The Falcon: TCOT Vanishing Visa 06/22/1952

Summary

Podcast Summary: "The Falcon: The Case of the Vanishing Visa"

Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: The Falcon: The Case of the Vanishing Visa
Air Date: June 22, 1952 (Rebroadcast December 4, 2025)
Starring: Les Damon as Mike Waring, "The Falcon"
Summary Prepared By: Podcast Summarizer

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Overview

In this taut, Cold War-era detective drama, private investigator Mike Waring—alias "The Falcon"—is called out of retirement for a covert mission in Vienna. His task: extract a young Austrian informant, Trudy Bronheim, before she falls prey to Soviet agents. Set amid the intrigue-laden backdrop of postwar Vienna, the episode churns with double-crosses, jealousy, and the deadly game of espionage, culminating in a murder mystery with threads leading from Vienna's smoky hotel bars to Soviet security offices.

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Major Discussion Points & Plot Developments

1. A Call to Vienna ([00:19]–[09:15])

• Mike Waring (The Falcon) is introduced, declining a date with a woman named Iris as he is off to Vienna.
• Setting the Scene ([01:08]–[03:44]):
  The story opens in the bar of Vienna’s Hotel Imperial where bartender Al Romano reconnects with Trudy Bronheim, an attractive blonde with a secret agenda. They discuss contacts, information, and pay-offs, indicating espionage beneath the cocktail chatter.
• Stephen Lorimer’s Fate ([03:54]–[05:29]):
  The deal goes sour; Trudy’s American friend, Stephen Lorimer, is tracked down by the sinister Robert Vaughan—Koslov’s right-hand man—resulting in Lorimer’s apparent suicide, though listeners sense there’s more to the story.

2. Undercover Assignments ([07:21]–[10:14])

• Leon Brill Recruits Waring:
  Leon Brill, a sharp U.S. operative, reactivates Mike Waring for a government mission to Vienna:
  • Contact Trudy at the Imperial Hotel and get her out of Austria.
  • Avoid Robert Vaughan at all costs ("the boy the Reds use as a troubleshooter").
• "Any way you want to work it is okay with us. Just get her to the embassy in Paris." — Leon Brill ([08:49])

3. First Contact: Waring and Trudy ([10:23]–[13:20])

• Mike and Trudy Meet ([10:47]–[12:15]):
  Mike uses the arranged code phrases to gain Trudy’s trust ("I’m from New York"; "I have a cousin in Milwaukee. That’s practically a suburb.").
• They quickly move to planning an escape, but Trudy is worried about authentication of forged documents.

4. Danger, Jealousy, and Murder ([13:20]–[17:04])

• Eric Hoffman's Jealousy:
  Trudy’s boyfriend, Eric, is suspicious—jealous of her ties to Stephen Lorimer and now, Mike Waring. He accuses her of running away with an American and physically threatens her ([14:46]–[15:09]).
• Robert Vaughan Confronts Waring:
  Vaughan appears, claiming Trudy has been murdered and the murder weapon—Mike’s own inscribed gun—was found at the scene ([15:13]–[16:20]).
  • "Trudy Bronheim was working for the American government, as you are." — Robert Vaughan ([17:26])

5. The Frame-Up and Waring’s Escape ([17:04]–[21:13])

• Framing the Falcon:
  Waring is driven around Vienna and accused of the murder, but boldly turns the tables by escaping with the gun (which is later revealed to be loaded with blanks).
• Cat-and-Mouse:
  Vaughan reveals the escape was intentional to trace Waring to other informants. The supposed escape route was a setup.
  • "You won't get hurt... They can only hang me once." — Mike Waring ([18:07])

6. The Break in the Case ([21:13]–[24:31])

• Eric’s Confession:
  Under pressure, Eric Hoffman admits to fighting with Trudy out of jealousy, saying he "choked her" to force the truth, but left her alive.
• Al Romano’s True Allegiance:
  Waring concludes that Al Romano, the bartender, is likely the Red agent who supplied Trudy’s whereabouts.

7. The Final Showdown ([24:31]–[28:31])

• Waring’s Plan and Alibi:
  Waring convinces Vaughan to bring Eric in for questioning, hoping to exploit inconsistencies and clear his name.
• The Real Killer Revealed:
  Waring astutely determines only someone with knowledge of his alias and weapon—i.e., Eric—could be the murderer. Caught in contradictions, Eric breaks under pressure and is taken away for the crime.

