The Falcon: TCOT Dirty Dollar 06/08/1952

Summary

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Podcast Summary: The Falcon – The Case of the Dirty Dollar

Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: The Falcon: The Case of the Dirty Dollar (06/08/1952)
Date: November 27, 2025
Host: Choice Classic Radio
Featured Characters: Mike Waring (The Falcon), Johnny Stone, Steve Haines, Paul Dollar, Lisa Dollar, Sergeant Corbett, Cokie Myers

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Episode Overview

This episode of Choice Classic Radio Detectives features The Falcon in "The Case of the Dirty Dollar," a quintessentially noir crime drama tracing betrayal, trust, and murder in the underbelly of postwar New York. Mike Waring—a.k.a. The Falcon—claims to be “retired” from the detecting game, but is soon drawn back into the orbit of tough-talking gamblers, love gone wrong, and a deadly frame-up.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Setting the Stage: The Falcon's "Retirement"

• Mike Waring opens, voicing his disillusionment with the PI racket and intention to retire.
• He’s quickly pulled in by Johnny Stone, a bookmaker, who suspects his employee Paul Dollar has stolen $2,568.23.
• Notable Quote ([01:34]):

  "No more playing cops and robbers for me." — The Falcon

2. Confrontation with Paul Dollar

• Johnny Stone and Steve Haines confront Paul and his wife Lisa about the missing money.
• Lisa stands up to Johnny, displaying loyalty and courage, slapping Johnny and telling him to stay away from Paul.
• Notable Quote ([05:04]):

  "How could you hit a man half your size just because he stood up to you? But you're not used to that, are you, Mr. Stone?" — Lisa Dollar

3. Johnny's Fascination with Lisa

• Johnny is intrigued by Lisa’s loyalty and enlists The Falcon to investigate her, wagering cynically that she’s no different from other women Johnny’s met.
• Waring is reluctant but agrees, with Johnny betting all women are out for the same thing.
• Notable Quote ([08:14]):

  "So I believe all women are alike. They're only out for one thing. I'll give you a thousand to one. This Lisa Dollar is no different from the rest." — Johnny Stone

4. Revelations About Paul Dollar

• Waring tells Lisa about Paul’s history of gambling and embezzlement, producing Paul’s IOUs.
• Lisa is devastated by Paul’s betrayal, confirming her worst fears.
• Dramatic Exchange ([10:02]):

  "That's not true." — Lisa Dollar
  "Look, Mrs. Dollar, I've done a little investigating. It's happened before with Paul..." — The Falcon

5. The Fatal Breakdown

• Lisa confronts Paul—he pleads, but Lisa leaves, promising only ambiguously to come back.
• Shortly after, Paul is murdered in his apartment.

6. Murder Investigation: Suspicion and Confession

• Lisa is brought in for questioning. She protests her innocence, but circumstantial evidence weighs against her.
• Johnny Stone is also a suspect due to his prior interest in Lisa.

Sergeant Corbett’s Interrogation ([13:33]):

"Anybody in your place would have been fed up years ago. Your husband was no good." — Sgt. Corbett
"He was weak." — Lisa Dollar

• Steve Haines confesses to the murder, hoping to exonerate Johnny.
• He tries to buy a false witness, Cokie Myers, but Sergeant Corbett quickly disproves the alibi, revealing Cokie was in jail at the relevant time.

7. The Key Clue: The Witness on the Phone

• Waring realizes the murder was reported by Lisa’s friend Trudy—who was on the phone with Paul during the shooting, information known only to the murderer.

• This detail exposes Steve’s guilt, as only the killer or someone close to the case could have known the sequence.

• Notable Exchange ([25:28–25:35]):

  "Don't you see, Corbett? That piece of information wasn't released to the papers. No one but the killer could have known it." — The Falcon

8. Motivation Revealed: Twisted Loyalty

• Steve Haines’s motive is revealed; he idolized Johnny Stone and thought killing Paul would win Lisa for Johnny.
• The Falcon reflects on the irony and tragedy of loyalty perverted by crime.

