The Falcon - TCOT Gorgeous Greek 08/17/1952

Summary

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Podcast Summary

The Falcon – The Case of the Gorgeous Greek (08/17/1952)

Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Host: Choice Classic Radio
Episode: The Falcon - The Case of the Gorgeous Greek
Original Air Date: August 17, 1952
Summary by: Podcast Summarizer

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Main Theme & Purpose

This episode of The Falcon delivers an intricate tale of espionage, betrayal, and murder, set in postwar Greece. Private detective Mike Waring, a.k.a. "The Falcon," is drawn into a web of Communist intrigue involving love, divided loyalties, and cold-blooded murder. The story explores the tension between personal affection and political allegiance, ultimately revealing how commitment to a cause can destroy even the closest familial bonds.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

1. Introduction to the Case (00:17–01:12)

• Mike Waring is called to Athens by Army Intelligence; he's told a dangerous marksman is after him.
  • Quote:
    "Army intelligence is flying me to Athens, Greece... they figure I'll give him something to shoot at."
    —Mike Waring (00:18)

2. Setting the Political Stage (01:12–03:15)

• Theodorus Gunario, a sly Greek Communist, meets Nicholas Venizelos, party leader in Greece. Gunario hints at internal party politics, suggesting Nicholas only holds power due to family connections.
• Iris Richards, an Englishwoman and fellow Communist, becomes a point of tension—her affections for George Venizelos (Nicholas' brother) conflict with her party obligations.

3. Conflicting Loyalties & Party Orders (03:15–07:06)

• Nicholas demands Iris abandon George for the sake of discipline. Iris resists, torn between love and duty.
  • Quote:
    "If Comrade Richards hasn't enough self-discipline to give him up, we'll have to do it for her. Get rid of him."
    —Nicholas Venizelos (03:08)

4. Breakup Under Duress (07:29–09:15)

• Iris, under Nicholas's pressure, pretends to break up with George, giving a cold, calculated speech to protect him.
  • Quote:
    "Get this and get it straight, Mr. Venizelas. You never meant a thing in my young life."
    —Iris Richards (09:02)

5. The Fatal Mistake (09:45–13:17)

• Gunario mistakenly calls George, thinking it's Nicholas, and recklessly mentions confidential party matters.
• George realizes he's stumbled onto critical information about the party's leadership.
• He calls Mike Waring, offering to expose the Communist leader in Athens.

6. Deadly Double-Cross (13:47–15:14)

• A man posing as Mike Waring ("Eddie Welch") visits George, who is subsequently murdered before revealing what he knows to Waring.

7. Investigation Begins (15:15–19:10)

• The police, with Waring, question Nicholas and suspect political motives.
• Waring investigates Iris, hoping to learn more about George, but Iris denies knowing anything. Her emotional response suggests hidden feelings.
  • Quote:
    "Why did you give him up, Iris? Did Nicholas have anything to do with it?"
    —Mike Waring (19:04)

8. Unraveling the Plot (20:30–22:38)

• Gunario reveals to Nicholas that he mistakenly divulged sensitive information to George.
• The connection tightens: George's knowledge of party secrets cost him his life.

9. Showdown With the Assassin (21:23–23:05)

• Eddie Welch, a hitman for the Communist Party, tries to kill Waring but is poisoned himself—a double cross by his own bosses.
  • Quote:
    "You've been poisoned. The dirty louse... Who sent you around here?"
    —Mike Waring (22:38)

10. Final Confrontation (25:28–27:37)

• Iris, armed and emboldened by grief, confronts Nicholas and demands justice.
• Waring exposes Nicholas as the communist leader and the one responsible for his brother’s murder.
  • Quote:
    "When it came to a showdown between his brother and the party, George didn't have a chance."
    —Mike Waring (28:27)

11. Resolution & Reflection (28:08–29:00)

• Lieutenant Kumandores ponders the familial tragedy.
• Waring delivers a final, pointed reflection on misplaced loyalty and the personal cost of fanatic devotion.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Appearances:
  "The boy who first gave out with the line ‘appearances can be deceiving’ had something there—as a case in point."
  —Mike Waring (01:12)

• On Love vs. Duty:
  "She is to give up this man at once."
  —Nicholas Venizelos (03:03)

  "You order me? ... Oh, you've got the wrong girl."
  —Iris Richards (05:55)

• Betrayal Realized:
  "Suppose I told you that the number one man is right here in Athens. What would you say to that?"
  —George Venizelos to Mike Waring (11:21)

• On Murder and Ideology:
  "His first love was the Communist party. And anything that threatened it was his enemy."
  —Mike Waring (28:27)