8. Epilogue: Out of Vienna ([28:31]–[29:45])

• Waring's Exoneration & Departure:
  With the real murderer caught, Waring is released. Vaughan arranges his prompt departure from Austria.
• Decompressing with Brill:
  Mike calls Brill in Paris, jovially reporting his escape and expressing hopes for a quieter assignment.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• "That's right, Vienna. City of wine, women and song. Now there's a combination that's bound to be murder."
  — Mike Waring ([00:19])

• "All you gotta do is get her out of Austria."
  — Leon Brill ([08:40])

• "You won't get hurt... They can only hang me once."
  — Mike Waring to Robert Vaughan ([18:07])

• "I'm afraid I owe you an apology, too."
  — Robert Vaughan, after realizing Waring was innocent ([28:05])

• "I can't believe it. Trudy was very careful. No one suspected her activities, not even I."
  — Eric Hoffman ([20:33])

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Important Timestamps

• Introduction & Setup: [00:19] – [01:08]
• Vienna/Hotel Imperial & Espionage Exposition: [01:15] – [05:29]
• Lorimer's Death & Political Intrigue: [05:29] – [07:21]
• Assignment from Brill: [07:21] – [09:15]
• First Contact: Mike & Trudy: [10:23] – [12:15]
• Conflict: Eric's Jealousy: [13:20] – [15:09]
• Mike Framed & Interrogation: [15:13] – [17:04]
• Waring’s Escape: [18:00] – [19:01]
• Reveal: Al Romano and the Setup: [22:39] – [24:01]
• Climax: Eric Confronted: [25:25] – [28:31]
• Epilogue: Waring in Paris, Recap Call: [28:52] – [29:45]

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Tone & Language

The dialogue blends wisecracks, noir slang, and hard-boiled banter with clipped, devious exchanges typical of Cold War espionage fiction. Waring, as the Falcon, is sardonic and world-weary; the supporting cast—particularly Trudy, Eric, Romano, and Vaughan—switch between desperation, duplicity, and menace.

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Final Thoughts

This episode is a classic example of Cold War suspense wrapped in classic detective radio style: sharp-tongued heroes, shifting allegiances, and a plot hinging on jealousy as much as geopolitics. The resolution—wherein the least suspicious character (Eric) is unmasked as the killer—keeps the listener guessing until the end, while The Falcon barely lives to fight another day.

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For Fans of Detective and Espionage Drama:

This is an engaging taste of "The Falcon"—balancing intrigue, romance, and classic noir wit in Vienna's clandestine circles. The episode is packed with memorable exchanges, dramatic twists, and a satisfying resolution.

Transcript

[Narrator]

Welcome to Choice Classic Radio where we.

[Eric Hoffman]

Bring to you the greatest old time radio shows like us on Facebook, subscribe to us on YouTube and thank you for [e-mail].

[Narrator]

Hello?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Yes, this is the Falcon speaking. Oh, Iris, you'll have to include me out tonight, angel. I'm leaving for Vienna. That's right, Vienna. City of wine, women and song. Now there's a combination that's bound to be murder.

[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 Balkan solves the case of the vanishing visa.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

They say people are the same the world over. It's only the places that are different. Well, I guess whoever it is that does all this saying has a point.

[Al Romano]

There.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

You take the bar of the Hotel Imperial in Vienna. The boy behind the mahogany is a citizen named Al Romano. And to prove my original thesis, Al could hold down the same job in New York. Come to think of it, he once did. But you'd never guess it from his approach.

[Al Romano]

All right, honey, how'd it be?

[Trudy Brownheim]

I would like your brandy, please.

[Al Romano]

One brandy coming up.

[Trudy Brownheim]

How much is it?

[Al Romano]

15 shillings.

[Trudy Brownheim]

4 cents.

Here you are.

[Al Romano]

Tough when a doll like you has to buy her own. Maybe you'd like me to introduce you to a couple of rich tourists.

[Trudy Brownheim]

Oh, I would very much.

[Al Romano]

What's in it for me?

[Trudy Brownheim]

100 shillings.

[Al Romano]

I'd rather work on a percentage basis. How about a 50? 50 split?

[Trudy Brownheim]

Agreed.

[Al Romano]

Yeah, I think we ought to do okay. What do they call you, honey?

[Trudy Brownheim]

Trudy. Trudy Brownheim.

[Al Romano]

I don't know you Trudy. I'm Al Romano. What made you try the Imperial?

[Trudy Brownheim]

A friend of mine recommended it. Mr. Stephen Lorimer.

[Al Romano]

You a friend of that bum?

[Trudy Brownheim]

You know Stephen?

[Al Romano]

Why, he's practically a fixture around here. He's in the back room now.

[Trudy Brownheim]

I must say hello.

[Al Romano]

You're wasting your time. You're trying to get get nothing out of that lush. Now wait a minute.

[Trudy Brownheim]

I'll be right out.

[Al Romano]

That's you, Al.

[Trudy Brownheim]

No.

[Al Romano]

Oh, truly.

[Trudy Brownheim]

Hello, Stephen. I've been looking all over the ring Strasser for you.

[Al Romano]

How'd you know I'd be here?

[Trudy Brownheim]

Aren't you always?

[Al Romano]

Come to think of it, I am.

[Narrator]

I wonder what there is about this.

[Al Romano]

Place that fascinates me.

[Trudy Brownheim]

I couldn't possibly guess.

[Al Romano]

You got something for me?

[Trudy Brownheim]

Yes.

[Al Romano]

Well, wait till I lock the door.

Okay, let's have it.

[Trudy Brownheim]

Here you are.

[Al Romano]

Hey, this looks good, Trudy. Real good. Who are your contacts in Romania?

[Trudy Brownheim]

You should know better than to ask me that.

[Al Romano]

Sorry, I lost my head. Yeah. I bet the boys in the Kremlin will give plenty to get their hands on this information.

