?

[Joan Calvin]

Well, right after this gentleman left, my employer called me into his office and gave me this.

[Mike Waring]

Grand Central Claim Department not responsible for Goods left over 30 days.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Mm.

[Mike Waring]

You think this is for the Buddha?

[Joan Calvin]

Uh huh.

[Mike Waring]

Can you describe it for me?

[Joan Calvin]

Oh, I can do better. I've got a picture.

[Mike Waring]

Well, I've seen a million like this in Chinatown.

[Joan Calvin]

Well then why should this one be worth so much money?

[Mike Waring]

I don't know, Angel. Let me have the claim check. Well, where do you live?

[Joan Calvin]

At the Marlborough.

[Mike Waring]

All right, go home and wait. I'll be by as soon as I pick this thing up. Attention please. The Chicago Limited due to arrive at 4:27 will be. Hey buddy. Yeah, what do you want? I'd like to pick up this parcel please.

[Narrator]

4177 leaving for Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, Chicago and points west. Now loading at gate seven.

[Mike Waring]

Have your ticket. Hey, what's taking so long?

[Paul Kessler]

All right, keep this.

[Mike Waring]

I got it.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Now, it's a funny thing. I remember checking this parcel for a guy this morning. You don't look nothing like him.

[Mike Waring]

He sent me to pick it up.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Got any identification?

[Mike Waring]

Sure. Well, let's do.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Michael Waring, 419 East.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Sorry I troubled you, Mr. Waring, but cup of knee rules, you know.

[Mike Waring]

All right.

[Paul Kessler]

Sure.

[Mike Waring]

That's all right. Thanks a lot.

[Narrator]

The Missouri Express, leaving for Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, Chicago and.

[Robert Julian]

Excuse me, Weller. You. You wouldn't happen to have a match?

[Mike Waring]

Yeah, sure.

[Paul Kessler]

Thanks.

[Mike Waring]

It's all right. Keep the book.

[Robert Julian]

You're a real generous type, kid, aren't you?

[Mike Waring]

What?

[Robert Julian]

Maybe I can do something for you.

[Mike Waring]

I doubt it.

[Robert Julian]

You never know. How about a lift?

[Mike Waring]

No, thanks. I'll take a cab.

[Robert Julian]

Come on, fella. You ought to know why I'm keeping this hand in my pocket. Just walk on like nothing happened.

[Mike Waring]

Why? Is something going to?

[Robert Julian]

Well, if you don't behave yourself. Hold it.

[Mike Waring]

Well, make up your mind.

[Robert Julian]

I just came to the conclusion it'd be silly to waltz you all the way through this joint. Let's see what's behind that door.

[Mike Waring]

Can't you read?

[Robert Julian]

Don't get gay. Just pick them up and lay them down.

[Mike Waring]

Okay, Corporal.

[Robert Julian]

Well, nice and quiet here.

[Mike Waring]

Well, I got a feeling it won't be for long.

[Robert Julian]

I got the same feeling. Where'd you get that parcel?

[Mike Waring]

What's it to you?

[Robert Julian]

Look, fella, don't get smart. Just lay it down on the floor. Now back up a couple of steps. Oh, that's fine. Now, tell me something about yourself.

[Mike Waring]

Sure, Julian.

[Robert Julian]

What did you call me?

[Mike Waring]

Julian. Isn't that your name?

[Robert Julian]

How'd you know that?

[Mike Waring]

I got a great memory for faces. You were pointed out to me about nine years ago in Detroit. When you were running with the Purple Mob.

[Robert Julian]

And what do they call you?

[Mike Waring]

Mike Waring.

[Robert Julian]

Where'd you get that claim check?

[Mike Waring]

I found it in the street.

[Robert Julian]

I asked you something and I answered it. Joan Calvin gave it to you, didn't she?

[Mike Waring]

Look, Julian, I think I've been very patient. I don't know what you want.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Get back.

[Mike Waring]

Well, you can't blame a guy for trying. No.

[Robert Julian]

In your place, I'd probably do the same. You see, but then I'm not in your place. And right now I wouldn't change for the world. There's one thing I can't stand, It's a wise guy. That's the story, Kessler. When Joan didn't show up, I got suspicious. Then I saw this character come up and present the check.

