The Falcon: TCOT Silent Butler 08/24/1952

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Falcon – "The Case of the Silent Butler" (08/24/1952)

Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: The Falcon: The Case of the Silent Butler
Air Date: August 24, 1952
Summary Date: January 28, 2026

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Overview

This episode of The Falcon features Mike Waring, a sharp private detective, as he’s flown to Lisbon by Army Intelligence to investigate a suspected spy, Maria Costa. The case quickly evolves into a tangled web of jealousy, espionage, and murder among American embassy staff — with all the twists and melodrama characteristic of classic radio detective stories. Waring must unravel who’s framing Maria, protect her from a jealous wife, and prevent a miscarriage of justice after a shocking murder.

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Main Discussion Points & Key Insights

1. The Setup: Mike Waring's Lisbon Mission

• Mike Waring (The Falcon) is tasked by Army Intelligence to track down Maria Costa, suspected of leaking U.S. secrets in Lisbon.
  • [00:20] Mike Waring: “Seems some little girl there is playing fast and loose with Uncle Sammy’s secrets and I gotta run her down if it kills me.”

2. Maria Under Surveillance and Suspicion

• Maria Costa is introduced as an attractive embassy employee, aware she’s being followed by Dixie Harris (posing as a tourist), and later meets with Stephen Butler.
• Early on, there is suspicion she is being framed:
  • [02:18] Dixie Harris (trying to appear innocent): “No, ma’am, must have been some other tourist in a white suit.”

3. Confrontations & Jealousy: The Butler Triangle

• Maria is nervous, confides in Stephen Butler about being followed.
  • [03:53] Maria Costa: “Well? Some man has been following me… I think his name is Dixie Harris.”
• Steve’s wife, Ann Butler, becomes the focal point for suspicion, especially when it’s revealed the embassy tip about Maria came from a “statuesque blonde with a birthmark”—matching Ann’s description.
• Ann confesses her jealousy and that she tipped off Army Intelligence to frame Maria. The dialogue sizzles with melodrama:
  • [08:46] Ann Butler: “All right, Mr. Butler, I did it. I sicced Army Intelligence on your precious Maria. Why don’t you ask me why?”
  • [09:20] Steve Butler: "It's all over, Ann. I'm gonna marry Marie."
  • [09:28] Ann Butler: “I won’t let you go. I’ll kill her. So help me if you move out of here, I’ll kill her.”

4. Murder Plot Thickens: A Scheme for Hired Killing

• Ann tries to hire the hotel detective, Luis Machado, to arrange a murder, offering $5,000 for a hit on Maria, but then claims it's a joke.
  • [11:20] Ann Butler: “Luis Machado, how would you like to make yourself $500 American? ... I’ll pay him $5,000. Cash.”
  • [12:03] Luis Machado: “If I did, it would be my sacred duty to inform the police."
  • [12:12] Ann Butler: "You're right, senor. I was just pulling your leg."

5. The Murder: Twists and False Confessions

• Mike Waring and Dixie Harris go to Maria’s apartment, only to find Ann Butler shot dead—her own plan backfiring.
  • [16:19] Lieutenant: “Where is she?”
  • [16:21] Lieutenant: “In the bedroom. Dead. She was shot twice.”
  • [16:51] Mike Waring: “Judging from the blonde hair and that birthmark on her right cheek, I’d say she was Ann Butler.”
• Steve Butler confesses to the murder, but Waring is unconvinced:
  • [18:02] Steve Butler (to Waring): "I killed Ann and that's all there is to it."
  • [18:43] Waring: "Strangely enough, you do [seem noble]. ... But, I like to keep an open mind."

6. Unraveling the Truth: Maria’s Attempt & The Hotel Detective’s Guilt

• Maria corners Waring with a gun, apparently intent to kill and incriminate herself to shield Steve:
  • [23:25] Maria Costa: “You are absolutely correct.”
  • [25:10] Maria Costa: “Well, senor, have you any final request?”
  • [26:16] Waring: "I wouldn't make book on it, angel. Certainly not with this gun. The firing pin is gone."
  • [27:06] Waring: "You wouldn't want to see me hurt. So you filed off the firing pin. ..."
• Waring deduces Luis Machado killed Ann Butler, following her to Maria’s apartment to steal the money Ann planned to use for the hit.
  • [27:25] Waring: "Now, who knew Ann Butler had $5,000 on her to pay a gunman? Who had the opportunity to follow her... and kill her for the bundle? ... You!"

7. Classic Detective-Style Wrap-Up

• In a sardonic exchange, Waring explains to Dixie Harris how he was sure Steve didn’t do it:
  • [28:28] Dixie Harris: “What made you so sure Steve Butler didn’t do it?”
  • [28:33] Mike Waring: “Well, that wouldn’t have been ethical. Don’t you know, in real life, the butler never does it. So long, Dixie.”