[Robert Vaughan]

Okay.

[Al Romano]

I'll see it gets to the right people.

[Robert Vaughan]

Oh. Drink?

[Trudy Brownheim]

No, thank you.

Tell me something, Stephen. Why are you doing this?

[Al Romano]

Why are you?

[Trudy Brownheim]

Austria is my country.

[Al Romano]

But a man without a country, huh?

[Trudy Brownheim]

I didn't mean that.

[Al Romano]

It's all right. You didn't hurt my feelings.

[Robert Vaughan]

It's true.

[Trudy Brownheim]

But then why are you doing it?

[Al Romano]

Maybe I'm trying to justify my existence. Maybe this way I can kid myself into believing I'm not a drunken boy.

[Trudy Brownheim]

You mustn't say that.

[Narrator]

Why?

[Al Romano]

Does it frighten you?

[Trudy Brownheim]

Why should it?

[Al Romano]

I might give you away.

[Trudy Brownheim]

Never.

[Al Romano]

I am weak. Truly, real weak. The comrades got their hands on me, I'd crack in a minute.

[Trudy Brownheim]

I'm not worried.

[Al Romano]

Well, I am. I hear Mr. Vaughan's in town.

[Trudy Brownheim]

Rabbit Vaughan?

[Al Romano]

Yeah, Koslov's right hand man.

[Trudy Brownheim]

I thought he was in Budapest.

[Al Romano]

Not according to my dope. He's here, all right, monocle and all. Like to meet him. Maybe I can arrange an introduction.

[Trudy Brownheim]

Should not joke about such things.

[Al Romano]

Makes you kind of nervous, doesn't it? Putting your life in the hands of a lush.

[Trudy Brownheim]

Stop tormenting yourself. You are one of the finest men I have ever known.

[Al Romano]

Let's not kid each other, sweetheart. It's much too late in the day.

[Trudy Brownheim]

Are you expecting someone?

[Al Romano]

No. Who's there? Mr. Lorimer, who wants him?

[Robert Vaughan]

I doubt whether my name would mean anything to you, but it's Robert Vaughan.

[Al Romano]

Stephen, give me a match. I gotta burn this stuff.

[Robert Vaughan]

Please open up. I should hate the cause of disturbance.

[Al Romano]

Take it easy, fellow. You'll last longer. Listen, Trudy. There's a door behind the screen that leads to the kitchen.

[Trudy Brownheim]

But what about you?

[Al Romano]

I can take care of myself. And I'll hop to it.

[Robert Vaughan]

Really, Mr. Lotto.

[Al Romano]

I said just a second. What are you waiting for, Trudy? Afraid I'll give you away?

[Trudy Brownheim]

No, I'll be dishon. Steve.

[Al Romano]

I'll feed his in.

[Robert Vaughan]

I said, old man, if you don't open this door within five seconds, I shall be compelled.

[Trudy Brownheim]

Let him on.

[Robert Vaughan]

Let him on. Who's got a key for this room? I have. I won't argue. Just use it.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Oh, no.

[Robert Vaughan]

Well, don't stand there like a bloody fool. Get a doctor.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Sure, sure.

[Al Romano]

He's wasting his time.

[Robert Vaughan]

There was a girl in here. Who was she? Come on, man, speak.

[Al Romano]

You're missing the point, Vaughan. That's why I did this, so I couldn't speak. Imagine. She trusted me.

[Robert Vaughan]

I guess she knew what she was doing. Oh, well, never mind the doctor. He's dead.

[Trudy Brownheim]

Hello?

[Eric Hoffman]

Is that you, Toddie?

[Trudy Brownheim]

Who is this?

[Eric Hoffman]

What is the matter, Liebchen? Don't you recognize the voice?

[Trudy Brownheim]

Oh, Eric. Eric, I'm so glad you called.

[Eric Hoffman]

Are you going to be home this afternoon?

[Trudy Brownheim]

No. As a matter of fact, I was just leaving. I've got to go to Leibniz. My Aunt Bertha is very ill. You.

[Eric Hoffman]

Needn'T spare me, Trudi. I know that you are planning to run away with that American.

[Trudy Brownheim]

What are you talking about?

[Eric Hoffman]

You must take me for a fool. Don't you think I've seen you with that Stephen Lorrimer? You followed us many times.

[Trudy Brownheim]

How dare you.

[Eric Hoffman]

I love you, Trudy. No one's ever going to take you away.

[Trudy Brownheim]

I wouldn't be too sure.

[Eric Hoffman]

I would. Your friend, Mr. Lorimer, committed suicide.

[Trudy Brownheim]

What?

[Eric Hoffman]

Obviously you haven't seen the paper.

[Trudy Brownheim]

I don't believe you.

[Eric Hoffman]

I will read it to you. Shamed by his country's warmongering tactics, Stephen Lorimer, expatriate American, committed suicide this afternoon in the Imperial Hotel.

[Trudy Brownheim]

It's a lie. They're using him for propaganda.

[Eric Hoffman]

Then why did he kill himself?

[Trudy Brownheim]

I can't tell you. You. You've got to trust me, Eric. You know that I love you.

[Eric Hoffman]

If you do, you will prove it by way.