[Paul Kessler]

How far away were you, Julian?

[Robert Julian]

Maybe 30ft.

[Paul Kessler]

And from that distance you knew immediately our Little Joni had sent him. That was very bright.

[Robert Julian]

I told you I had a hunch. When he picked up the parcel, I knew I was right.

[Paul Kessler]

How do you suppose Mr. Waring came to have the claim check?

[Robert Julian]

Why don't you ask Joan?

[Paul Kessler]

As I intend to. Unfortunately, she isn't here. Well, shall we see if the gods have been kind to us? The Hoshin Buddha. Isn't it lovely, Julian? It puts me in mind of a poem I once read.

[Robert Julian]

Puts me in mind of our friend George Bridges. He's still waiting, remember?

[Paul Kessler]

Oh, yes. Hand me that paper. Wait.

[Robert Julian]

You gonna open it now?

[Paul Kessler]

Yes. Like you, I'm given two hunches.

[Robert Julian]

What are you talking about?

[Paul Kessler]

Paperweight, please. I was wrong.

[Robert Julian]

What do you expect?

[Paul Kessler]

I thought it might be empty. In any event, I think it needs testing.

[Robert Julian]

Careful. You don't want to take off.

[Paul Kessler]

I don't think there's much danger of that. It's sugar.

[Robert Julian]

It's what?

[Paul Kessler]

See for yourself.

[Robert Julian]

We've been double crossed.

[Paul Kessler]

So it would appear. Now, where do you think it came from?

[Robert Julian]

Could be that Mike Waring.

[Paul Kessler]

I don't see how. Julian, by your own admission, he had no time to make a substitution. When did you say you saw him?

[Robert Julian]

Around 4:30.

[Paul Kessler]

And you didn't get back to the shop till 7.

[Robert Julian]

Was a quarter of.

[Paul Kessler]

It's still two and a quarter hours to be accounted for.

[Robert Julian]

Look, are you accusing me?

[Paul Kessler]

That's the old cliche, Julian. If the shoe fits.

[Robert Julian]

Look, Kessler, I don't have to take that kind of talk.

[Paul Kessler]

Still, $70,000 worth of merchandise has disappeared. It would be most interesting to know what happened to it.

[Robert Julian]

Aren't you forgetting Joan? Suppose she was working with Bridges?

[Paul Kessler]

It's a possibility. Get Oppenheimer on the phone in San Francisco and ask him what he knows of the gentleman.

[Robert Julian]

Ask him yourself. I'm going over to see that Waring character.

[Paul Kessler]

I wish you wouldn't.

[Robert Julian]

Look, I've got as much at stake in this thing as you have. I'm gonna do my own checking.

[Paul Kessler]

Why not wait to hear what Oppenheimer says?

[Robert Julian]

It'll keep you. Just let me know what happens.

[Paul Kessler]

I hope you'll do as much for me. Take care of yourself, Julian. I should hate for anything to happen to you. Oh, I'll never go there again.

[Robert Julian]

I don't blame Juan. Remember me?

[Mike Waring]

How could I ever forget? You made quite an impression.

[Robert Julian]

And I still got the gimmick that did the trick.

[Mike Waring]

You're smoking too much.

[Robert Julian]

Shut the door.

[Mike Waring]

I was hoping I'd seen the last of you.

[Robert Julian]

No, we're Gonna get real chummy.

[Mike Waring]

So now you want some water.

[Robert Julian]

Stay right there.

[Mike Waring]

Maybe if I patted you on the back.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You let go.

[Mike Waring]

Drop it.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Drop it.

[Mike Waring]

Now kick it in the corner. All right. Now you and I are going to have a nice long talk. Come on, Julian, get up. We're just starting.

[Narrator]

I.

[Mike Waring]

Sit. On your feet. Julian.

[Narrator]

Julian.

[Mike Waring]

Hello, Tony. This is Mr. Waring. Look, be a good kid and call the police. I've got a visitor here who won't leave. No, no, no. It wouldn't do any good for you to talk to him. He's dead. I think we'll just have to wait for the cops.