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Notable Quotes & Moments (with Timestamps)

• Waring’s Hardboiled Opening:
  • [00:20] "Seems some little girl there is playing fast and loose with Uncle Sammy’s secrets and I gotta run her down if it kills me." — Mike Waring
• Ann’s Jealousy Turns Deadly:
  • [09:28] “I’ll kill her. So help me if you move out of here, I’ll kill her.” — Ann Butler
• Luis Machado’s Deadpan Rejection:
  • [12:03] “If I did [know a killer], it would be my sacred duty to inform the police.” — Luis Machado
• Waring’s Detective Wit:
  • [28:33] “Don’t you know, in real life, the butler never does it. So long, Dixie.” — Mike Waring

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Timeline of Key Events

• [00:20–03:13] – Falcon accepts the Lisbon job; Maria’s being tailed.
• [03:14–04:42] – Maria confides suspicions to her lover, Steve Butler.
• [06:13–08:03] – Steve questioned by Waring; Ann’s tip and motives revealed.
• [09:23–10:14] – Ann confesses to framing Maria, threatens violence.
• [11:09–12:20] – Ann offers hotel detective $5,000 to hire a killer.
• [16:21] – Ann Butler found dead in Maria's apartment.
• [18:02] – Steve Butler confesses to Ann's murder.
• [23:25–26:26] – Maria nearly shoots Waring, but gun is harmless.
• [27:25–27:42] – Waring unmasks Luis Machado as the real killer.
• [28:28] – Waring delivers his final punchline about the butler.

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Tone and Character Dynamics

• Waring’s narration is wry and sardonic, maintaining a knowing, humorous detachment—classic noir style.
• Ann Butler is driven by paranoia and jealousy, becoming both suspect and victim in rapid succession.
• Maria Costa is both femme fatale and red herring — suspected, framed, and ultimately shown to be misguided but innocent of murder.
• Steve Butler is the romantic pivot—culpable of infidelity, not of murder.
• Luis Machado is the surprise criminal, hiding in plain sight as the affable hotel detective.

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In Summary

“The Case of the Silent Butler” is a tightly plotted, fast-talking whirlwind of classic detective tropes: a jealous wife, love triangle, international intrigue, and the old switcheroo of "whodunit"—delivered with quotable lines and period-appropriate radio drama style. Mike Waring subverts expectations, delivering one last punchline: “the butler never does it”—reaffirming the genre’s love of both puns and surprises.

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Recommended for fans of vintage mysteries, sharp banter, and classic radio drama suspense.

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].

[Dixie Harris]

Hello?

[Mike Waring]

Yes, this is the Falcon speaking. Oh, Margo. You'll have to cancel me out tonight, Angel. Army Intelligence is flying me to Lisbon. Portugal? Yeah. Seems some little girl there is playing fast and loose with Uncle Sammy's secrets and I gotta run her down if it kills me.

[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, risked their lives to aid law enforcement agencies. Join him now when the Falcon solves the case of the silent butler.

[Mike Waring]

I guess the boy who first gave out with good things come in small packages must have had Maria Costa in mind. Maria is the luscious looking brunette walking down one of the steep winding alleys in Alfama, the old section of Lisbon. She's so pretty even the beggars stop their panhandling to watch her go by. And 15ft behind her is a man in a white suit and a white Panama hat who obviously feels she's worth more than a second glance. He must. He's been following her for days.

[Maria Costa]

All right, senor, what is the meaning of this?

[Ann Butler]

You talking to me, lady? Yes, what can I do for you?

[Maria Costa]

You can stop following me.

[Ann Butler]

Following you?

[Maria Costa]

I saw you at the Castello de San Giorgio.

[Ann Butler]

You mean that Moorish fortress up on the hill?

[Narrator]

Yes.

[Ann Butler]

Oh, not me, sugar. But I wouldn't make that climb for anything.

[Maria Costa]

I know it was you. And yesterday you were on the Rue Aurea.

[Ann Butler]

If that's the section where the goldsmiths have their shops, you're mistaken.

[Mike Waring]

I aim to cover that tomorrow.

[Maria Costa]

You are lying.

[Louise Butler]

Not me.

[Ann Butler]

No, ma'.

[Louise Butler]

Am.

[Ann Butler]

You ask anybody, they'll tell you. Dixie Harris ain't told a lie since he was knee high to a grasshopper. No, ma', am, it must have been some other tourist in a white suit.

[Maria Costa]

Well, in the future you will be so good as to leave me alone.

[Ann Butler]

Why, sure, Maria, anything you say.