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Notable Quotes & Moments with Timestamps

• The Falcon's World-Weariness

  "You see people at their worst. Guys who'd stab you in the back for two bits, even with inflation. And sometimes you even feel sorry for some of them." ([07:16]) — The Falcon

• Lisa’s Integrity

  "I've been packing and unpacking them for the last eight years." ([14:18]) — Lisa Dollar (on leaving her husband)

• Sergeant Corbett's Sharpness

  "You were right to retire, Mike. Only your timing was off. You should have done it a week ago." ([22:08]) — Sergeant Corbett

• The Reveal

  "Don't you see, Corbett? That piece of information wasn't released to the papers. No one but the killer could have known it." ([25:28]) — The Falcon

• Steve’s Confused Sacrifice

  "When I saw how you went for Lisa, it came to me. You're not sore, Johnny?" ([25:42]) — Steve Haines
  "No. No, I’m not sore, Steve." ([25:59]) — Johnny Stone

• Closing Irony

  "Isn't that a beautiful hunk of irony? But then, the whole case was loaded with the stuff.” ([26:59]) — The Falcon

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Key Timestamps & Segments

• [01:34] Falcon’s retirement soliloquy and introduction of the criminal cast
• [05:04] Lisa Dollar confronts Johnny Stone and stands up for her husband
• [08:14] Johnny proposes his cynical bet about Lisa's character
• [10:02–10:21] The Falcon shows Lisa the IOUs—her heartbreak is plain
• [13:33–14:30] Lisa is interrogated, and The Falcon enters to clarify facts
• [17:00–19:08] Steve Haines confesses, but his story unravels under scrutiny
• [24:03–25:35] Waring connects the phone call detail to the true murderer, Steve
• [26:24–27:19] The Falcon and Sergeant Corbett reflect on the case's bitter lessons and Waring’s "retirement"

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Tone & Style

Classic hard-boiled radio noir—dialogue is sharp, witty, and filled with chess-like back-and-forth; the ambiance is one of resignation, moral ambiguity, and the city’s dark underpinnings. Lisa’s dignity stands out in contrast to the cynical, world-weary men around her. Steve’s misguided loyalty and The Falcon’s dry detachment drive the story to its ironical resolution.

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For New Listeners

This episode is a perfect primer for the Golden Age detective genre—fast-talking, morally gray, and laced with irony. It highlights a complex web of trust, devotion, and missed connections, all resolved by a keen ear for detail and human nature. While Mike Waring claims retirement, the case proves he—and the noir world—can never really let go of each other.

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Transcript

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[Choice Classic Radio Host]

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].

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Hello? Yes, this is the Falcon speaking. Oh, Lois, I'm glad you called. I will be able to make it tonight. Now you heard right, angel. I've given up being a private detective. I've retired. Yeah, I'm going to learn to take it easy if it kills me.

[Narrator]

Once again, the debentures 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 Dirty Dollar.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

According to the World Almanac, New York is the city of churches. But you'd never guess it from my business. Instead of peace and quiet, all I've known is violence and death. Well, I've had it. No more playing cops and robbers for me. No more dealings with offbeat characters like Johnny Stone and Steve Haines. In case you're curious, those are the two gentlemen getting out of the convertible on Forsyth Street. They're bookmakers.

[Johnny Stone]

Bookies.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Which means they take layoff money. Bets other gamblers are afraid to handle. I guess you might say they live dangerously. Which often makes me wonder how they're going to die.

[Steve Haines]

Listen, Johnny, maybe you better let me handle this. No, I don't like the way you look.

[Johnny Stone]

I don't like it either, Steve, but what can I do?

[Steve Haines]

You know what I mean.

[Johnny Stone]

Supposing I said no? Steve, I'll take care of Mr. Dollar myself.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

This the place?

[Steve Haines]

Yeah.

[Johnny Stone]

Certainly doesn't believe in putting up a front, does he?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

That you, Lisa?

[Paul Dollar]

I was just getting ready.

[Johnny Stone]

What's the matter, Paul?

[Lisa Dollar]

Nothing.

[Paul Dollar]

Nothing. Except this is a surprise. Isn't every day you get to entertain your boss.

[Steve Haines]

I suppose that's true.

[Johnny Stone]

Shut up, Steve.

[Paul Dollar]

Well, say, why don't you. Why don't you sit down?

[Johnny Stone]

No, thanks, Paul. We can't stay long.

[Paul Dollar]

Well, can I get you a drink?

[Lisa Dollar]

Mm.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Mm.

[Paul Dollar]

You sure you wouldn't care for something?

[Johnny Stone]

Now that you mention it, maybe I would. If it's all the same to you. I'll take. How much is it, Steve?

[Steve Haines]

$2,568.23.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Huh?

[Johnny Stone]

Well, that's the way we figured it.

[Paul Dollar]

I don't understand.