[Trudy Brownheim]

I'm sorry. I can't.

[Eric Hoffman]

Hello, Trudy. Trudy?

[Al Romano]

Yes.

[Leon Brill]

You Mike Waring?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

That's right.

[Leon Brill]

My name is Leon Brill. I wonder if you could spare me a couple of minutes. I got a proposition for you.

[Narrator]

Business?

[Leon Brill]

Yeah.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Sorry, Mr. Brill. I've quit the racket.

[Leon Brill]

Come again?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I'm no longer handling private investigations. Well, that's swell.

[Robert Vaughan]

What?

[Leon Brill]

I'd hate to feel I took you away from anything. Say, why don't I sit down?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, I can think of one good reason. You're not staying long.

[Leon Brill]

Oh, I might surprise you. You were one of Donovan's cloak and dagger boys during the war, weren't you? Well, your serial number was 982-3476. On your first mission, you parachuted into Yugoslavia. Second mission, Austria.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

How the devil did you find that out?

[Leon Brill]

Oh, I'm one of the kids.

[Eric Hoffman]

My.

[Leon Brill]

Would you like to see my credentials?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

What do you know?

[Leon Brill]

I know you're going back on active status.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Wait a minute. You can't do this to me.

[Narrator]

Can't we?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Yeah, I guess you can all right.

[Leon Brill]

Now here's the pitch. You're going to Vienna.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

What?

[Leon Brill]

We've arranged passage for you. You leave from LaGuardia tomorrow morning at 6:45. You'll be in Paris on Thursday, Vienna on Friday.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Listen, Brill.

[Leon Brill]

You're to register at the Imperial Hotel. We've made a reservation for you.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Oh, thanks a heap.

[Leon Brill]

My pleasure. You to contact a girl named Trudy Bronheim. You got that?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I got it.

[Leon Brill]

She'll be waiting in the bar at the Imperial on Friday at 1 o'.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Clock.

[Leon Brill]

She's a blond, about five three blue eyes, a little birthmark on her right cheek. I just pretend it's a casual pickup.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

How do I sell myself?

[Leon Brill]

I just tell her you're from New York. She'll reply, she's got a cousin in Milwaukee.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

You answer.

[Leon Brill]

That's practically a suburb. You got that?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I got it. Yes.

[Leon Brill]

All you gotta do is get her out of Austria.

[Eric Hoffman]

Get her?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Are you crazy?

[Leon Brill]

My psychiatrist doesn't think so.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

How am I supposed to manage that?

[Leon Brill]

If I knew the answer, I'd do it myself.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Maybe she could fit in that hole in my head.

[Leon Brill]

Well, that's an idea, but we're not fussy. Any way you want to work it is okay with us. Just get her to the embassy in Paris.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Any other problem? Practical hints you care to offer?

[Al Romano]

Yeah.

[Leon Brill]

Look out for Robert Vaughan.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Who's Robert Vaugh?

[Leon Brill]

He's the boy the Reds use as a troubleshooter.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Sounds English.

[Leon Brill]

Now, don't bother to find out. Just keep out of his way. If you get caught, you're on your own. We'll have to disclaim you.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I understand.

[Leon Brill]

Yeah, we'll have to throw you to the wolves.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Thanks a million, bro, but don't mention it.

[Leon Brill]

Have a nice trip, kiddo. We all got to go sometime.

[Narrator]

On the highways, speed is the number one killer. It takes more than half of the lives lost in traffic accidents in many states. According to the association of Casualty and Surety Companies, 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. Slow down for safety's sake. You'll be doing your part in the current campaign against the number one killer on the highways. Speed. Initiate and support your local enforcement drives against speeders. And remember, drive as though your life depends on it. It does.

Now back to the Adventures of the Falcon.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I don't know why people are so good to me. Take Leon Brill. Two minutes after we met, he was sending me to Vienna. 72 hours later, I was dodging cars and bicycles on the Ringstrasse. Then I glanced at the clock on the corner of Stefan's Plotz and realized it was time to keep my appointment with Trudy Bronheim. So I hustled over to the Imperial. I parked myself on a stool, made a deal with the bartender. While I bent my elbow, he could bend my ear.

[Al Romano]

I'm telling you, buddy, give me this town anytime. You can have New York.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Right now, I just have a Smirnoff martini. Do you know how to make it? You take four pots of vodka.

[Al Romano]

Look, fella, you're talking to Al Romano. The greatest bartender this side of 42nd Street.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Oh, my mistake.

[Al Romano]

You know, around here?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Just got off the plane this morning.

[Al Romano]

And maybe you can tell me something. How are the bums doing?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

They're out in front.

[Al Romano]

Oh, I knew the giants would fall. Just don't have it, that's all.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

How long you been here, Al?

[Al Romano]

Since the war.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Never think of going home?

[Robert Vaughan]

What for?

[Al Romano]

The shilling goes a long way here. Back home, I was just a punk. Here, I'm a big man.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

You must know Vienna pretty well.

[Al Romano]

Yeah. Interested in meeting a chick?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Oh, I don't know.

[Al Romano]

There's a blonde that drops by every once in a while. I could set it up for you. Real doll. Her name?