[Maria Costa]

How did you know my name is Maria?

[Ann Butler]

Did I call you that?

[Maria Costa]

Yes.

[Ann Butler]

Now what do you know? I guess there must be something in that mental telepathy business after all.

[Maria Costa]

I demand to know why you are following me.

[Ann Butler]

Well, I told you, honey, I'm just doing little sightseeing. And you're the prettiest sight I've seen.

[Mike Waring]

In all of Portugal.

[Ann Butler]

Now you can't blame a Fella, if he comes back for a second look, can you. I'll be seeing you.

[Luis Machado]

Can I help the senorita, please?

[Maria Costa]

My name is Maria Costa.

[Luis Machado]

Oh, yes. Senor Butler is expecting you. Just follow me.

[Maria Costa]

Has he been waiting long?

[Luis Machado]

Oh, perhaps a half hour.

[Narrator]

Maria.

[Maria Costa]

Oh, hello, Stephen.

[Narrator]

I was beginning to worry.

[Maria Costa]

Thank you, darling.

[Luis Machado]

Would he. Senor, care to order now?

[Mike Waring]

Yes, I think so. What would you like, Maria?

[Maria Costa]

Double Smirnoff and orange juice.

[Dixie Harris]

Double.

[Maria Costa]

I developed a great fondness for vodka.

[Mike Waring]

All right, Jose, I'll have the same.

[Luis Machado]

Very good, senor.

[Maria Costa]

Oh, Stephen, it is so good to see you. I cannot tell you how glad I am. Ever since you called this morning, I felt like a bird.

[Mike Waring]

All right, Maria. What's up?

[Maria Costa]

What's up?

[Mike Waring]

Why are you so nervous? Has my wife been bothering you again?

[Maria Costa]

Oh, no, Stephen.

[Louise Butler]

Ohnest.

[Mike Waring]

Then what happened?

[Maria Costa]

Nothing, sweetheart.

[Mike Waring]

Now don't tell me that you're trembling all over. What happened?

[Maria Costa]

I do not wish to worry you, Stephen. You. You have enough trouble at home with Anne.

[Mike Waring]

Come on, Marie. I want to know.

[Maria Costa]

Well? Well? Some man has been following me.

[Mike Waring]

What?

[Maria Costa]

Ever since Thursday. I think his name is Dixie Harris.

[Mike Waring]

Dixie Harris? Was he an American?

[Narrator]

Yes.

[Mike Waring]

What does he look like?

[Maria Costa]

Perhaps as tall as you, but much heavier.

[Mike Waring]

Was he wearing a white suit and a white Panama hat?

[Maria Costa]

You know him?

[Mike Waring]

I saw him in Black Horse Square on Monday and in Alcantara on the day. Thank you.

[Luis Machado]

Will there be anything else?

[Mike Waring]

Not just now.

[Ann Butler]

Yes. Good.

[Maria Costa]

Senor, what does it mean? Stephen, why is this man following us?

[Mike Waring]

I don't know, honey, but I sure intend to find out. Now drink up and I'll get with it.

[Ann Butler]

4, 2, 2, 1. Hello. Have I the honor of talking to that distinguished gentleman known far and wide as the Falcon?

[Mike Waring]

Oh, yeah.

[Dixie Harris]

Dixie.

[Ann Butler]

How in the world did you know it was me?

[Dixie Harris]

I recognize you by a white suit. How we doing?

[Ann Butler]

Not so hot, Mike. Maria spotted me when this mortar in Alfama.

[Dixie Harris]

Tough.

[Ann Butler]

I'm sorry, pal, but it couldn't be helped. Though I managed to tailor to the Cafe Europa where she hired a couple with Steve Butler.

[Dixie Harris]

Always Steve Butler, isn't it?

[Ann Butler]

Uh huh.

[Dixie Harris]

You learn anything else?

[Ann Butler]

No. Not a single blessed thing. If you ask me, friend, we got a bum steer. That gal's no spy.

[Dixie Harris]

And what about those confidential reports from the embassy we found in her apartment?

[Ann Butler]

I'm beginning to think they were planted.

[Dixie Harris]

By whom?

[Ann Butler]

By the same little lady who gave us the original tip.

[Dixie Harris]

Are you able to latch onto her again?

[Mike Waring]

Nope.

[Ann Butler]

That name she used was a phony.

[Dixie Harris]

Well, I don't get it?

[Mike Waring]

Me neither.

[Ann Butler]

But a layer six, two and even somebody's trying to frame Maria. What gets me is why.

[Dixie Harris]

That's a very good question, Dixime. I'll get busy on the answer right away. Keep in touch, fella. I may have news for you real soon.