• Final Reflection:
  "Romancing a woman can sometimes lead to trouble. But having an affair with the Communist Party is just asking for murder."
  —Mike Waring (28:38)

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Important Segment Timestamps

• Setting the Stage: 00:17–01:12
• First Revelations of Intrigue: 01:12–03:15
• Party Orders, Iris’s Dilemma: 03:15–07:06
• Breakup and Emotional Fallout: 07:29–09:15
• Fatal Mistake, Gunario’s Call: 09:45–13:17
• George’s Murder: 12:06–15:14
• Waring’s Investigation: 15:15–19:10
• The Confession and Assassin’s Fate: 20:30–23:05
• Poisoned Assassin: 23:43–24:40
• Iris Takes Charge, Truth Revealed: 25:28–27:37
• Closing Reflection: 28:08–29:01

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Tone & Style

The episode features snappy noir dialogue, dark humor, and stoic narration. Waring’s cynical, wisecracking style is counterbalanced by the earnest, sometimes melodramatic pleas of other characters, particularly Iris and Nicholas. Many lines are delivered with a combination of world-weariness and sardonic wit, typical of hardboiled detective fiction from radio’s Golden Age.

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Takeaways

• Even the strongest familial ties can be undone by absolute political ideology.
• Love and loyalty are tested—and often destroyed—by the pursuit of power and the secrecy required in espionage.
• The Falcon’s dogged investigation and clever deduction expose not only a killer but the pitfalls of blind devotion to a cause.

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Those seeking a classic blend of espionage, tragedy, and hard-edged detective wit will find “The Case of the Gorgeous Greek” a compelling snapshot of postwar anxieties in radio drama form.

Transcript

[Narrator]

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 Falkland speaking. Oh, Twilight. I'm glad you called. I'll have to have a rain check. Ain't home. Army intelligence is flying me to Athens, Greece. Yeah, Seems some boy over there is proud of his marksmanship. And they figure I'll give him something to shoot at.

[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 gorgeous Greek.

[Mike Waring]

The boy who first gave out with the line appearances can be deceiving. Had something there as a case in point. I'd like you to meet Theodorus Gunnario. Monsieur Gonario is a chubby little character who just walked into the Cafe Olympia in ath. To look at him as he makes his way to a table in the corner, you'd think here was a man who wouldn't hurt a fly.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

And you'd be right.

[Mike Waring]

Which puts the local flies away ahead of his fellow men.

[Theodorus Gunario]

Ah, Nicholas, my good friend. It's great pleasure for to see you.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Unfortunately, I can't say the same. You know this isn't wise, Genario.

[Mike Waring]

Suppose the police see us together.

[Theodorus Gunario]

So, who else knows? Nicholas Venizelos is number one man in Communist party in all Greece.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

A position you obviously feel much better qualified to hold.

[Theodorus Gunario]

You are wrong, Nicholas. I think you are best meant for job. I once tell Comrade Molotov, if it can help the party, Nicholas Venizelus would cut off his hand up to here.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Never mind. Canalio. Did you see Iris Richards?

[Theodorus Gunario]

Oh, yes, we have a very nice thought.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

She knows why she was brought to Athens, of course.

[Theodorus Gunario]

Forced to become good friends with General Giuliani.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Well, our Bulgarian comrades would like to know why they weren't advised that Greece would defend the island of Gama from their attack.

[Theodorus Gunario]

They find out different, huh?

[Nicholas Venizelos]

The situation seems to afford you some amusement.

[Theodorus Gunario]

Well, after all, I am Greek. So am I. Oh, it's different for you, Nicholas. Your whole family is living in England for a long time.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

I'm still a Greek. But I'm a communist first. Why didn't Iris inform us of General Dignani's plans?

[Theodorus Gunario]

How did she know when she has not seen him?

[Mike Waring]

Why not?

[Nicholas Venizelos]

He was Interested in us, yes.

[Theodorus Gunario]

But she's not interested in him. What? You must not be too hard on girl, Nicholas. But she is in love.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

That isn't funny, Canarion.

[Theodorus Gunario]

No, it's very sad. But love is feeling very difficult to control.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

She is to give up this man at once.

[Theodorus Gunario]

I say this to her, but she finds it very hard.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Well, if Comrade Richards hasn't enough self discipline to give him up, we'll have to do it for her. Get rid of him.

[Theodorus Gunario]

Get rid of him.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

You seem to take a strange delight in misunderstanding Meganario.

[Theodorus Gunario]

You don't understand, Nicholas. To get rid of this young man is very difficult problem. This is not boy. We can drop in Mediterranean and nobody will ask questions.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

I don't care who he is. I want it done.