[Narrator]

Can you stop in time? Ask yourself that question the next time you drive your car. If the car in front of you should jam on his brakes to avoid a stray dog, if a child should dash across an intersection, if a tire should blow out, could you stop in time to save a life? Slippery roads, fogged windshields, poor visibility. All of these factors mean that you must be more alert in following simple safety rules. Always get the feel of the road before you accelerate. Check on your driving habits. Be careful. Accidents don't always happen to the other fellow. Now back to the Adventures of the Falcon. 30 minutes have passed since Mike Waring slugged Robert Julian, only to discover that his man couldn't get off the floor. Now there's no question in Sergeant Corbett's mind but that our hero packs a deadly wallop.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, don't be a chump, Corbett. I didn't kill him.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, he was alive when you socked him.

[Mike Waring]

Yes.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Now he's dead. You explain it.

[Mike Waring]

What do you make of this?

[Sergeant Corbett]

The man liked red neckties.

[Mike Waring]

Red shirts too, huh? Look under the tie. Notice the blood clot. Where did it come from?

[Sergeant Corbett]

No, don't touch him.

[Mike Waring]

I just wanted to show you.

[Sergeant Corbett]

He was stabbed.

[Mike Waring]

Uh huh.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Let's see that letter opener.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, don't be a fool. Nothing as wide as a letter opener made this decision. It was probably done by something like a nail file. 5 will get you 10 it happened long before he got here.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well then how did he make it over?

[Mike Waring]

With an internal hemorrhage. He could have lived for hours. He might never even known he was hurt.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You said you ran into him earlier today.

[Mike Waring]

I did. He took that parcel away from me at Grand Central.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well then what was the point of the return engagement?

[Mike Waring]

I don't know.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You suppose your client does?

[Mike Waring]

You mean Joan Calvin?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yes. What do you know about her?

[Mike Waring]

Everything. She looks like she posed for a MO Judd hosiery ad by you.

[Sergeant Corbett]

This Is everything?

[Mike Waring]

Well, isn't it enough?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Not for me. Especially with people getting themselves knocked off in your apartment.

[Mike Waring]

I guess you're right, Corbett. Well, I'll tell you what we'll do. We'll split the assignment two ways. You take care of Julian, I'll take care of Joan.

[Joan Calvin]

I give you my word, Mr. Waring. I've told you all I possibly can.

[Mike Waring]

Well, it ain't nearly enough. Angel. Since I met you, the most interesting things have happened. One, I get slugged as soon as I pick up your package. When I come to, I find the same character again waiting for me in my apartment.

[Joan Calvin]

Well, that's not my fault.

[Mike Waring]

How well did you know Julian?

[Joan Calvin]

I didn't know him at all.

[Mike Waring]

Look, Joan, we're dealing with a murder now. We're not playing games. Who do you work for?

[Joan Calvin]

Paul Kessler.

[Mike Waring]

Did Julian work for him too?

[Joan Calvin]

Yes.

[Mike Waring]

When did you last see him?

[Joan Calvin]

This morning at work, before Mr. Kessler gave me that claim check.

[Mike Waring]

And you haven't seen him since?

[Joan Calvin]

No.

[Mike Waring]

Okay, let's get back to Kessler. How did you get the job?

[Joan Calvin]

I answered Ned.

[Mike Waring]

When was this?

[Joan Calvin]

Oh, about three weeks ago.

[Mike Waring]

Did you notice anything out of line?

[Joan Calvin]

Nothing, except that they seemed to discourage business. Anytime a customer would walk in, they'd. Well, I guess the expression is brush him off.

[Mike Waring]

But there was one customer they didn't slough off. A boy from San Francisco. You heard on the intercom. What was his name?

[Joan Calvin]

I can't remember.

[Mike Waring]

Come on, Joan, think.

[Joan Calvin]

No, I. Wait a minute. Bridges.

[Mike Waring]

Bridges. You remember his first name?

[Joan Calvin]

I think it was George. You think he killed Julian?

[Mike Waring]

We'll cross those bridges when we get to the, uh. Oh, what? I said, after I see Kessler, I'm going home to wash my mouth out with soap.

[Paul Kessler]

I'm terribly sorry, sir. We're closed for the day.

[Mike Waring]

Maybe it'll pay you to open again.