[Mike Waring]

Y you Stephen Butler? That's right. My name is Mike Waring. Oh, of course. Army intelligence informed us you'll be dropping by. You probably want to see the ambassador. There's no need to bother him. You're his aide, aren't you? Yes. Well, I think you can give me all the information I need. Sit down, won't you?

[Narrator]

Thanks.

[Mike Waring]

Cigarette? Yeah, please. You see much of Maria Costa these days? What? Maria Costa? The girl who works in the coding department. Well, working together in the embassy, naturally. I run into her every once in a while. Yeah, naturally. But how about on the outside? Why should I? No good reason. Suppose I told you she was a spy? That's ridiculous. We found confidential material in her apartment. I don't believe it. Well, that's your privilege. She ever tried to pump you? Of course not. You're a married man, aren't you, Butler? What's that got to do with it? Nothing. Nothing. What does your wife look like?

[Ann Butler]

Why?

[Mike Waring]

I'm just curious. We got our tip about Maria from a tall, statuesque blonde. A blonde? Yeah. Blue eyes, fair complexion, little birthmark on the right cheek. You know her? No. You sure? Are you calling me a liar? Heaven forbid. I was just wondering why she would try to frame Ms. Costa. I have no idea. Well, if through some accident you find out, give me a jingle, huh? I'm staying at the Prince George. I'll bear that in mind, Waring, but I can't make you any promises. If I learn anything, you can trust me to do the right thing. Hello, Ann.

[Maria Costa]

Oh, Steve.

[Louise Butler]

You startled me. I didn't think you'd be home.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah, it is kind of early for me.

[Louise Butler]

I gotta get off my feet. I had the most miserable day.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, I had a pretty lousy one myself. Fellow named Mike Waring dropped in to see me.

[Louise Butler]

Who?

[Mike Waring]

Mike Waring. He's with Army Intelligence. Seems they got a tip that Maria Costa was a spy.

[Louise Butler]

Really?

[Mike Waring]

Really. According to Waring, his informant was. How did he put it? Oh, yes. A tall, statuesque blonde with a birthmark on her right cheek.

[Louise Butler]

Darling, you're not suggesting.

[Ann Butler]

Yes, I am.

[Louise Butler]

You're being absurd. Why should I?

[Mike Waring]

Because you're out of your mind.

[Louise Butler]

All right, Mr. Butler, I did it.

[Narrator]

Sure.

[Louise Butler]

I sicced Army Intelligence on your precious Maria Why don't you ask me why?

[Mike Waring]

I don't have to.

[Louise Butler]

No. You think I was blind? I know you're in love with her.

[Mike Waring]

You know, it's a funny thing, Anne. I bet I've heard you say that a thousand times in the last seven years. And for once in your life, you're right.

[Louise Butler]

No.

[Ann Butler]

Yes.

[Narrator]

This time you hit the nail right on the head.

[Louise Butler]

Steve, you don't mean that. You couldn't. You're just trying to hurt me.

[Narrator]

I don't have to.

[Mike Waring]

You're the kind of hurts herself.

[Louise Butler]

Steve, please listen to me. I know I was wrong, but I.

[Maria Costa]

Love you so much.

[Louise Butler]

Darling, every time you look at a woman, I go crazy.

[Mike Waring]

I know.

[Louise Butler]

You gotta understand. I just do these awful things because.

[Maria Costa]

I'm so afraid of losing you.

[Ann Butler]

Well, you have now.

[Louise Butler]

No. You love me. You know you do.

[Mike Waring]

It's all over. N. I'm gonna marry Marie. No.

[Maria Costa]

I couldn't live without you.

[Mike Waring]

You better get used to the idea. I'm moving out now.

[Maria Costa]

I won't let you go.

[Mike Waring]

Stop it.

[Maria Costa]

I'll kill her.

[Louise Butler]

So help me, if you move out.

[Maria Costa]

Of here, I'll kill her.

[Mike Waring]

You're insane.

[Maria Costa]

Save him. Don't go.

[Louise Butler]

I promise you, darling. Steve, please. Continental Hotel.

[Maria Costa]

Your order, please.

[Louise Butler]

This is Louise Butler in 419. Yes, senora. What's the house detective's name?

[Maria Costa]

The house detective? Luis Machado.

[Mike Waring]

Oh.

[Maria Costa]

Are you having difficulty, senora?

[Louise Butler]

No, no, I. I just would like to see Senor Machado. Is he around?

[Maria Costa]

Not just now, senora.

[Louise Butler]

Well, the moment he comes in, will you please send him up to my room? It's very important. You might even say it's a matter of life and death.

[Luis Machado]

Senora Butler?

[Louise Butler]

Yeah?