[Theodorus Gunario]

Then maybe you do it yourself. You have best chance.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

What are you talking about?

[Theodorus Gunario]

This young fellow Iris fall in love with your brother. Torch.

[Mike Waring]

What?

[Theodorus Gunario]

Oh, she's real crazy for him, Nicholas.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

You're lying.

[Theodorus Gunario]

It's easy enough to find out. Why don't you ask Iris?

[Mike Waring]

I will.

[Theodorus Gunario]

Oh, I'm so happy.

[Mike Waring]

Imagine.

[Theodorus Gunario]

Five years I know you and this is first idea you take from Gonario. Maybe someday I give you some more.

[Iris Richards]

Just a second.

[Mike Waring]

Iris Richards?

[Iris Richards]

That's right.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

I wonder if you could spare me a few minutes.

[Mike Waring]

I'm Nicholas Vanessalos.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Oh, obviously you're familiar with the name.

[Iris Richards]

Obviously. Come in.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Thank you.

[Mike Waring]

Very lovely.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Sweet.

[Iris Richards]

I like it. All right, Mr. Venizelos, let's get on with it.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Pardon?

[Iris Richards]

You came here for a reason.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Naturally. I understand you're in love with my brother George.

[Iris Richards]

Where do you understand that from?

[Nicholas Venizelos]

The usual reliable source. Have I been misinformed?

[Iris Richards]

No.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

You care a great deal for him.

[Iris Richards]

More than anything else in the world.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

You know, oddly enough, I believe you.

[Iris Richards]

I'm overwhelmed.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

I'd like to tell you a little about our family.

[Mike Waring]

Don't bother.

[Iris Richards]

George has already briefed me. Why don't you leave him alone?

[Nicholas Venizelos]

You must understand, Iris. My brother is very young.

[Iris Richards]

He's 29.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

He's still a child in many ways.

[Iris Richards]

Maybe that's because you never gave him a chance to grow up.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Perhaps I should explain. I'm very fond of George.

[Iris Richards]

And he hates you.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

That's not true.

[Iris Richards]

You better Open your eyes, Mr. Venizelos. He can't stand you. You've interfered with everything in his life.

[Mike Waring]

Someone had to.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

This situation proves it.

[Iris Richards]

Meaning I'm not good enough for him?

[Nicholas Venizelos]

If you prefer to believe that, that's your privilege. But I order you to give him up.

[Mike Waring]

You order me yes.

[Iris Richards]

Oh, you've got the wrong girl.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

On the contrary, I've got the right one. Does George know you're a common form agent?

[Iris Richards]

What?

[Nicholas Venizelos]

That you're in Greece on Party business? Yep.

[Iris Richards]

You're crazy.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Your contact here is Theodora's Ganario.

[Iris Richards]

Why, you. You're a comrade yourself.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

My Party card bears the name of Paul Papalus.

[Mike Waring]

You're.

[Iris Richards]

You're Papalos?

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Yes.

[Iris Richards]

Oh, but I had no idea.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Naturally, Gunario is the only one in Greece who knows. The party is outlawed here.

[Iris Richards]

Please, comrade, may I say something? No, but I'd like to explain.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

You couldn't possibly. You were sent here on an important mission. To date, you have betrayed that trust. I feel my brother is responsible. You are never to see him again. Is that understood? I ask you something, Iris.

[Iris Richards]

What can I tell him?

[Nicholas Venizelos]

That you were just using him to pass the time of day?

[Iris Richards]

No. No, I. I can't do it.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

And I say you will. Good day, comrade. I know I can depend on you to fulfill your obligations.

[George Venizelos]

I guess we better start looking for a parking place.

[Mike Waring]

Iris.

[Iris Richards]

What?

[George Venizelos]

Well, I'd love to drive you right into the Acropolis, but unfortunately the road hasn't been paved since 500 B.C. shall we get out?

[Iris Richards]

Wait a minute, George. There's something I want to tell you.

[George Venizelos]

Now, darling, I'm sure it's not that serious.

[Iris Richards]

Yes, it is. I'm not seeing you anymore. I'm not clowning, George.

[George Venizelos]

All right, dear. I give up. What's the joke?

[Iris Richards]

It's no joke.

[George Venizelos]

But you couldn't possibly mean that.

[Iris Richards]

Couldn't I?

[George Venizelos]

No. You're in love with me.

[Iris Richards]

Well, of all the conceited, egotistical males. What have you got that makes you think you're so special?

[George Venizelos]

I never claimed I was.

[Iris Richards]

No, but your attitude shows it. Sure, you may be hot stuff here in Greece, but I come from a big country, honey. Guys like you are a dime a dozen on every street corner.