[Narrator]

Hello, Al.

[Al Romano]

Well, speak of the devil. Hiya, Trudy. I was just telling this gentleman about you.

[Trudy Brownheim]

Well, how nice.

[Al Romano]

You two ought to hit it off real swell.

[Trudy Brownheim]

I'm sorry, but I'm expecting a friend.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Won't I do?

[Trudy Brownheim]

Perhaps some other time.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I always say there's no time like the present. Why don't we try that table?

[Trudy Brownheim]

No, thank you, really.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Come on, angel, please.

[Trudy Brownheim]

You're hurting.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Now, don't be like that, Trudy. I want to tell you all about New York.

[Trudy Brownheim]

You are from New York?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Yes. Would you like to go there?

[Trudy Brownheim]

I would like it very much.

I have a cousin in Milwaukee that's practically a suburb. So you're the one.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I'm the one. My name is Mike Waring.

[Trudy Brownheim]

I'm sorry, Mr. Waring. I did not know.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

How could you? Hey, Al, how about serving us here?

[Al Romano]

Sure thing.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, you got any ideas?

[Trudy Brownheim]

How about what?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

How we can get out of the country.

[Trudy Brownheim]

I think it would be better if I remained.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Look, angel, that's not for you to decide. The powers that be think it's too dangerous. I suppose I rent a car and we try to bluff it through the border.

[Trudy Brownheim]

But I don't have a passport.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I got a couple complete with visas. You're going to be Mrs. Michael Waring. You got a small snapshot.

[Trudy Brownheim]

It's no use. They would recognize it as a forgery immediately.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

You got a better idea?

[Trudy Brownheim]

No.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Then we're stuck with this. Now, here's what I want you to.

[Robert Vaughan]

What's the matter?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Don't look now, but we're being watched.

[Trudy Brownheim]

By who?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

A boy at the bar. He's wearing a trench coat. Okay, you can take a peek. He's moving off.

[Trudy Brownheim]

Oh, Eric.

[Eric Hoffman]

You know him?

[Trudy Brownheim]

Yes, it's Eric Hoffman.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Who is he?

[Trudy Brownheim]

A very dear friend of mine.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

You think he followed you here?

[Trudy Brownheim]

I'm afraid so. Could I tell you?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

No, absolutely not. Those are orders. Where do you live?

[Trudy Brownheim]

Leopoldstadt. Number 64G.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

That's across the Danube Canal.

[Trudy Brownheim]

Yes, it's right near the left bank.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

All right. Worst comes to worse, I'll swim over. Okay, angel, get yourself packed. I'll pick you up in an hour.

[Trudy Brownheim]

Now, where did I put that?

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[Trudy Brownheim]

Who is it?

[Eric Hoffman]

Derrick Foodie, Open up.

[Trudy Brownheim]

Just a moment, Eric.

[Eric Hoffman]

Hello, Liebchen.

[Trudy Brownheim]

What are you doing here?

[Eric Hoffman]

I just dropped by to wish you a pleasant journey.

[Trudy Brownheim]

A pleasant journey?

[Eric Hoffman]

Well, aren't you leaving Vienna?

[Trudy Brownheim]

Well, what gave you such an idea?

[Eric Hoffman]

Those bags, for one thing.

[Trudy Brownheim]

Oh, I'm loaning them to Gretchen.

[Robert Vaughan]

They are very heavy.

[Narrator]

You're loaning her your clothes, too?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Look, Eric, you seem to have developed.

[Eric Hoffman]

A fetish for Americans, huh? First Stephen Lorimer, now this new one.

[Trudy Brownheim]

What are you talking about?

[Eric Hoffman]

I saw you at the Imperial.

[Robert Vaughan]

Who is he?

[Trudy Brownheim]

He's just a tourist.

[Eric Hoffman]

You are lying. I will kill you if you don't.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Tell me He's a tourist. You are going away with him, huh?

[Leon Brill]

Aren't you?

[Trudy Brownheim]

Can't you Please. I. I can't breathe. Eric.

[Robert Vaughan]

Come in.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

All right, boy, you can take those bags.

[Robert Vaughan]

You mean you'd actually trust me? Mr. Waring?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Who the devil are you?

[Robert Vaughan]

Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Robert Vaughan. Well, it means nothing to you.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Should it?

[Robert Vaughan]

I'd hope so. I'm in charge of security for the Soviet sector.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Look, Vaughan, I'm very busy.

[Robert Vaughan]

I can appreciate it, Mr. Waring, but I'm afraid I must take up your time. Perhaps a great deal of it. You know a girl named Trudy Brownheim?

[Narrator]

No.

[Robert Vaughan]

Well, that's odd. I have it on excellent authority that you met her at the bar of the Imperial today.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Your excellent authority is wrong.

[Robert Vaughan]

Then of course, it would be of no interest to you that she was murdered. She?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

What?

[Robert Vaughan]

A pity, isn't it?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Is that on the level?

[Robert Vaughan]

I can assure you I never jest about murder. I find it in horrible taste.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

How did it happen?

[Robert Vaughan]

Apparently she was first choked. But that wasn't the cause of death.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

What was this?