[Luis Machado]

I am Luis Machado.

[Louise Butler]

Oh, yeah. Come on in.

[Mike Waring]

Obrigado.

[Louise Butler]

Suppose we sit right here, huh?

[Luis Machado]

Oh, the telephone operator said.

[Louise Butler]

I know, but wouldn't you care for something to drink first?

[Luis Machado]

Oh, seor, I am on duty. The management expects me to do what.

[Louise Butler]

The management doesn't know won't hurt them. Will it.

[Mike Waring]

Be true?

[Louise Butler]

There we are.

[Luis Machado]

The senor is most kind. If there is any way I can reciprocate.

[Louise Butler]

There is.

[Luis Machado]

You have but to command.

[Louise Butler]

Luis Machado, how would you like to make yourself $500American?

[Mike Waring]

I would like you very much.

[Louise Butler]

You must know all sorts of dangerous criminals.

[Luis Machado]

Oh, unfortunately, yes. It is unavoidable in my calling.

[Louise Butler]

You know, a professional killer.

[Ann Butler]

Hmm.

[Louise Butler]

A man who would commit murder. For a price, Senora Butler, I'll pay him $5,000.

[Luis Machado]

You are jazzling.

[Ann Butler]

No.

[Louise Butler]

$5,000, cash. And 500 for you. I got the money right here in my purse.

[Luis Machado]

It pleases the senora to make fun of Luis Machado.

[Louise Butler]

You don't believe me?

[Luis Machado]

Naturally not. If I did, it would be my sacred duty to inform the police.

[Louise Butler]

You're right, senor. I was just pulling your leg. It was just a bad joke.

[Luis Machado]

Are you relieved?

[Louise Butler]

For a moment you thought I really meant it, huh?

[Mike Waring]

Yes.

[Louise Butler]

What would I want with a hired killer? After all, if you want a job done right, there's nothing like doing it yourself, huh?

[Mike Waring]

I do not understand.

[Louise Butler]

That's not important. Senor, I hate to rush you, but would you mind finishing your drink? I just remembered I got something to do.

[Narrator]

We've been asked to pass a warning along to you, but it really shouldn't be necessary. Almost every issue of your daily newspaper gives you this warning over and over. It's the warning to drive carefully and safely. Just read the stories that tell of death and accidents on the highway and then think about it for a minute. Those warnings right from the news are more dramatic warnings of danger than any that we could make up. They can and may happen to you. You can't keep everyone else from driving recklessly, but you can check on yourself. Highways are extra crowded now, so be extra careful. The life you save may be your own. Now back to the Adventures of the Falcon.

[Mike Waring]

Now there's one nice thing you can say about being married to a girl like Ann Butler. Makes life kind of interesting. You never know what she's going to cook up next. While Mrs. Butler was comparing recipes with Louise Machado, the obliging hotel detective Dixie Harris and I were cruising on the Avenida de la Bidade, past the Obelisk, which commemorates the liberation of Portugal from Spanish rule. But Dixie never even noticed it. Apparently he thought I was a more interesting sight.

[Ann Butler]

What's eating you, Mike? You look unhappy.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah, that's me. Old transparent face wearing you.

[Ann Butler]

Worrying about that Marie of cost? Uh huh. Ain't you convinced yet? She was free. She's no spy.

[Mike Waring]

That's what bothers me. Dixie.

[Ann Butler]

I don't get you. Watch it.

[Mike Waring]

You almost got that pedestrian.

[Dixie Harris]

Shucks.

[Ann Butler]

And I thought I had him for sure. What'd you make of Steve Butler?

[Mike Waring]

Strictly the lanolin plus type. A real smoothie.

[Ann Butler]

That's why I had him pegged, too. But I figure he's real gone on Maria.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah, which forces us to the unhappy conclusion that the frame for Maria was staged by his wife.

[Ann Butler]

Hey, you think that's who our blond tipster was? But deaf Wait till she finds out a little stunt fell flat on its face. She's gonna be real annoyed.

[Mike Waring]

And a gal like Ann Butler believes in the old sore. If you don't succeed at first try, try again.

[Ann Butler]

What do you think she'll try next?

[Mike Waring]

No telling.

[Ann Butler]

I guess you're right. I always knew a doll like that back in Atlanta. She was real crazy about her friend of mine. And real jealous, too. Man, every time she blew her cork, you'd have to make for the hills. Cause that gal was murder.

[Mike Waring]

She was what?

[Ann Butler]

Murder.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah, that's what I thought you said. Where does Maria Costa live?

[Ann Butler]

Right off the Rua de Prince pit.

[Mike Waring]

Well, turn this heap around. Let's go.