[Johnny Stone]

You've got sticky fingers, Paul. Unfortunately, you got them glued to my money.

[Paul Dollar]

Wait, you're wrong. I've worked for you for nine months. Did I ever once get out of line?

[Steve Haines]

There's always a first time.

[Paul Dollar]

I'll give you my word.

[Johnny Stone]

What did you do with them?

[Steve Haines]

I don't know. Johnny. Our friend Mr. Dollar is a student of the racing form. I see you picked Gallant Kid today at Hollywood.

[Johnny Stone]

Is that how it went?

[Paul Dollar]

I was gonna return a Johnny. Honest.

[Johnny Stone]

You never should have taken it in the first place. I trusted you, Paul. I don't let anyone abuse my confidence.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Get up.

[Johnny Stone]

I said get up.

[Sergeant Corbett]

There we go.

[Johnny Stone]

Now, I'll give you 24 hours to make it good. $2,568.23. And I won it to the last penny.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Just a second.

[Steve Haines]

I said just a second.

[Lisa Dollar]

Is Mr. Stone in?

[Steve Haines]

He's asleep.

[Lisa Dollar]

Where is he? In there.

[Steve Haines]

Now look, lady.

[Lisa Dollar]

Get your hands off me.

[Steve Haines]

You nuts? Now get out of here before I.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Hey, what's going on there?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Nothing, Johnny.

[Steve Haines]

Go back to bed. I can handle this.

[Lisa Dollar]

No, you can't. So you are Johnny Stone?

[Johnny Stone]

That's right.

[Lisa Dollar]

Well, this is a great.

[Steve Haines]

Hey, what's the idea?

[Johnny Stone]

I wouldn't do that again.

[Lisa Dollar]

Why would you beat me up too?

[Steve Haines]

Look, sis.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Who are you?

[Lisa Dollar]

Lisa Dollar. Oh, you recognize the name, I believe. My husband works for you.

[Johnny Stone]

We got your tenses wrong. He did work for me.

[Lisa Dollar]

How could you do such a thing? How could you hit a man half your size just because he stood up to you? But you're not used to that, are you, Mr. Stone?

[Narrator]

What?

[Lisa Dollar]

You're used to people falling all over themselves to cooperate in your crooked deals.

[Johnny Stone]

Is that what you think?

[Lisa Dollar]

That's what I know, but you don't frighten me. I've met men like you before. Bullies who always pick on someone weaker.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Listen, sister.

[Johnny Stone]

Shut up, Steve. Anything else you care to say?

[Lisa Dollar]

No, I think I've said enough. You just keep away from Paul. You are never to go near him again. Do you understand?

[Johnny Stone]

I understand you going crazy or something.

[Steve Haines]

Johnny, I. How could you take that? Especially that slap in the puss.

[Johnny Stone]

Forget it.

[Steve Haines]

Forget it. I wouldn't believe it if I didn't see it with my own eyes. That Paul must have really sold her a bill of goods.

[Johnny Stone]

Guess she must trust him. Kind of nice, isn't it, Steve, huh? Being able to believe what someone tells you.

[Steve Haines]

I don't get you.

[Johnny Stone]

It's not important. Did she say her name was Lisa?

[Steve Haines]

Hey, you feel all right?

[Johnny Stone]

I feel fine. Get the car. I'm going out.

[Steve Haines]

Without me?

[Johnny Stone]

Without you?

[Steve Haines]

What's come over you, Johnny?

[Johnny Stone]

I don't know. Maybe I'll have a better idea after I talk to a friend of mine. Now get the car while I change.

[Paul Dollar]

Yes, can I help you?

[Johnny Stone]

Mike Waring around?

[Paul Dollar]

Well, he's kind of busy at the moment.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Where is he?

[Johnny Stone]

In the back.

[Paul Dollar]

Look, mister, he gave me strict orders he wasn't. Hey, come back here. Don't you understand English?

[Johnny Stone]

I said hello, Mike.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Well, if it isn't Johnny Stone was thinking about you today. Must be mental telepathy. Well, I'd ask you to sit down, but you anticipated.

[Johnny Stone]

Drink? No. Don't let that stop you.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

It won't.

[Johnny Stone]

How about doing a little gum shoeing for me?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Haven't you heard, Johnny? I've retired.

[Johnny Stone]

I heard, but I don't believe it.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

It's true. I've had it. I've had much too much.

[Johnny Stone]

What are you talking about?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

This business of being a private dick finally got to me. They told me it would.