[George Venizelos]

You don't mean that, Iris.

[Iris Richards]

You want to bet? But you told me I never had it so good. You didn't believe me, did you?

[George Venizelos]

Yes, I did.

[Iris Richards]

You poor SAP. I guess your brother was right.

[George Venizelos]

My brother?

[Mike Waring]

Well.

[Iris Richards]

Well, didn't you tell me that he said you needed a nursemaid?

[George Venizelos]

Has Nicholas been up to see you?

[Iris Richards]

No.

[George Venizelos]

You're lying.

[Iris Richards]

All right, so I am. Yeah. Yeah, he was up to see me.

[George Venizelos]

What did he say?

[Iris Richards]

Well, it wasn't what he said, sweetie. It was what he did. He gave me a cheque for 20,000 drachmas.

[George Venizelos]

You didn't take it.

[Iris Richards]

Now, baby, be Reasonable. A girl's got to look out for herself.

[George Venizelos]

You can't mean that, Iris.

[Iris Richards]

For heaven's sake. What does it take to convince you? Maybe I should have made a tape recording of the dialogue. Get this and get it straight, Mr. Venizelas. You never meant a thing. In my young life. You couldn't possibly. And stop irising me. I know my name. I've had it long enough.

[Mike Waring]

Now will you.

[Iris Richards]

Will you take me back to the hotel?

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

Oh, good evening, Mr. George.

[Mike Waring]

Good evening, Paul.

[George Venizelos]

Is my brother Helm?

[Nicholas Venizelos]

No sir.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

He went out right after dinner.

[George Venizelos]

Have you any idea where I can find him?

[Mike Waring]

I'm afraid not, sir.

[George Venizelos]

Well, did he say anything about or shall I. No, no. Island.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

Hello.

[Mike Waring]

Hello.

[Theodorus Gunario]

Is this Venus? Yes, this is Gunario. How are you, my friend?

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Who?

[Theodorus Gunario]

Theodores Gunario.

[George Venizelos]

Oh, well, you have.

[Theodorus Gunario]

I just see Comrad.

[Mike Waring]

Iris.

[Theodorus Gunario]

I understand. Everything is work out fine.

[George Venizelos]

What did you say? What's the matter? You can't talk now? No, no. Just a moment.

[Mike Waring]

Paul. Yes, Mr. George?

[George Venizelos]

Would you mind leaving me alone?

[Mike Waring]

Not at all, sir. Thank you.

[George Venizelos]

I'm sorry, Gunnario.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

What were you saying?

[Mike Waring]

It's not too important.

[Theodorus Gunario]

I just called to congratulate you. I see now Moscow is right.

[George Venizelos]

Moscow?

[Theodorus Gunario]

When they make you head of party in Greece instead of me.

[George Venizelos]

Head of the party?

[Theodorus Gunario]

What's the matter, Nicholas? You don't seem to understand me.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

It's.

[George Venizelos]

It's just that I've been asleep and I'm still rather groggy.

[Theodorus Gunario]

Oh, I'm sorry. It's better I don't call.

[George Venizelos]

Huh? Oh, I'd. I'd never forgive myself if I missed this. Now if you'll excuse me, Gunnario, I'll hang up. I've got one or two calls of my own I'd like to make.

[Narrator]

Hello.

[George Venizelos]

Have I the pleasure of speaking with Mr. Michael Waring?

[Mike Waring]

If that's your idea of pleasure. Who is this?

[George Venizelos]

I'm afraid my name won't mean much to you. It's George Venizelos.

[Mike Waring]

George Venizelus?

[George Venizelos]

Yes. Your embassy suggested I get in touch with you.

[Mike Waring]

What can I do for you?

[George Venizelos]

I believe the shoe is on the other foot. I'd like to do something for you. You're aware that the Communist Party is outlawed in Greece?

[Mike Waring]

Yes.

[George Venizelos]

Well, suppose I told you that the number one man is right here in Athens. What would you say to that?

[Mike Waring]

Well, the first thing I'd say is what's his name?

[George Venizelos]

I take it then you're interested?

[Mike Waring]

Interested is hardly the word.

[George Venizelos]

Well, I live at 14 tricoopes.

[Mike Waring]

Tricoopes that's the street right near the monument to Byron, isn't it?

[George Venizelos]

That's the one. Can I expect you at 10?

[Mike Waring]

You wouldn't want to make it earlier.

[George Venizelos]

Try to be patient, Mr. Wedding. After all, you chaps have been looking for this fellow for years. A few hours more or less shouldn't matter. I'll see you at 10.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

Mr.

[George Venizelos]

Wedding?