[Ann Butler]

Hey, you don't think Ms. Butler.

[Mike Waring]

I think she's exactly the same type of that girl you knew in Atlanta. Step on it, boy. We got to make like the Marines.

[Lieutenant]

Si, senores.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, no. Let's get out of here, Mike.

[Lieutenant]

Just a moment, please. You are looking for someone?

[Mike Waring]

Yeah, but I don't think we'll find her in. Is this Maria Costa's apartment?

[Lieutenant]

Eight days.

[Ann Butler]

That's what I was afraid of.

[Lieutenant]

Excuse me.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, don't mind him, Lieutenant. He always acts like this when he sees a man in a blue uniform. He's from the South. He keeps forgetting the Civil War is over.

[Lieutenant]

That is most amusing. May I inquire as to your names?

[Ann Butler]

Sure.

[Mike Waring]

I'm Mike Waring and this is Dixie Harris. We're attached to American Intelligence. I see.

[Lieutenant]

Be so good as to enter.

[Mike Waring]

Where is she? In the bedroom, dead.

[Lieutenant]

She was shot twice.

[Mike Waring]

Tough.

[Lieutenant]

Obviously this does not come as a surprise to you, Senor Harleen. I would be most interested to hear why.

[Mike Waring]

Can we see her first? Of course.

[Lieutenant]

Over here, senores.

[Mike Waring]

Can we take a peek?

[Lieutenant]

You would like me to remove the blanket?

[Mike Waring]

Yes, please. Holy smoke.

[Ann Butler]

That ain't Maria Costa.

[Mike Waring]

No.

[Lieutenant]

You are surprised.

[Mike Waring]

That's the understatement of the week.

[Lieutenant]

You do not know this lady?

[Mike Waring]

Well, judging from the blonde hair and that birthmark on her right cheek, I'd say she was Ann Butler.

[Lieutenant]

You are absolutely correct.

[Mike Waring]

Where is Maria Costa?

[Lieutenant]

Senorita Costa has momentarily disappeared. But it is of no import. We have already apprehended the assassin.

[Mike Waring]

Who is it? The victim's husband, Steve Butler. I don't believe it.

[Lieutenant]

He has even obliged us with a confession.

[Mike Waring]

Where is he?

[Lieutenant]

In the palace of Justice.

[Mike Waring]

Can I see him?

[Lieutenant]

It will be my pleasure. These way, senor.

[Mike Waring]

Who's there? Hello. Steve Waring, that's who it is. The Embassy send you over? No, I'M here strictly on my own.

[Ann Butler]

Why?

[Mike Waring]

Oh, I don't know. Maybe it's because you're a fellow American in the jam. Or maybe I'm just plain nosy. Cigarette?

[Narrator]

Thanks.

[Mike Waring]

Well, how are they treating you? I can't complain. They told me you signed a confession. Mm. Why did you kill him? The usual reason. We didn't get along. Well, from what I hear, you haven't been getting along for years. When she tried to frame Maria Casta for espionage, that was the straw that broke the camel's back. So you picked up a gun and shot her. Twice. Makes sense. Thanks. But why did you pick Maria's apartment to do the job? Well, it seemed like the best spot. Well, didn't occur to you it might be embarrassing for Maria? I guess I wasn't thinking too clearly. It's funny. You impress me as a boy who always knows what he's doing. Where's Maria now? I have no idea. You wouldn't have made that confession to Shielder? To shield him. Don't tell me I impress you as the noble type? Strangely enough, you do. You're out of your mind. Well, we'll find out when we latch on to Miss Costa. Look, Waring, you mind your own business. Well, this is my business. You're an employee of the American Embassy. So is Maria. I don't want you bothering her, you understand? She had nothing to do with this. You're in love with her. I was not in love with her. It was just a little extracurricular activity. I killed Ann and that's all there is to it. Well, you ought to know best. But I like to keep an open mind. I'll be seeing you, Steve.

[Luis Machado]

Can I assist you, senor?

[Mike Waring]

You can if you're the house detective.

[Luis Machado]

I am, senor, but how did you know?

[Mike Waring]

You're wearing a Durbeam. My name is Michael Waring.

[Lieutenant]

Me.

[Mike Waring]

Where?

[Maria Costa]

Waring?

[Mike Waring]

No, that's close enough.

[Luis Machado]

And I am Luis Machado.

[Mike Waring]

Well, glad to know you. Louise. Suppose you take a look at this.

[Luis Machado]

You are with the American intelligence. And there is some way I can be of aid.

[Mike Waring]

So I think so.

[Luis Machado]

Oh, come on, mi senor.

[Mike Waring]

You heard about the Senora Ann Butler?