[Robert Vaughan]

She was shot twice with it. At close range.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

That's a cold automatic, isn't it?

[Robert Vaughan]

Yes. What do you make of the inscription for the Falcon? A real straight shooter. Now if I only knew who or.

[Narrator]

What the Falcon was.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Where did you find that gun?

[Robert Vaughan]

Right next to a body. You doubtless heard something about the Soviet penal system.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

That's a great deal.

[Robert Vaughan]

Well, let me congratulate you. You're in a position now to check on it firsthand. I do hope you appreciate the honor.

Oh, William, please slow down. I'd like the gentleman to see our city.

[Al Romano]

Ya, Vaughan.

[Robert Vaughan]

Now, on the right, Mr. Waring, is St Stephen. Lovely, isn't it? The spire is 450ft high. It's considered one of the finest examples of Gotham.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Alright. Never mind the cook's tour, Vaughan.

[Robert Vaughan]

I thought you might be interested. It's probably the last time you'll see Vienna.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Look, I tell you, you're making a mistake. I didn't kill Trudy Brownheim.

[Robert Vaughan]

But you did meet her this afternoon.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

You've been talking to El Romano. Who? The bartender at the Imperial. Isn't that where you got your information? And if it is, then he must have told you it was just a pickup.

[Robert Vaughan]

Really, Mr. Waring, you're insulting my intelligence. Trudy Brownheim was working for the American government, as you are.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, then where's my motive?

[Robert Vaughan]

You were afraid she'd fall into our hands and divulge the names of her associates.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, that's pretty cute. Talk about killing two birds with one stone.

[Robert Vaughan]

Pardon?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

You murder Trudy and frame me for it.

[Robert Vaughan]

Oh, you're not suggesting.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Why not? I can build as convincing a case against you as you can against me.

[Robert Vaughan]

Aren't you forgetting this gun?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

No, it's not mine.

[Robert Vaughan]

It's inscribed in the Falcon.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Any local engraver could have done that. Let's see it.

[Robert Vaughan]

Just a moment. Stop that.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

All right, Vaughan. Behave yourself. You won't get hurt.

[Robert Vaughan]

You're being childish, Mr. Waring. You wouldn't dare shoot.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

What Have I got to lose? They can only hang me once.

[Robert Vaughan]

Yes, I suppose that's true enough.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I'll tell your boy to stop the car.

[Robert Vaughan]

Willie, will you please stop right here?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Tell him to get out and walk to the corner.

[Robert Vaughan]

You heard the gentleman, Willie. But here. Vaughn, don't argue.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Now, you.

[Robert Vaughan]

You're making a serious mistake.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Go on, get out.

[Robert Vaughan]

Are you coming with me?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Just to get in the front. I figure it's about time I was in the driver's seat.

[Robert Vaughan]

It's very amusing.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

All right, hold it. It's fine.

Well, thanks a lot, fellas. I'll be seeing you.

[Robert Vaughan]

I'm sure you will. In the meantime, please take care of that car. It's my pride and joy.

Well, Willie, what do you think?

[Al Romano]

I'm constantly amazed at your knowledge of psychology. For a moment there, I was afraid he would not seize the gun.

[Robert Vaughan]

Yes, I was too. Aren't we lucky Americans are so impulsive? How many cars are following him?

[Al Romano]

3.

[Robert Vaughan]

It's a pity one of them couldn't have stopped and picked us up. Well, looks like we'll just have to take steps.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Who is it?

[Robert Vaughan]

Who is it?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I'm looking for Eric Hoffman.

[Eric Hoffman]

Yes.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Shut the door.

[Eric Hoffman]

You cannot come in here like this.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I got a gun that says I can.

[Eric Hoffman]

What's the meaning of this?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I'm what they call hot, Eric. Real hot. By this time, half the Soviet garrison must be looking for me. Who are you? Mike Waring. Oh, obviously it rings a bell. Yes.

[Eric Hoffman]

You were the one Trudy was going away with.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

How did you know that?

[Eric Hoffman]

She told me so.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

You're lying. I gave her strict orders to keep her mouth shut.

[Eric Hoffman]

I made her talk. How I choked her.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

You what?

[Eric Hoffman]

I don't know what came over me. The mere thought that she was deceiving me. Dore me out of my mind.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

So you killed her.

[Al Romano]

Oh, no.

[Eric Hoffman]

She finally told me the whole story.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I don't believe you.

[Eric Hoffman]

Well, how else would I know that an American known as the Falcon was taking her away?

[Robert Vaughan]

Huh?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Then what happened?

[Eric Hoffman]

Nothing. I apologized and left.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

And she was all right then?

[Robert Vaughan]

Yes.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Who do you think killed her?

[Eric Hoffman]

I have no idea.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Ever hear of a man named Robert Vaughan?

[Eric Hoffman]

No.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

He's a big shot among the Russkies here. He knew about her work with us.

[Eric Hoffman]

I can't believe it. Trudy was very careful. No one suspected her activities, not even I.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

She must have slept somewhere. Where does she hang out?

[Eric Hoffman]

Sometimes at Schnitzler's, but mostly at Imperial.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Wait a minute. You know the bartender there?