[Mike Waring]

That's right.

[George Venizelos]

In just a moment.

[Mike Waring]

Come in.

[George Venizelos]

I'm George Venizelos.

[Mike Waring]

I figured as much.

[George Venizelos]

Then may I take your coat?

[Mike Waring]

Don't bother. I don't think I'll be staying long.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Cigarette?

[Mike Waring]

I'll stick to my own brand, if you don't mind.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Thanks.

[George Venizelos]

Funny, you look nothing like I had imagined.

[Mike Waring]

Does anybody?

[George Venizelos]

Well, I only meant. When I was in the States some years back, I heard a great deal about the Falcon. I rather fancied he'd be tall and lean.

[Mike Waring]

Maybe I'm not the Falcon. Then what? That's right. I'm not Mike Waring.

[George Venizelos]

Then who are you?

[Mike Waring]

Eddie Welch.

[George Venizelos]

Eddie Welch?

[Mike Waring]

Did Waring send me? Perish forbidden I'm here strictly on my own. Let this be a lesson to you, Georgie. Next time you make a phone call, make sure it don't go through a hotel switchboard. It's like a radio show. You never can tell who's listening.

[Narrator]

On the highway, speed is the number one killer. It takes more than half of the lives lost in traffic accidents in many states. Last year, speeding drivers caused 15,000 deaths in the United States. That year, more than 500,000 persons were injured in automobile accidents blamed on excessive speed. That's the bloody price tag on too much speed. The cost that you may pay sooner or later. For a few minutes saved by speeding. Slow down for safety's sake. And remember, drive as though your life depends on it.

[Theodorus Gunario]

It does.

[Narrator]

Now back to the Adventures of the Falcon.

[Mike Waring]

Well, that's the way it goes sometimes. And apparently this wasn't Georgie's day. It may have started badly enough when Iris gave him the air. But Eddie Welch sure ended it for him with a bang. I knew none of this when I got out of the cab in front of 14 Trikoopas. I never even noticed the official looking car parked at the curb. I guess I was asleep. But the boy who answered the door certainly opened my eyes.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

Yes, please.

[Mike Waring]

I'm looking for George Venizelas.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

On your name.

[Mike Waring]

Mike Waring.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

I'll be so good as to enter.

[Mike Waring]

Maybe I better not.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

Pardon?

[Mike Waring]

Well, I learned a long time ago when I'm greeted by a man in a Blue coat and brass buttons with a better. I should have stood in bed.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

Permit me to introduce myself. I am Emmanuel Kumandores, Lieutenant in His Majesty's Police.

[Mike Waring]

I was afraid of that.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Now, where do we go?

[Mike Waring]

Right here. Uh.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Oh.

[Mike Waring]

Is that George Venizelas?

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

You did not know him?

[Mike Waring]

Only as a voice on the phone. May I?

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

Allow me. Or Stratos.

[Mike Waring]

Yes, sir.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

Take three men on interview. Deneble.

[Mike Waring]

Yes, Lieutenant. All right.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

You, you, you.

[Mike Waring]

Come with me.

[George Venizelos]

Well?

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

Thin enough?

[Mike Waring]

Too much. Apparently. He knew what he was talking about. Pardon? He called me a couple of hours ago at my hotel. The American Embassy had referred him to me.

[George Venizelos]

Why?

[Mike Waring]

He claimed he knew the identity of the number one boy in the communist underground here.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

That's ridiculous.

[Mike Waring]

Someone was real anxious to shut him up. Did he have any family?

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

Just a brother.

[Mike Waring]

What's his name?

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

Nicholas Van Zelos.

[Mike Waring]

Think I could talk to him?

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

I do not imagine it would do any good.

[Mike Waring]

Still, you never know unless you try. I'll be seeing you, Lieutenant. I wish there was some way I could help Mr. Waring.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

But I'm afraid there isn't much I can tell you.

[Mike Waring]

You never know. Mr. Venizelos, was your brother a communist? What? Well, he claimed he knew the identity of the head man in the party here.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

It must have been George's idea of a joke. Believe me, he took absolutely no interest in politics.

[Mike Waring]

Then what do you think was the motive for his murder?

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Robbery.

[Mike Waring]

According to the police, there wasn't a thing taken from his apartment.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Perhaps the burglar was frightened off.

[Mike Waring]

That's a possibility, but let's look at another. How did you two get along?

[Nicholas Venizelos]

You know, I'd be within my rights to say it's none of your business. But somehow I've got a great deal of confidence in you.

[Mike Waring]

No, I appreciate that.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

George and I never got along too well. I suppose it was all my fault. I insisted on treating him as a.