[Johnny Stone]

You're not making sense. What are you, 36?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

37? In this racket, you age fast. You see people at their worst. Guys who'd stab you in the back for two bits, even with inflation. And sometimes you even feel sorry for some of them. Especially when you find out what makes them tick.

[Johnny Stone]

You must be bathing in lanolin. Plus, you're getting soft.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

I never claimed to be in your league, but that's the story.

[Johnny Stone]

Now suppose you hear mine.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

I hope it's more interesting.

[Johnny Stone]

I had a boy, Paul Dollar, working for me. He's married to a girl named Lisa.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

So far it ain't.

[Johnny Stone]

I'd like you to find out everything you can about her.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Johnny, you're not receiving me. I told you, I quit. Why don't you get Martin Caine?

[Johnny Stone]

This Lisa seems to be quite a gal. Mike, she slapped me.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

You sound like you enjoyed it.

[Johnny Stone]

I did.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

You better watch yourself, Johnny. You're acting almost human.

[Johnny Stone]

And that would never do.

[Narrator]

Never.

[Johnny Stone]

Well, see what you can find out about it. Look, I told you, I know you're retired, but. Mike, you're a betting man, aren't you?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

So?

[Johnny Stone]

So I believe all women are alike. They're only out for one thing. I'll give you a thousand to one. This Lisa dollar is no different from the rest.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Well, I'd be a sucker to refuse those odds. Okay, Johnny. Keep your checkbook handy. You got yourself a bet.

[Lisa Dollar]

Taxi. Oh, taxi.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, that too, lady.

[Lisa Dollar]

1427. Just a second. I hate to repeat myself. Oh, mister.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Me?

[Lisa Dollar]

Yes. In case you're interested, I'm going home.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Why would I be interested?

[Lisa Dollar]

Well, you must be. You've been following me for days.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Oh, I'm slipping. I guess I was right to retire. Who are you, Mike Waring.

[Lisa Dollar]

And why are you doing this?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Well, let's just say that.

[Cokie Myers]

Hey, will you people make up your mind? Either you want a cab or you don't.

[Johnny Stone]

He's right.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Mind if I join you?

[Johnny Stone]

What?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Well, you want to know why I'm aching like a bird dog?

[Lisa Dollar]

All right.

[Johnny Stone]

Thanks.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Okay, driver, let's head uptown. I'll tell you when to stop.

[Lisa Dollar]

I don't know why I'm doing this. It makes absolutely no sense.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

You're curious.

[Lisa Dollar]

A private detective.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Well, let's say I was a private detective.

[Lisa Dollar]

Was.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Now, skip it. I admit I'm acting like one now.

[Lisa Dollar]

You're working for Johnny Stone, aren't you?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

What makes you say that?

[Lisa Dollar]

Just a feeling I've got.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Well, you're right. Peculiar boy. Johnny. He's very interested in you, Lisa.

[Lisa Dollar]

I'm overwhelmed.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

You should be. Johnny's got a very low opinion of mankind. Guess he's been burned too often. And your husband gave him a hot foot too.

[Lisa Dollar]

What are you talking about?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Why do you think Johnny slapped him around?

[Lisa Dollar]

Because Paul wouldn't cooperate in some crooked gambling scheme.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Paul got his hand caught in a. Till now.

[Lisa Dollar]

Just a moment. That's not true.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Look, Mrs. Dollar, I've done a little investigating. It's happened before with Paul. Once in Des Moines, another time, but that was different. Well, there's one way to convince you.

[Lisa Dollar]

What's that?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Your husband's IOUs. He owes over eight grand around town.

[Lisa Dollar]

How did you get these?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Johnny made them. Good.

[Lisa Dollar]

I told him if it ever happened again, I.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

You'd what?

[Lisa Dollar]

Never mind. I hope your Mr. Stone is pleased with himself.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

No, this wasn't Johnny's idea. He didn't mean to.

[Lisa Dollar]

Driver, will you please stop?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Look, Mrs. Dollard.

[Lisa Dollar]

All right. Now, either you get out or I will.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Okay, angel. Thanks for the ride, anyway. Sorry you didn't enjoy it. Okay, buddy, take the lady.

[Paul Dollar]

That you, Lisa?

[Lisa Dollar]

Yes, Paul.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Where are you?

[Lisa Dollar]

Ben?

[Paul Dollar]

You said you'd be home by 5.