[Robert Vaughan]

No.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, you must have seen Him? Tall, thin boy with black hair. His name is Al Romano. I got a hunch he's working for the Reds. See if you can find out where he lives.

[Eric Hoffman]

You expect me? Yes, I do.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

All you got to do is follow him home. When you find out, give me a jingle. I'll wait here.

[Narrator]

Hey, buddy.

[Eric Hoffman]

Buddy. Yes?

[Al Romano]

Got a match?

[Eric Hoffman]

I think so.

[Al Romano]

Thanks, Eric.

[Eric Hoffman]

How do you know my name?

[Al Romano]

What are you beefing about? You know mine. No. Come off it, chum. You've been tailing me ever since I left the Imperial.

[Eric Hoffman]

What?

[Al Romano]

And a pretty lousy job you did, too. You know, if you're shadowing a guy, it don't mean you have to breathe down his neck.

[Eric Hoffman]

I don't know what you are talking about.

[Al Romano]

Okay. But just in case you're interested, my name is Al Romano and I live in Brigittenau 23 Wallenstein Strasse. But give me a call before you drop by. I'm very seldom home.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Quarter to eight. Where the devil can he be? Keeping himself head enough to.

[Eric Hoffman]

Yeah, Mr. Warink.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

What's a good word, Eric?

[Eric Hoffman]

I'm afraid I didn't do so well.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Didn't you latch on to Romano?

[Eric Hoffman]

Yes, but I was very clumsy. He knew he was being followed. He even knew my name.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

And that proves he's working for the Reds. Did you find out where he lives?

[Eric Hoffman]

Yes, in Brigitten Wallenstein, number 23.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Where exactly is that?

[Eric Hoffman]

On the Left Bank.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, I don't suppose the 8th Avenue subway runs out that far.

[Eric Hoffman]

I beg your pardon?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Never mind. Skip it. I'll manage somehow. Thanks for your hospitality, Eric. I'll see you real soon.

Come on in, Al. The water's fine, but you might be.

[Robert Vaughan]

In over your head.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, if it isn't Comrade Vaughan.

[Al Romano]

Yes.

[Robert Vaughan]

Fancy meeting me here, eh?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Just keep your hands where they are.

[Robert Vaughan]

Oh, now, really, old man. I think you've milked this bit for all it's worth.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I'm not clowning.

[Robert Vaughan]

Neither am I. This building is surrounded by my, shall we say, henchmen. You just glance out the window. You see what I mean?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Yes, but you're in here, and I've got the gun.

[Robert Vaughan]

I hate disillusioning you, Mr. Waring, but it's loaded with blanks.

[Narrator]

What?

[Robert Vaughan]

Well, after all, I couldn't trust you with live ammunition. You might have hurt yourself.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Then you let me escape.

[Robert Vaughan]

Of course. I was hoping you'd do exactly as you did. Lead us to all your confederates in Vienna.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

That's where you're wrong. I'm not working with anyone.

[Robert Vaughan]

No, what about Eric Hoffman?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

He was just a guy I bumped into.

[Robert Vaughan]

You seemed to bump into a lot of people. Eric Hoffman, Trudy Brownheim, and now Al Romano.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, I can explain that. I wanted to get a recipe from him. He makes the greatest march.

[Robert Vaughan]

So you dropped in unannounced, eh?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I didn't think Al would mind. He's from New York, too.

[Robert Vaughan]

I think I'd better tell you something about Mr. Romano. What?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

That he killed Trudy.

[Robert Vaughan]

What makes you say that?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

It's for you. I got a hunch he's working for.

[Robert Vaughan]

You people and following my orders. He murdered Ms. Brownheim.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Yes.

[Robert Vaughan]

It's a very interesting theory, Mr. Waring. A pity you'll never be able to prove it. You see, Mr. Romano has disappeared.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Sure you took care of that.

[Robert Vaughan]

I wish I had. I just learned he was an agent for your government.

[Narrator]

He what?

[Robert Vaughan]

It's very clever of your Mr. Brill to plant him at the Imperial.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

But he got away.

[Robert Vaughan]

Yes, but you didn't. I guess we should be grateful for small favors. However, suppose we discuss it on the drive over to my office? I think you like this car even better than the last.

[Narrator]

Are you looking forward to a summer vacation. Or to holiday weekends filled with carefree relaxation? Unfortunately, a lot of us will never have those pleasant plans come true. Yes, for thousands, those dreams will turn into tragic nightmares. Because of a traffic accident. Plan your trips so that you have plenty of time without speeding. Just remember, excessive speed is the greatest cause of traffic accidents. Observe traffic laws and regulations. Never drive after drinking. Follow those simple rules all the time. The life you save may be your own.

Now back to the Adventures of the Falcon.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

My mother once told me there'd be times when it didn't pay to get out of bed. Unfortunately, my bed was some 4,000 miles away. And even on a clear day, you couldn't see it from Vaughan's office in the Hofburg. All I saw was trouble ahead. I guess Vaughan had the same view. He looked real pleased about it.

[Robert Vaughan]

You might be interested in knowing, Mr. Wedding. That I've informed your legation we're holding you.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

What did you do that for?