[Mike Waring]

Child, and naturally he resented it.

[George Venizelos]

Naturally.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

I never realized how much until recently.

[Mike Waring]

How did you find out?

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Through a mutual acquaintance.

[Mike Waring]

Iris Richards.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Where did you learn about her?

[Mike Waring]

To Lieutenant Komandoris. You think she might know anything about his murder?

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Of course not.

[Mike Waring]

Still, I think we ought to have a talk.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

I'd rather you didn't, old man.

[Mike Waring]

You and your brother weren't rivals for her affections?

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Don't be ridiculous.

[Mike Waring]

Why do you object to my seeing her?

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Because there's nothing to be gained by it.

[Mike Waring]

You never can tell.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Nevertheless, I forbid you to see her.

[Mike Waring]

You forbid me? Yes. You sound like you're Used to giving orders, I am. What happens when they're not obeyed?

[Nicholas Venizelos]

That's a very good question, Waring. And if you insist on seeing Iris, you'll have the opportunity of finding the answer for yourself. I rather doubt whether you'll enjoy making the discovery.

[Iris Richards]

Yes?

[Mike Waring]

Hello, Ms. Richards.

[Iris Richards]

Who are you?

[Mike Waring]

A fellow American.

[Iris Richards]

Oh. And you think this is old home week?

[Mike Waring]

Well, I had hopes.

[Iris Richards]

Sorry, I'm busy.

[Mike Waring]

The name is Waring. Mike Waring.

[Iris Richards]

Mm. I'm still busy.

[Mike Waring]

I'm a friend of George Venizelas.

[Iris Richards]

Oh. Well, if. If George sent you over to plead his case, he's wasting his time.

[Mike Waring]

Mm.

[Iris Richards]

Well, isn't that.

[Narrator]

Oh, yeah.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah, sure. So, may I come in?

[Iris Richards]

It won't do you any good.

[Mike Waring]

Won't do me any harm either.

[Iris Richards]

Um. How. How is George?

[Mike Waring]

Not so hot.

[Iris Richards]

He'll get over it.

[Mike Waring]

I kind of doubt that. Iris. You never get over his kind of trouble.

[Iris Richards]

He's a fool. He'll find a million other girls.

[Mike Waring]

Not George.

[Iris Richards]

Sure he will. He's just a kid.

[Mike Waring]

You sound like his brother Nicholas now.

[Iris Richards]

Well, it's what he is.

[Mike Waring]

Something tells me you were in love with the boy.

[Iris Richards]

Don't make me laugh.

[Mike Waring]

Why'd you see so much of him?

[Iris Richards]

Well, a girl's gotta have something to do in a place like this.

[Mike Waring]

Then he meant nothing to you?

[Iris Richards]

Not a single solitary thing.

[Mike Waring]

Well, then you won't be interested in the fact that he was murdered. What?

[Iris Richards]

What did you say?

[Mike Waring]

Yeah. He was shot to death last night at a quarter to 10.

[Iris Richards]

You're lying.

[Mike Waring]

I'm sorry, angel.

[Iris Richards]

Where is he? Where is he? I've got to see him.

[Mike Waring]

I thought he didn't mean anything to you.

[Iris Richards]

He didn't.

[Mike Waring]

You were crazy about him.

[Iris Richards]

No. No.

[Mike Waring]

Why did you give him up?

[Iris Richards]

Because I couldn't stand him.

[Mike Waring]

Why did you give him up, Iris? Did Nicholas have anything to do with it?

[Iris Richards]

How many times must I tell you? He didn't mean a thing to me. Not a thing. Now, will you get out of here and leave me alone.

[Mike Waring]

At the moment?

[Theodorus Gunario]

Ah, Nicholas, my good friend.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

What are you doing here, Genario?

[Theodorus Gunario]

I just hear about your brother is making me for to be very unhappy.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Come in.

[Theodorus Gunario]

Thank you. I cannot tell you what is in my heart, Nicholas. I know how you feel about Georgie. Who do you think do such an awful thing?

[Nicholas Venizelos]

I wish I knew.

[Theodorus Gunario]

Maybe that fellow Michael Waring.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Find out who told you about wedding.

[Theodorus Gunario]

Oh, he's little. I don't know. He was up to see Iris.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

She tell him anything?

[Theodorus Gunario]

Not Comrade Richards. She feel about party like you do? It's like I tell you on the phone yesterday.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

You told me on the phone.

[Theodorus Gunario]

Sure. When I speak to you around 7, 8 o'.

[Mike Waring]

Clock.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Where did you call me?

[Theodorus Gunario]

Here.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

I wasn't even home at the time.