[Lisa Dollar]

I guess I'm undependable. But then, so are you. Why did you do it, Paul?

[Paul Dollar]

Why'd I do what?

[Lisa Dollar]

Lie to me.

[Paul Dollar]

I lied to you.

[Lisa Dollar]

There wasn't a word of truth in that story you told me about Johnny Stone. I made a fool of myself, honey, I swear. Oh, don't deny it, Paul. I saw the IOUs. You've been gambling again.

[Paul Dollar]

Oh, Lisa, I'm no good. I don't know why you put up with me.

[Lisa Dollar]

I'm not going to.

[Sergeant Corbett]

What are you doing?

[Lisa Dollar]

I'm leaving.

[Paul Dollar]

Oh, no, you can't. I won't let you. I swear I'll never do it again.

[Lisa Dollar]

Please. Please get out of my way.

[Paul Dollar]

I know I've said it before, but this time I mean it. I couldn't live without you, Lisa.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Please don't do it.

[Lisa Dollar]

It's no use, Paul. We've played this scene for the last time.

[Paul Dollar]

Just give me one more chance. You won't be sorry.

[Johnny Stone]

Please.

[Paul Dollar]

D. You know how I love you.

[Lisa Dollar]

No, don't. Don't, don't.

[Paul Dollar]

I'll make it up to you. You won't ever regret it.

[Lisa Dollar]

I've got to have time to think it over, Paul.

[Paul Dollar]

But you'll be back. Say you'll be back.

[Lisa Dollar]

Let me go. No.

[Paul Dollar]

Not until you promise.

[Lisa Dollar]

All right, Paul, I promise. One way or the other, I'll be back. Now, let me. Hello?

[Paul Dollar]

Is that you, Trudy?

[Lisa Dollar]

Yes.

[Paul Dollar]

This is Paul Dollar. Is Lisa there?

[Lisa Dollar]

No.

[Paul Dollar]

You gotta tell me the truth. Have you seen her?

[Lisa Dollar]

Well, she was here, Paul, but she went out at 9 o'.

[Johnny Stone]

Clock.

[Paul Dollar]

Did she say where she was going? No, she promised to come home. But it's almost 11 now.

[Lisa Dollar]

Oh, don't worry, Paul. I'm sure she's all right.

[Paul Dollar]

You're lying to me. She is there. No, please, Trudy, let me talk with.

[Cokie Myers]

Talk.

[Lisa Dollar]

What is it, Paul? Paul.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

They say a dollar doesn't go very far these days. Well, this one was going nowhere. Two hours later they had his wife down at headquarters. When I waltzed in, Sergeant Corbett was finishing his pitch. It's a lovely bit of salesmanship.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Now, you've got to understand, Mrs. Dollar, I'm your friend.

[Lisa Dollar]

Thank you.

[Cokie Myers]

I mean it.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I don't blame you at all. Why, anybody in your place would have been fed up years ago. Your husband was no good.

[Lisa Dollar]

He was weak.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, it's the same thing.

[Lisa Dollar]

No, it isn't, Sergeant. Paul meant well. He just couldn't help himself.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, the point is.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

The point is he's trying to trap you, Lisa.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, if it ain't that high flying bird, the fal. I thought you retired.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

I have. I just dropped by the kibbets.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Obviously you know the lady.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Obviously. How they're treating you, Lisin.

[Lisa Dollar]

All right.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Why don't you tell them the truth? We're just getting ready to beat her. When you walked in.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Have you booked her?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yeah. The charge is murder in the first. Now, if she tells the truth, she might get off with 10 to 20.

[Lisa Dollar]

I have. I didn't kill my husband.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You were gonna leave him?

[Lisa Dollar]

No.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Your bags were packed.

[Lisa Dollar]

I've been packing and unpacking them for the last eight years.

[Sergeant Corbett]

And when you got fed up playing mama, you murdered him.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Isn't that a little drastic? She could have divorced him.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Maybe he wouldn't let her.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

For Pete's sake, Corbett.

[Lisa Dollar]

Excuse me, Sergeant. Is it necessary that he stay?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, not if you don't want him, I don't.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Now, look, Mrs. Dollar, I want to help. After all, this is partly my fault.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Come again?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Well, I was the one who told her that Paul was up to his old tricks.