[Paul Kessler]

I hardly think so.

[Mike Waring]

Well, you never know. I might prove the customer of the year. I'm interested in a Buddha.

[Paul Kessler]

Well, there's a shop on the corner.

[Mike Waring]

It doesn't handle this kind. I'm looking for the Ho Shin Buddha. It's supposed to date back to the Wang dynasty.

[Paul Kessler]

Must be extremely rare.

[Mike Waring]

Yes, extremely. You see, there never was a Wang dynasty.

[Paul Kessler]

I'm afraid I don't follow you.

[Mike Waring]

That's because you're 20 miles ahead.

[Paul Kessler]

Won't you sit down, Mr. Waring.

[Mike Waring]

Mike Waring.

[Paul Kessler]

Oh. Well, what can I do for you?

[Mike Waring]

I told you I'm interested in a Ho Chin Buddha.

[Paul Kessler]

But by your own admission, there is no such thing.

[Mike Waring]

Strangely enough, there is. Matter of fact, I had my hands on it earlier today. Only someone took it away. Someone named Robert Julian. You know him?

[Paul Kessler]

Yes, very well.

[Mike Waring]

And you should be interested in learning that he was murdered.

[Paul Kessler]

I beg your pardon?

[Mike Waring]

You should beg his. He was stabbed to death.

[Paul Kessler]

Where did this happen?

[Mike Waring]

That's what I'd like to know. When was the last time you saw him?

[Paul Kessler]

At 2 this afternoon.

[Mike Waring]

He was waiting for me at my apartment at 9. Where do you suppose he was in the meantime?

[Paul Kessler]

I have no idea.

[Mike Waring]

I have. I think he was here.

[Paul Kessler]

You're mistaken, my friend.

[Mike Waring]

Well, that's possible. Happens often enough. By the way, what made that Buddha so valuable?

[Paul Kessler]

I wouldn't know yet.

[Mike Waring]

A girl named Joan Calvin, who worked for you, was supposed to pick it up. She showed me a picture of it.

[Paul Kessler]

She did?

[Mike Waring]

Mm. Yeah. Look like this fellow here.

[Paul Kessler]

Please, don't handle the merchandise.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, I'm so sorry.

[Paul Kessler]

It slipped.

[Mike Waring]

There's nothing in it.

[Paul Kessler]

What did you expect?

[Mike Waring]

Well, I don't know exactly, but you had a customer for it. A man named George Bridges. How does he figure in this?

[Paul Kessler]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but you're a detective.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

That's right.

[Paul Kessler]

Then you should tell me.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Now.

[Mike Waring]

Listen, Kessler, I'm so sorry.

[Paul Kessler]

As I said before, it's past our closing hour. That'll be 498, please.

[Mike Waring]

Huh?

[Paul Kessler]

For the Buddha you just destroyed. When you make a mistake, Mr. Waring, you should be prepared to pay for it. 498. Kessler Imports.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Are you Kessler?

[Paul Kessler]

Yes.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

George Bridges.

[Paul Kessler]

Oh, how are you, Mr. Bridges?

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Not so hot. Your boy didn't show with the merchandise.

[Paul Kessler]

Oh, there's been an unavoidable delay.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Yeah, well, I'm due back on the coast. I got a reservation tomorrow at 8 on the El Capitan. You think he'll be able to deliver before then?

[Paul Kessler]

It's very problematical.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Look, Kessler, there are other dealers in New York. Now, either you want my business or you don't.

[Paul Kessler]

Oh, I do. But you see, Julian met with an unfortunate accident. Poor fellow. He was murdered.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

How'd that happen?

[Paul Kessler]

I have no idea. But I think a man named Michael Wearing does.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Well, how does this Wearing character affect our deal?

[Paul Kessler]

He doesn't. Just be patient, Mr. Bridges. I'll get to you in time.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Come in, fella.

[Mike Waring]

The water's fine, huh? You know, this is the second time this has happened today. Yes. He had a gun too.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

You better change your lock.

[Mike Waring]

You better change your luck. He wound up murdered.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

You must be real tough.

[Mike Waring]

No, not me. I was scared Stiff. What's your name? Or maybe I can guess.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Maybe you can.