[Theodorus Gunario]

It's impossible. The fellow I talked to have exactly the same exit.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Go on, Ganario.

[Theodorus Gunario]

I must have made a mistake.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

You certainly did. You spoke to George? What did you tell him?

[Theodorus Gunario]

Well, nothing, Nicholas. I just ask how you feel. How is business?

[Nicholas Venizelos]

You're lying. You must have mentioned something about the party.

[Theodorus Gunario]

No. Nicholas.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

You stupid blundering fool.

[Theodorus Gunario]

You should never do this to Gunario. I forgive you because you are upset.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Get out.

[Theodorus Gunario]

Sure. Nicholas, I know I have been great disappointment to you. But maybe I can make up for it. You see if I don't gonna.

[Narrator]

Yeah.

[Mike Waring]

Hello, Waring. Do I know you? Well if you don't, it's not my fault. I'm Eddie Welch. Eddie Welch? Oh, sure. Would you like to come in? Try and keep me out. I assume that gun is loaded? Uh huh. Then I wouldn't dare. It does flop anywhere. That sofa is pretty good. Thanks. And suppose you sit right here where I can keep an eye on you. Anything to oblige an old friend. So you're Eddie Welch. Hit register? Yeah, very definitely. You're a trigger man for the cp. What are you doing in Athens? I'm crazy about ruins. I thought you made your own. Yeah, it's pretty good.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Not very.

[Mike Waring]

Did you take care of George Venizelus? What do you think? I think yes. What bothers me is who gave you your orders. Tell you what I'll do, Eddie. Make your deal. You'll make me a deal? Well, occasionally you have to bargain with rats. Why? You know. Good. What's the matter?

[Iris Richards]

Nothing.

[Narrator]

You're sick.

[Mike Waring]

Get back. I just want to help you. He said get back.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

You what?

[Mike Waring]

Come on, drop it. Drop it.

[Narrator]

I'll break your arm.

[Mike Waring]

I mean it, Eddie. All right now. Who sent you around here?

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Get a doctor.

[Mike Waring]

Who sent you around? Eddie, please. Please get me a doc. I'm on fire.

[Theodorus Gunario]

Sure.

[Mike Waring]

You've been poisoned. The dirty Laos.

[Theodorus Gunario]

Who did it?

[Mike Waring]

Eddie? Come on. You want to get even, don't you? No. Good. Dirty Eddie. Eddie. Hello? Operator. There's a dead body in my room. I'd like it removed. Maybe room service can help me out.

[Narrator]

Most of us are looking forward to the Labor Day weekend and planning to spend it out of town. And that's fine for most of us. But we should always keep in mind that these long weekend holidays are often tragic Times for some of us who start out gaily to enjoy them. More than 1300American families will lose one or more of their loved ones in accidents on the highways at all times, and particularly on long holiday weekends. Drive as though your life depends on it. It does. Now, back to the Adventures of the Falcon.

[Mike Waring]

Well, I guess it only goes to prove. You can't believe the ads here. The Hotel Olympia boasted of their deluxe service. Yet when Eddie Welch keeled over in my room and I buzzed the operator for room service, it was 20 minutes before someone knocked on my door. And when I opened it, there stood Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandoras. Naturally, I was disappointed.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

Ah, Mr. Waring. We meet again.

[Mike Waring]

I don't blame Lieutenant.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

The gentleman is a friend of yours?

[Theodorus Gunario]

Him?

[Mike Waring]

Heaven forbid. That's Eddie Welch.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

What was he doing here?

[Mike Waring]

Well, I've got an unpleasant idea. He came over to give me a treatment.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

A treatment?

[Mike Waring]

The same kind he gave George Venizelas.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

You feel he was responsible for the murder?

[Mike Waring]

He practically admitted it to me.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

Why should he?

[Mike Waring]

Because he figured he had nothing to lose. He was going to put me away, too.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

And what happened?

[Mike Waring]

He didn't watch his diet. He was poisoned.

[Theodorus Gunario]

Ridiculous.

[Mike Waring]

Just turn him over and take a sniff. Need any help?

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

No, I can't manage.

[Mike Waring]

Thank you.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Strychnine.

[Mike Waring]

That's what it is.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

I do not understand.

[Mike Waring]

Well, my guess is that the same party who ordered him to kill George Venizelas hated loose ends. So Eddie was sent around to take care of me.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

Then why was he poisoned?

[Mike Waring]

Because Eddie himself was a loose end. I guess his boss hoped that he would get to me before the strychnine took effect. Lucky for me, his timing was off.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

But why was George murdered?

[Mike Waring]

Well, I hate to use the phrase, Lieutenant, but it fits. It was all a communist plot.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

You know who was responsible?