[Sergeant Corbett]

How'd you find that out?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

I was doing a favor for a friend.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Who?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

I'm no name dropper.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You're forgetting something, aren't you? Concealing evidence in a murder case is a little more serious than passing a red light.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

You don't have to tell me that.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I thought maybe it slipped your mind since you retired. Now, who's the guy? And why did he want you to check up on Mrs. Dolly?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

It doesn't have any bearing on this.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Oh, doesn't it? Supplies a whole new motive. Suppose this man was in love with her.

[Lisa Dollar]

That's ridiculous.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You know who he is?

[Lisa Dollar]

Yes. Johnny Stone.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Oh, thanks a heap. Haskell, get a car ready. I want to pick up Johnny Stone.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

You're making a mistake.

[Sergeant Corbett]

When I need your advice, Mr. Waring, I'll come and get it. Now, why don't you find yourself a park bench and wait like Barney Baruc?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Hi, Johnny.

[Johnny Stone]

Oh, Mike, come on in.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Well, I see I got here before Sergeant Corbett.

[Johnny Stone]

Come again?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

He's on his way.

[Johnny Stone]

What are you babbling about?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Well, haven't you heard? Paul Dollar was murdered.

[Johnny Stone]

What's that got to do with me?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Well, this may come as something of a shock, Johnny, but you're a potential suspect. When was the last time you saw Lisa Dollar?

[Johnny Stone]

Why?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Because the police are inclined to think you two might have had a romance cooking.

[Johnny Stone]

Oh, they're crazy. I only saw her that once.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

And that's the time you fell.

[Johnny Stone]

I didn't fall.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

And why did you ask me to check on her?

[Johnny Stone]

Oh, let's just say I was intrigued.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Well, you say it. I wouldn't attempt to sell that to Corbett. Did you kill her husband, Mike?

[Johnny Stone]

Why should I?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Well, you know, human nature. He might have figured she'd never leave Paul as long as he needed her. And that would be forever.

[Johnny Stone]

Well, you know a little about human nature yourself. Do I impress you as the kind of guy who'd let a woman take the rap?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Why not?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

You're late.

[Sergeant Corbett]

How did you get here before me?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

I got connections. I know a motorman on the Lexington Avenue Express.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Taint funny, McGee. All right, Johnny, get your coat.

[Johnny Stone]

Is this a pin?

[Sergeant Corbett]

That's what it is. Now let's shove off.

[Steve Haines]

Well, it's about time.

[Cokie Myers]

Mike.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

It.

[Steve Haines]

Don't move.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

You've blown your cork, Steve.

[Steve Haines]

Just stand still. Okay, sit down.

[Johnny Stone]

Thanks.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

You won't think me nosy if I ask what's the idea?

[Steve Haines]

Just heard the cops picked up Johnny for Paul Dollar's murder.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

And you think I had something to do with it?

[Steve Haines]

No one else knew he was interested in that dame.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

She did.

[Steve Haines]

You're lying.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Okay, have it your way.

[Steve Haines]

I'm gonna. He didn't kill Paul.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Since you seem to know so much, who did?

[Johnny Stone]

Me.

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[Steve Haines]

Well, why don't you say something? Do you want to turn me in?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

How far would I get?

[Steve Haines]

You mean the gun? Forget it.

[Johnny Stone]

Here.

[Steve Haines]

Well, what are we waiting for? Let's go.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Relax. Why did you do it?

[Steve Haines]

What difference does it make?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

We're gonna ask you that. Headquarters.

[Steve Haines]

Okay. I was a lush till I met Johnny. It was 14 years ago. He straightened me out. I swore someday I'd make it up to him.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

And he told you he wanted Paul Dollar knocked off?

[Steve Haines]

He told me nothing of the kind. It was my own idea. I got eyes. I could see he went for Lisa.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

No, I won't wash, Steve. The cops will never buy it.

[Steve Haines]

Why not? I'm handing him a confession.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Yeah, that's just the trouble. An unsubstantiated confession to murder is worthless. There has to be at least one outside piece of evidence linking you to the crime. Is this the same gun?

[Steve Haines]

No, I got rid of the other.

[Johnny Stone]

Where?

[Steve Haines]

Down at Coney Island.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

That's pretty vague.

[Steve Haines]

You couldn't expect me to make a map of the place.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

It's no good, Steve.

[Steve Haines]

I tell you, I killed him.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

I'm still waiting to be convinced.

[Steve Haines]

I shot him twice.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

That was in the papers.

[Sergeant Corbett]

It was a.38.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Likewise.