[Luis Machado]

Oh, yes. It is most sad. She and her husband were guests of the establishment.

[Mike Waring]

Yes, I know. The switchboard operator tells me a couple of hours before she was murdered, she asked that you come up to her room.

[Luis Machado]

Oh, yes. It was most puzzling.

[Mike Waring]

Oh? What did she want?

[Luis Machado]

Well, knowing of my profession, she wished to know if I was acquainted with someone who might commit A murder?

[Mike Waring]

How much was she willing to pay? Huh? Well, naturally, she didn't expect him to work for free.

[Luis Machado]

Oh, no, no. She said she would compensate him in the amount of $5,000American. Understandably, I was horrified. Then she explained it was all a joke.

[Mike Waring]

Did you believe her?

[Luis Machado]

She was an American.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah, they'll do anything for a laugh. Well, what happened after that?

[Luis Machado]

Well, as I took my departure, she said something. Let me see if I can remember. If you wish a task well done, do it yourself. Exactly.

[Mike Waring]

Well, that explains how she wound up at Maria Costa's apartment. She went there to kill her.

[Luis Machado]

Oh, it does not seem credible.

[Mike Waring]

Take my word for it. That's how it happens. Thanks a lot, Louise.

[Luis Machado]

I have been of some age.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, indeed you have. Maybe I can make it up to you real soon.

[Ann Butler]

Hello.

[Dixie Harris]

That's you. Dick's he?

[Mike Waring]

Yeah.

[Dixie Harris]

Mike Waring.

[Ann Butler]

Oh, what's a good word, Pappy?

[Dixie Harris]

Look, I'm at the Continental. I just got through with the hotel deck.

[Ann Butler]

Uh huh. Was there any help?

[Dixie Harris]

Not much. How did you make out?

[Ann Butler]

I didn't.

[Dixie Harris]

Did you find out who identified Ann.

[Mike Waring]

Butler for the police?

[Ann Butler]

Oh, they didn't need anybody. They found a purse right next to the body.

[Dixie Harris]

Was there a gun in it?

[Ann Butler]

No, everything else but Passport, driver's license, $12 and change, and her keys to the hotel.

[Dixie Harris]

What about Maria Costa?

[Ann Butler]

Oh, she wasn't in there either.

[Dixie Harris]

I mean, have we been able to locate her?

[Ann Butler]

Uh, not yet.

[Dixie Harris]

Well, now, look, we got to find her, Dixie. Go through her application at the embassy. She must have given the name of her close relatives. Maybe she's holed up with one of them.

[Ann Butler]

Oh, I. I'll get right on it.

[Dixie Harris]

Good boy. I'm going back to my hotel. If you learn anything, lift the.

[Maria Costa]

Come in. Senor Wary, huh? You will be so good as to close the door?

[Mike Waring]

Oh, yes, of course. You know, you can't beat these Portuguese hotels. If I knew my room came equipped with something like.

[Maria Costa]

You will stop right there.

[Mike Waring]

Say, isn't that an awfully big gun for little girls?

[Maria Costa]

I can manage. Please sit down.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, never while a lady is standing.

[Maria Costa]

I insist.

[Mike Waring]

I just wanted to show you I never forget my manners. You're Maria Costa, aren't you?

[Louise Butler]

Yes.

[Mike Waring]

You've been giving us a lot of trouble, Maria. And we've been looking all over Lisbon for you.

[Maria Costa]

Obviously, you did not look in the right place.

[Mike Waring]

Obviously. You know Steve Butler confessed to his wife's murder.

[Maria Costa]

That does not surprise me.

[Mike Waring]

But we both know he didn't do it, don't we?

[Maria Costa]

Then who did?

[Ann Butler]

You.

[Mike Waring]

You're showing up here with a gun proves it.

[Maria Costa]

You are absolutely correct.

[Mike Waring]

Well, I always say, if two people share a secret, it ain't no secret.

[Maria Costa]

Is that what you always say? Well, I think the problem is easily resolved. If I should kill you, that would leave only one.

[Mike Waring]

Now, wait a minute.

[Maria Costa]

If there is a fallacy in my logic, senor, I will be happy for you to point it out. I'll give you exactly one minute to try.

[Narrator]

Summer is the time for carefree holidays and vacations. But don't be carefree on the highway with roads jammed with traffic. This is the time to be extra careful when driving. When you plan a trip, be sure to allow plenty of time so that you won't be forced to drive too fast or too long. When you get tired at the wheel, you lose your skill and your judgment. You can drive better when your mind is at ease and when you know that your car is in good running order. And when you start that trip, resolve that you're going to obey traffic laws and regulations. Don't gamble with safety. Remember, the life you save may be your own. And now back to the Adventures of the Falcon.