[Robert Vaughan]

Well, I wouldn't want you, Mr. Brill, to think we'd molest an innocent American citizen.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I am innocent.

[Robert Vaughan]

Oh, now, come, Michael. I may call you Michael.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Look, I tell you, I didn't kill Trudy Bronheim.

[Robert Vaughan]

Too bad you can't prove it.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Or maybe I can't prove.

[Robert Vaughan]

Yeah, sure.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Why didn't I think of that before? I've got an alibi. I'd love to hear it. How long will it take you to latch onto Trudy's boyfriend?

[Robert Vaughan]

No time at all. Willie, will you bring in Eric Kaufman, please?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, you don't believe in wasting time?

[Robert Vaughan]

Never. I hate loose ends. You expect Eric to give you an alibi, eh?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

That's exactly what I expected.

[Robert Vaughan]

Oh, come in, Herr Hoffman. Willie, get the gentleman a chair. Yes, sir.

[Eric Hoffman]

What do you want of me?

[Robert Vaughan]

Do sit down, please. I think you know Mr. Waring. No.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Might as well tell the truth, Eric. They know everything.

[Robert Vaughan]

Yes, we do.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

They think I killed Trudy. I told him you were my alibi.

[Narrator]

Me?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, you know I had no motive.

[Robert Vaughan]

Already, old man, this is getting us nowhere. You said that he could give you an alibi.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

He can. After I met Trudy, Eric followed her home. He was jealous. He thought she was going away with me.

[Robert Vaughan]

He was right.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Yes, but for the wrong reason. He thought it was romance, Especially when Trudy wouldn't talk. So he tried to choke the truth out of her.

[Al Romano]

What?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

That's how she got those marks on her throat.

[Robert Vaughan]

And I suppose at this point, the murderer entered and finding her unconscious, killed her with your gun.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

That's exactly how it happened.

[Robert Vaughan]

And where was your alibi, Herr Hoffman, during all this time?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I was standing right over her.

[Narrator]

What?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Yes. You killed her.

[Eric Hoffman]

Eric, you are insane.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

You were jealous of me. No.

[Eric Hoffman]

Trudy told me everything about you.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

How did you know an American called the Falcon was going to take her out of Austria?

[Narrator]

She told me.

[Eric Hoffman]

So she couldn't have.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Nobody over here knows. That's my nom de guerre.

[Robert Vaughan]

I knew it.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

How did you find out?

[Robert Vaughan]

From the engraving on the murder weapon.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, that's the same way Eric discovered it. Only he handled a gun. First he got it out of my room at the Imperial. After he saw Trudy and me together.

[Eric Hoffman]

No, no, that's not true.

[Robert Vaughan]

All right, Willie, take him away.

[Al Romano]

Come on.

[Robert Vaughan]

I don't mean it. I didn't mean it. I swear.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I couldn't let her go.

[Robert Vaughan]

I was afraid. Willie. Willy.

[Leon Brill]

Willy.

[Robert Vaughan]

Willie, please, no violence. What will our Mr. Waring think?

[Eric Hoffman]

My apologies, sir.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

That's quite all right.

[Robert Vaughan]

I'm afraid I owe you an apology, too.

[Narrator]

Skip it.

[Robert Vaughan]

Cigarettes?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

No, thanks. I've taken all I intend to from you people. Can I go?

[Robert Vaughan]

Oh, but of course. After all, I did notify your allegation I was holding you for murder.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

And when they learned that an Eric Hoffman is guilty, they might send someone around to ask embarrassing questions.

[Robert Vaughan]

I am afraid I was a little hasty.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I'm afraid you were.

[Robert Vaughan]

I'll have Willie arrange for your immediate departure from Vienna. You can leave tonight on the Paris Express.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I'm in no hurry.

[Robert Vaughan]

I am. I think we'll both be happier with you in France. I know I will. Give my regards to Mr. Brilliant.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Yeah, what is it?

[Trudy Brownheim]

I'm sorry to bother you, Mr. Brill, but there's a long distance call for you, collect.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Collect?

[Leon Brill]

Who from?

[Trudy Brownheim]

Mike Waring in Paris.

[Leon Brill]

Oh, put him on.

[Trudy Brownheim]

All right, operator. We'll accept those charges.

Hello?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

That's you, Brill.

[Leon Brill]

You got your nerve making a call like this.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I just thought you might like to know I got out of Austria. All right.

[Leon Brill]

Well, you could have dropped me a line.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Oh, that's so impersonal.

[Leon Brill]

Well, I already got the scoop.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, I'm leaving for New York in the morning.

[Leon Brill]

Uh, what do you want to do that for? As long as you're in Paris, you might as well make the most of it. I'm sure we can find something for you to do.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Now, listen, Brill, I wish I could.

[Leon Brill]

Afford to, but this call is costing the taxpayers money. So just stay close to your phone, huh? You'll hear from me in a week.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Have fun, kiddo.

[Narrator]

The Case of the Menacing Mamzell.

The Case of the Menacing Mamzell. That's the title of next week's Adventure of the Falcon, when Mike Waring learns that sometimes a little French miss can do more damage than a French 75.

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 Joan Alexander as Trudy. This program came from New York. Howard Riggs speaking.