[Steve Haines]

Look, you gotta believe me. Johnny had nothing. Wait a minute. How would it be if I dug up a witness?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

You mean there was one? Yeah.

[Steve Haines]

Why didn't I think of him before?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Who?

[Steve Haines]

Never you mind. Just set up a date for us at headquarters. I'll meet you there in 20 minutes.

[Paul Dollar]

Oh, hiya, Steve. What's a good word?

[Steve Haines]

Is Cokie Myers around?

[Johnny Stone]

He's in the bag. Thanks.

[Paul Dollar]

What do you want with that crumb, anyway?

[Steve Haines]

Just be a good fella and see we're not bothered.

[Cokie Myers]

Was that you, Doc?

[Steve Haines]

Sorry to disappoint you, Coke.

[Cokie Myers]

Ah, hi, Stevie. If you're looking for more.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

No, I'm looking for you.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yeah?

[Johnny Stone]

Smoke?

[Cokie Myers]

Thanks.

[Steve Haines]

I got a job right down your alley.

[Cokie Myers]

Ah, you better get somebody else, Steve. My nerves are shot.

[Steve Haines]

It'll pay a hundred bucks, right? One hundred clams. You could do a lot with that kind of dough.

[Cokie Myers]

No, no, it's no use. I'm sick. If you could hold off a couple of days.

[Steve Haines]

Suppose I made it two bills.

[Cokie Myers]

When would I get it?

[Steve Haines]

Right now.

[Cokie Myers]

I guess I ain't so sick after all. Start counting out, fella. You just got yourself a boy.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Hi, Sergeant. Huh?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Oh, what did I do to deserve this?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Nothing. That's why you should be grateful. Steve, come on in here and bring your friend with you.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Come on, Cokie.

[Steve Haines]

Yeah, right, Steve.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Hey, does this look like the Y? Why don't you find some other place to hang out?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Quiet. Steve Haines. Cokie Myers, Sergeant Corbett.

[Steve Haines]

Glad to know you.

[Cokie Myers]

Hi.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Haven't we met before?

[Steve Haines]

It's possible. I work for Johnny Stone.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Oh, can I see him?

[Sergeant Corbett]

His lawyer sprung him 20 minutes ago.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

That's swell.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You'll be back.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

I wouldn't make book on it. I got Paul Dollar's murderer right here.

[Paul Dollar]

You what?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Okay, Steve, that's your cue.

[Steve Haines]

I did it, Sergeant. I killed Paul.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Why?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Well, now, hold it. Don't you think we ought to have a stenographer in here?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Why waste his time?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Look, lunkhead, this isn't a rib. We've got everything, including a witness. All right, Coke, tell him what you told me.

[Cokie Myers]

Hey, Ham, where do you want me to start?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Right at the top of the page.

[Cokie Myers]

Well, last night around 10:30, Steve here came to see me. It seemed he wanted somebody to drive him.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

So.

[Cokie Myers]

So we took his car and I ran over to Forsyth Street. He got out and he told me to keep the motor running. About five minutes later he was back. There was a gun in his pocket.

[Sergeant Corbett]

How do you know that?

[Cokie Myers]

Because while we drove down to Coney island, he got a screwdriver and took it apart. Then what? Well, we parked in front of Steeplechase and walked down the beach.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Never mind the rest. Let me congratulate you boys. That's a lovely story. If you put it to music, you might have another South Pacific.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Why, what's the matter? Don't you believe it?

[Sergeant Corbett]

No.

[Steve Haines]

I tell you, I killed him.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Sergeant Cokey's your witness. Yes. How much did you pay him?

[Cokie Myers]

I resent that.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You don't remember things so well, do you, Cokie?

[Cokie Myers]

I get by.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, what time did you get to Paul Dollar's place on foreside?

[Cokie Myers]

Around 5 minutes of 11.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well then how do you account for the fact that at 9:30 last night a Cokie Myers was picked up for vagrancy on Chambers street and wasn't released till one in the morning?

[Johnny Stone]

Oh no.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Oh yes. You were right to retire, Mike. Only your timing was off. You should have done it a week ago. Now all you phonies clear out.

[Narrator]

Now back to the Adventures of the Falcon.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Well, there were no two ways about it. The Falcon had done it again. After Sergeant Corbett unveiled his haymaker, I watched him toss Steve Haines and Cokie Myers out of the office. His footwork was beautiful. Then he turned on me, but I jabbed him off balance. I demanded to see Lisa Dollar. I always say if you're short on brains, gall does just as well.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Oh, I don't know why I'm doing this.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Because you love me.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yeah, your regular store bought doll. Haven't you got it through your thick skull what this is?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Suppose you tell me.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Another Snyder Gray case. The two of them teamed up together to murder her husband.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Oh, you're crazy. Johnny only saw once.