[Mike Waring]

I don't know if you've ever been alone in a hotel room with a beautiful girl, but take my word for it, it's overrated. Especially if she's chaperoned by a gun. Still, I was awfully pleased that Maria gave me a full minute to dig up a reason why she shouldn't use it. In this day and age, most girls wouldn't have been that patient.

[Maria Costa]

Well, senor, have you any final request?

[Mike Waring]

Yeah. I'd like to see Brooklyn again. Look, Maria, killing me won't solve anything.

[Maria Costa]

I believe it will.

[Mike Waring]

It doesn't bother you they'll hang Steve Butler for his wife's murder?

[Maria Costa]

Not at all.

[Mike Waring]

You were in love with him.

[Maria Costa]

You're being very childish, you know.

[Mike Waring]

He confessed to Anne's murder just to shield you.

[Maria Costa]

And you feel I should do as much in return?

[Mike Waring]

It's what I would have expected.

[Ann Butler]

Yes.

[Mike Waring]

Seems to me.

[Maria Costa]

It seems to me, senor, you have exhausted your allotted time. So if you will forgive me.

[Mike Waring]

What happened, angel? A gun was fired.

[Louise Butler]

Let me go.

[Mike Waring]

Don't be silly.

[Luis Machado]

No, you don't.

[Mike Waring]

We only allow one chance to accustomer.

[Luis Machado]

Come on, drop it.

[Mike Waring]

All right, now sit over there.

[Narrator]

Wife, ask him in.

[Mike Waring]

You behave yourselves since you're wearing. Ah, if it isn't Louise Machado. Yeah, Come on in, Louise.

[Luis Machado]

My visit is not inopportune? No.

[Mike Waring]

As a matter of Fact, your timing couldn't have been better. But, lady, naturally, as a hotel detective, you'd think of that. This is Maria Costa.

[Luis Machado]

Maria Costa?

[Ann Butler]

Yeah.

[Mike Waring]

She just tried to kill me.

[Louise Butler]

I will succeed.

[Mike Waring]

Yet I wouldn't make book on it, angel. Certainly not with this gun. The firing pin is gone.

[Maria Costa]

What?

[Mike Waring]

Am I right, Louise? Let me see.

[Luis Machado]

Oh, but, yes. Someone has fired it off. It would require a miracle for her to harm you with this.

[Mike Waring]

Well, strictly between us, I don't think she was really trying.

[Maria Costa]

You're insane.

[Luis Machado]

Really, senor?

[Mike Waring]

Don't you get it, Louise? She's in love with Steve Butler.

[Luis Machado]

So?

[Mike Waring]

So he confessed to Shielder. Now, if she had just walked in here and did the same, what would have been my reaction?

[Luis Machado]

Well, senor, you would have thought that she was trying to protect him.

[Mike Waring]

That's right. I would have patted her shoulder and told her to go home like a good girl. So she decided to incriminate herself, and taking a shot at me seemed like the best way to handle it.

[Louise Butler]

No. No.

[Mike Waring]

Yes.

[Luis Machado]

Yes.

[Mike Waring]

And being the type girl you are, you wouldn't want to see me hurt. So you filed off the firing pin, hoping it would go unnoticed in the excitement.

[Maria Costa]

I tell you, you are wrong.

[Mike Waring]

Just relax, Angel.

[Luis Machado]

I do not understand. If she did not kill the signora Butler, who did?

[Mike Waring]

Well, I'm glad you asked me that, Machado, because I just happened to be prepared with an answer. Now, who knew that Ann Butler had $5,000 on her to pay a gunman? Who alone had the opportunity to follow her over to Maria's apartment and kill her there for the bundle?

[Louise Butler]

Who?

[Mike Waring]

You? Really? Now, now, don't be unhappy, Luis. You couldn't use that money anyway. It's not inflammable where you're going. You'll need money to burn. Well, Dix, looks like my plane's all warmed up. Madrid. I'm on my way.

[Narrator]

Now, hold it, papy. Oh, you don't want me to miss it. You're not leaving Lisbon till you answer one question. I can see how you figured Maria.

[Ann Butler]

Didn'T kill Ann, but what made you so sure Steve Butler didn't do it?

[Mike Waring]

Well, that wouldn't have been ethical. Ethical? Yeah. Or it may happen in detective stories and radio programs. But don't you know, in real life, the butler never does it. So long, Dixie.

[Narrator]

The case of the careless corpse. The Case of the Careless Corpse. That's the title of next week's Adventure of the Falcon. When Mike Waring learns that what some people do for money is nothing short of murder. 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 Briana Rayburn as Maria. This program came to you from New York. Fred Collins speaking.

[Louise Butler]

Sam.