[Mike Waring]

And I got a hunch of George Bridges from San Francisco.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

How'd you know that?

[Mike Waring]

I'm psychic.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

What's your interest in this, Waring?

[Mike Waring]

Same as yours.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

No, it isn't. You're doing business with Kessler?

[Mike Waring]

In a manner of speaking.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

And you ought to know I didn't get the Buddha you picked up.

[Mike Waring]

Hey, wait a minute. You look like the guy in the baggage room.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

I look like a lot of people.

[Mike Waring]

Did you notice what happened to me afterwards?

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

No.

[Mike Waring]

I was hijacked.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Where's the Buddha now?

[Mike Waring]

I have no idea.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Can you get me one?

[Mike Waring]

If the price is right, I'll pay 70,000. Tell me something, Bridges. What makes that Buddha so valuable?

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Don't you know?

[Mike Waring]

I got an idea, but I'd like to confirm it.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

You know, Waring, I was right all along. You don't know from nothing.

[Mike Waring]

No, but I'm learning.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Not nearly enough. If you're smart, you'll start minding your own business.

[Mike Waring]

This is my business. A man named Robert Julian was murdered right here. Yeah?

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Well, if you don't want some of the same treatment, you'll stop sticking your neck out. Now, out of my way.

[Mike Waring]

Hey, not so fast.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Are you gonna move?

[Mike Waring]

Put the gun away, Bridges. You wouldn't dare use it. A shot would bring down the house.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

Yes, you're so right. But you forget, a gun has two ends. And under proper conditions, one end is as effective as the other. You see what I mean?

[Narrator]

Unbelievable as it may sound, accidents on the nation's highways in the last 10 years have killed more than 300,000Americans like you and me. What's more, they have injured no fewer than 11 million men, women and children, crippling several million of these victims for life. Help to protect your own life and the lives of your family by driving safely. Work for greater highway safety for yourself and for your family in your own community and state. And whenever you take the wheel of your own car, drive as though your life depends on it. It does. Now back to the Adventures of the Falcon. 30 minutes have passed since Mike entertained George Bridges in his apartment. And this was one Bridges Mike never should have attempted to cross.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Oh, my head. What's the matter, boy? Can't you take it there anymore? You ought to be used to it by now.

[Mike Waring]

What are you doing here, Sergeant?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Your elevator boy found you and gave us a buzz. Well, who did it this time?

[Mike Waring]

The boy who killed Julian, Huh? Now look, Corbett, I've got it all figured out. His name is George Bridges.

[Sergeant Corbett]

George Bridges?

[Paul Kessler]

Yes.

[Mike Waring]

When you latch onto him, we'll be home.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Oh, we will?

[Mike Waring]

Yes.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Why do you suppose he killed Julian?

[Mike Waring]

To get his hands on that boot I told you about.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, for your information, George Bridges happens to be a Treasury agent.

[Mike Waring]

You what?

[Sergeant Corbett]

He's head of the Narcotics division. You had him pegged as a killer. Oh, you're a real bloodhound, Mike. I'm gonna get you a can of Strongheart.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah, but if Bridges was a government boy, what did he want with me?

[Sergeant Corbett]

You know your talent for butting in. You must have wanted to find out if you were mixed up in this deal.

[Mike Waring]

Well, at least I'm making progress.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Oh, you're making progress.

[Mike Waring]

Yep. I know now that Bridges didn't kill Julian.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Oh, you're amazing.

[Mike Waring]

Mm. Let me at that phone.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Who you calling?

[Mike Waring]

My client.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Joan Calvin.

[Mike Waring]

Yes, she can put the finger on the guilty party. If she doesn't lose her nerve. We can wrap this up in 15 minutes. Hello, Joan, this is Mike Waring.

[Joan Calvin]

Oh, so glad you called, Mike. I'm getting frightened.

[Mike Waring]

Now, there's nothing to worry about, angel. We'll have this thing solved in minutes if you'll only cooperate. Now, here's what I want you to do. Grab a cab and go down to Kessler's shop.

[Joan Calvin]

But you told me I was fired.

[Mike Waring]

Well, I've got a new job for you. Now be a good girl and go right to work.