[Sergeant Corbett]

That was enough. Mrs. Dowler?

[Lisa Dollar]

Yes?

[Sergeant Corbett]

You've got company.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Hello, Lisin.

[Lisa Dollar]

I don't want to appear ungracious, Mr.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Waring, but you could do without me.

[Lisa Dollar]

Exactly.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Now you've got to believe I've been trying to act in your best interests.

[Lisa Dollar]

Why? You are not being paid.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

And that's just the way I wanted. It doesn't jeopardize my retirement status. Did your husband have any other enemies?

[Lisa Dollar]

No.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

You sure? He'd embezzled before and we'd always made the loss.

[Lisa Dollar]

Good. I'll do it this time too.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I don't see how.

[Lisa Dollar]

I'll manage it some way. I told Mr. Stone he wouldn't lose a penny.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

You told Johnny that when?

[Lisa Dollar]

Right after I discovered Paul had lied to me.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yeah, What'd I tell you? She's been singing him all along.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Do you remember the time, Lisa?

[Lisa Dollar]

Yes, it was 9 o'. Clock. The clock was striking when I left Trudy's apartment.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Who's Trudy?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Her girlfriend. The one who reported the murder.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

But how could she. Hey, wait a second. I see it now. Let's go, Corbett. Where? Don't worry. I'll lead you there by the hand. Don't go away, Lisa. I'll be back for you real soon.

[Johnny Stone]

Hello, Steve.

[Steve Haines]

Oh, hi, Mike. Sergeant.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Hi, Johnny Holm. Oh. Mind if we wait?

[Steve Haines]

What do you want with him?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Oh, I just dreamed up a couple more questions I'd like to ask him about Paul Dollar's murder.

[Steve Haines]

I tell you, I did it.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Oh, no.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Let's not have that again.

[Steve Haines]

All right, so I got Cokie to perjure himself. But there was nothing else I could do. You wouldn't believe me.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Maybe Trudy could help you out.

[Steve Haines]

Who?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

The girl Paul was talking to when he was killed.

[Steve Haines]

It was no girl. Oh, you mean on the phone?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Haven't we had enough of this nonsense?

[Steve Haines]

Must be Johnny now. Hi, pal.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

What's going on here? You're just in time to offer congratulations. Steve finally made it. Made what? The chair. And he did it the hard way. What are you babbling about, Corbett? Who reported Paul's murder? I told you.

[Sergeant Corbett]

A girl named Trudy Bergner.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Well, if she didn't live in the same building, she must have heard the shots on the phone.

[Steve Haines]

That's what I said.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Don't you see, Corbett? That piece of information wasn't released to the papers. No one but the killer could have known it.

[Steve Haines]

Why didn't I think of that before?

[Johnny Stone]

Steve, you crazy fool. Why did you do it?

[Steve Haines]

I always wanted to do something for you. You know, to make up for all the swell things you did for me. When I saw how you went for Lisa, it came to me. You're not sore, Johnny?

[Johnny Stone]

No. No, I'm not sore, Steve.

[Steve Haines]

And everything worked out fine. All right, fellas, let's Tell me something, Mike.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Just between us girls, you were kind of lucky, weren't you?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

No. I told you right at the beginning Steve was our boy. I figured if he was willing to confess to murder for Johnny, he might very well have gone whole hog and committed it. I still don't see it. Well, what's so hard? Johnny was Steve's God. All his life he's wanted to prove his devotion. When he thought Johnny wanted Lisa, he.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Tried to get her for him. Even though it meant killing her husband?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

That's right.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You think he's crazy?

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

What do you think?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, he certainly was sane when he planned that killing. He covered his tracks so well that when he confessed to save Johnny, he couldn't prove it.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Isn't that a beautiful hunk of irony? But then, the whole case was loaded with the stuff. You think Johnny wanted Lisa, but didn't he? No, I doubt it. I think he just admired it.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Giveaway.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

You're wrong.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I know human nature. He won't stay away from her. No more than you could Quit this racket.

[The Falcon (Mike Waring)]

Don't you kid yourself. I have.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Maybe so, but I'll lay 8 to 5 I see you next week. Good night, Mike.