[Mike Waring]

I've got a pretty good idea. But in fairness to all concerned, I feel his brother Nicholas should be the first to know. I hope he appreciates the honor.

[Iris Richards]

Hello, Nicholas.

[Mike Waring]

Ms. Richards.

[Iris Richards]

It was Comrade Iris the last time we met.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

What are you doing here?

[Iris Richards]

I wanted to see you.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

That was most unwise.

[Iris Richards]

I thought the situation warranted it. Is Comrade Gunnario here?

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Should he be?

[Iris Richards]

Mm. I took the liberty of telling him you wanted to see him. Sit down.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Do you know what you're doing?

[Iris Richards]

Yeah. Isn't that a switch? I'm giving the orders now. It's funny what a little gun can do for your morale.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

You regret this, comrade. I can assure you that the proper authorities are.

[Iris Richards]

Oh, please don't threaten Me, with discipline. I've had all of that. I can stand for eight years. Every minute of my time belonged to the party. For eight years I did everything they told me without questioning. They were going to make a better world. Well, just between us girls, comrade, I haven't seen one soul they ever helped. But it took your brother's murder to open my eyes. The poor kid. Nep. Oh, I guess that's Comrade Gunario.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Shall I?

[Iris Richards]

By all means. We couldn't possibly proceed without him.

[Mike Waring]

Just a moment. Hello, Nicholas.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Mr.

[Mike Waring]

Wedding. I think you know, Lieutenant. Well, if it isn't Iris Richards.

[Iris Richards]

That's who it is.

[Mike Waring]

That wouldn't be a gun you're holding. Wouldn't it? Yeah, I guess it would. Better put it away, Angel. This man is a police lieutenant.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

I must warn you. You, young lady, don't bother.

[Iris Richards]

Just sit down over there.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

Really, miss.

[Iris Richards]

Go on, all of you.

[Mike Waring]

Now, if you're gonna behave like this, Iris, I'm not gonna let you in on my surprise.

[Iris Richards]

What are you talking about?

[Mike Waring]

I know the motive for George's murder. What? Well, accidentally, George learned who was head of the local communist setup in Greece.

[Iris Richards]

I could have told you that.

[Mike Waring]

Yes, but you wouldn't. It's brother Nick here, isn't it?

[Iris Richards]

Yes.

[Mike Waring]

Really, my dear, you're being most absurd.

[Iris Richards]

No one else could have made me give up George.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

But even granting all this, you still.

[Mike Waring]

Would like to know who killed his brother.

[Narrator]

Yes, he did.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

Really, old man.

[Iris Richards]

Just stay where you are, Nicholas. Go on, Waring.

[Mike Waring]

Nick here was completely dedicated to the party. It came first, last and all the time. Naturally, when George threatened to end his use to the common form by exposing.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

Him, he had him killed.

[Mike Waring]

That's right.

[Nicholas Venizelos]

You certainly don't believe this, Lieutenant.

[Iris Richards]

I don't know about him, but I do.

[Mike Waring]

No, Iris. Well, he is dead.

[Iris Richards]

Anybody want to buy a second hand Colt automatic? I'll let it go real cheap.

[Mike Waring]

I'll take it.

[Iris Richards]

Sold to the man on my right. All right, fellas, let's go. I think I took care of everything else.

[Mike Waring]

Ah.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

Some more wine, Michael?

[Mike Waring]

I never could say no.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

You know, I am completely mystified.

[Mike Waring]

I don't see why, Lieutenant.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

Well, Nicholas and George were brothers.

[Mike Waring]

So were Cain and Abel.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

Ah, yes, but there was a difference here. Nicholas was very fond of George. He did everything he possibly could for him.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, sure. But his first love was the Communist party. And anything that threatened it was his enemy. So when it came to a showdown between his brother and the party, George didn't have a chance.

[Lieutenant Emmanuel Kumandores]

I see.

[Mike Waring]

Well, I guess it proves one thing. Romancing a woman can sometimes lead to trouble. But having an affair with the Communist Party is just asking for murder. Good night, Lieutenant.

[Narrator]

The Case of the Silent Butler. The Case of the Silent Butler. That's the title of next week's Adventure of the Falcon. When Mike Waring learns that a perfect servant arrives, the house can still be a deadhead outdoors. The Adventures of the Falcon are based on the famous character created by Drexel Drake, produced and transcribed by Bernard L. Shubert, written by Eugene Wang and directed by Richard Lewis. Les Damon was starred as the Falcon, with Anne Burr as Iris. This program came from New York. Fred Collins speaking.

[Mike Waring]

Sam.