[Paul Kessler]

Just a second, please.

[Joan Calvin]

Mr. Kessler.

[Paul Kessler]

You seem surprised, my dear. Well, I expected someone else. We have told this is my establishment.

[Joan Calvin]

I. I'm afraid I made a mistake.

[Paul Kessler]

You've made several, my dear. Sit down.

[Joan Calvin]

No, I'll come back later.

[Paul Kessler]

I wouldn't think of it. You know, you're a very stupid girl, Joan. What? Really, I've misjudged you completely. Why did you hire Mike waring? Now, look, Mr. Kessler, I'm very interested in your reasoning. Of course, I have my own theory.

[Mike Waring]

And you're probably right.

[Joan Calvin]

My.

[Mike Waring]

Hello, angel. Almost missed my cue, didn't I? Oh, this is Sergeant Corbett.

[Sergeant Corbett]

We interrupting anything?

[Paul Kessler]

No, not at all.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I thought you were asking Joan why she hired Waring.

[Paul Kessler]

It's not too important.

[Mike Waring]

You're not very flattering. She came to me because she was worried and she had reason. She was mixed up with several unsavory characters. One of these characters subsequently got himself murdered.

[Paul Kessler]

Poor Julian.

[Narrator]

Yes.

[Mike Waring]

Well, at least his problems are over. Tell me, who do you think did it?

[Paul Kessler]

I wouldn't know.

[Mike Waring]

You must have some idea.

[Paul Kessler]

I'm afraid not.

[Mike Waring]

You told me the last time you saw Julian was at 2 o' clock this afternoon?

[Paul Kessler]

That's right.

[Mike Waring]

How was he dressed?

[Paul Kessler]

He was wearing a blue suit with a yellow tie.

[Joan Calvin]

He's lying. He was wearing a red tie.

[Mike Waring]

Thanks, angel. I knew you'd be helpful. Okay, Sergeant. What are you waiting for? What are you talking about? Well, don't you see who killed Julian?

[Sergeant Corbett]

No.

[Mike Waring]

Who do you suppose dreamed up this double cross? Who's the smart wheel that made all the little cogs go?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Her?

[Mike Waring]

No. Him.

[Paul Kessler]

Really, Mr. Waring.

[Mike Waring]

No. Really, Mr. Kessler. You did a nice piece of work. This is no time for you to go modest on the people. All right, Sergeant, make like a policeman.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I don't get it. I just don't get it at all.

[Mike Waring]

What's your problem, little man?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Talk about your switches. This is the first time I can remember in this kind of a case where the girl didn't know it.

[Mike Waring]

Well, Kessler was your most obvious suspect.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Proving that the most obvious suspect is guilty can get you barred from the union. Now, what made you latch onto him?

[Mike Waring]

Well, it didn't make sense otherwise. According to bridges, there was $70,000 worth of junk in that Buddha. Now I ask you, would a guy like Kessler trust a girl he hardly knew to pick it up? Why should he? Julian was available. Then it occurred to me this whole thing must have been a test. And Kessler substituted Buddha's.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Only Julian didn't know.

[Mike Waring]

Before he could find out, Kessler punctured his vanity. Now, does that answer all your questions?

[Sergeant Corbett]

All but one. How do you account for the mistake you made?

[Mike Waring]

Where did I make a mistake?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, here there was a beautiful blonde in the case and you wind up the evening with me. Now, if that ain't a boner, nothing is.

[Joan Calvin]

I. I'm so sorry. I hope I haven't kept you waiting.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, what do you know?

[Mike Waring]

You say something, Corbett?

[Sergeant Corbett]

No.

[Mike Waring]

Then I will. Good night, Sergeant.

[Narrator]

The Case of the Dirty Dollar. The Case of the Dirty Dollar. That's the title of next week's Adventure of the Falcon, when Mike Waring learns that some people with money to burn often wind up fried. The Adventures of the Falcon are based on the famous character created by Drexel Drake. Produced and transcribed by Bernard L. Shubert, written today by Eugene Wang and directed by Richard Lewis. Les Damon was starred as the Falcon, with Chuck Webster as Sergeant Corbett. This program came from New York. Howard Reeg SPE.