The Falcon: The Case of the Baby Brother 02/17/1950

Summary

Summary of "The Falcon: The Case of the Baby Brother"

Episode: The Falcon: The Case of the Baby Brother
Release Date: January 9, 2025
Original Air Date: February 17, 1950
Host/Author: Choice Classic Radio
Transcript Provided by: [User]

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Introduction

"The Falcon: The Case of the Baby Brother" is a captivating episode from the classic detective series "The Falcon," brought to life by Choice Classic Radio. Set in the bustling streets of New York City, the episode weaves a complex tale of deception, familial tension, and intricate sleuthing. This summary delves into the key plot points, character dynamics, and the investigative prowess of the titular detective, Les Démon (The Falcon).

---

Plot Overview

The story unfolds on a Sunday afternoon in New York, where Diana Wayne, a distressed young woman, seeks the help of Steve to escape from the relentless pursuit of Josh Brady. Her desperation hints at a deeper entanglement involving gambling debts and strained family relations.

---

Character Introductions

• Diana Wayne: A frightened blonde woman desperate to flee New York to evade Josh Brady.
• Steve: Diana's companion, involved in questionable activities, possibly related to gambling.
• Roger Clayton: Steve's brother, harboring resentment towards his family dynamics.
• Walter Schnabel: An associate of Roger, depicted as a formidable character with unclear motivations.
• Les Démon (The Falcon): The savvy and resourceful private detective at the center of the investigation.
• Sergeant Corbett: A local police sergeant entangled in the unfolding mystery.

---

Key Events and Discussions

Initial Desperation (00:40 - 04:38)

Diana Wayne arrives at Steve's residence, pleading for entry as Josh Brady hunts her down. Their conversation reveals financial strains and the urgency to leave town.

• Diana Wayne [02:45]: "Steve, let me in. For heaven's sake, let me in."
• Steve [03:00]: "Aren't you starting kind of early? Diana?"

The dialogue underscores their desperation and hints at illicit activities to secure funds for their escape.

Family Tensions and Hidden Agendas (04:38 - 07:22)

Roger Clayton's confrontation with his brother Steve exposes familial discord. Roger demands control over Steve's life, leading to a heated exchange that fractures their relationship.

• Roger Clayton [05:09]: "While you're living with me, you'll keep in line."
• Steve [05:03]: "I'm not interested in what you meant. I don't have to account to you for anything."

This tension sets the stage for the subsequent unraveling of deeper conspiracies.

The Plot Thickens: A Dangerous Proposition (07:22 - 12:00)

Diana persuades Steve to engage in a risky plan to secure funds by suggesting they rob Walter Schnabel's office. The proposition involves accessing the safe and borrowing money from Roger Clayton, adding layers of moral ambiguity.

• Diana Wayne [07:38]: "Take this, Diana. Don't worry. It's on safety."
• Steve [07:43]: "But what do I want with a gun?"

Their calculated discussion reveals the lengths they're willing to go to escape their predicament.

The Falcon Enters (12:00 - 18:35)

Roger Clayton seeks the expertise of Les Démon to find Diana Wayne, whom he blames for his brother's suicide. The Falcon's investigation begins as he scrutinizes alibis and uncovers inconsistencies.

• Roger Clayton [11:03]: "I'm looking for a Mike Waring. The Falcon."
• Les Démon [12:03]: "All right, Clayton. Assuming this is the girl and assuming I find her, what then?"

Les Démon's probing questions and sharp intuition drive the investigation forward.

Clues and Deduction (18:35 - 27:02)

Through meticulous examination, Les Démon deciphers crucial clues, such as the timing discrepancies of the electric clock and the nature of the current in New York's subway system. These insights lead him to suspect Paul Clayton over Josh Brady.

• Les Démon [27:02]: "Well, as a matter of fact, the medical examiner now says that Diana was killed around a quarter to seven."
• Diana Wayne [28:02]: "I guess that takes care of everything, don't you think? Clayton strangled her, don't you?"

Les Démon's logical reasoning and attention to detail highlight his effectiveness as a detective.

---

Investigation and Clues

Analyzing Alibis

Les Démon scrutinizes the alibis of Paul Clayton and Josh Brady, identifying that while Clayton has a solid alibi verified by Walter Schnabel, Brady lacks corroborative evidence.

• Les Démon [27:37]: "Well, the best kind in a case like this, Sergeant. Because when Clayton was so ready with his alibi, it occurred to me that maybe Diana wasn't murdered at the time we originally thought."

Technical Insights

A pivotal moment occurs when Les Démon deduces the time of death based on the malfunctioning electric clock, revealing that it couldn't have belonged to Diana due to the type of current in her area.

• Les Démon [28:25]: "When you said you were going to call Washington, D.C., that D.C. rang a bell. Then I realized Clayton must have brought that clock with him to fix his alibi."

This technical insight shifts the suspicion from Brady to Clayton.

---

Climax

The tension escalates as Les Démon confronts Roger Clayton with his findings. Clayton's facade crumbles under pressure, leading to his implication in Diana Wayne's murder. The Falcon's strategic questioning and evidence presentation corner Clayton, unveiling his guilt.

• Les Démon [26:31]: "I mean he just gave you away. Clayton. The heat's got you in December, don't be ridiculous."
• Roger Clayton [25:52]: "What's he talking about?"

The climax underscores the Falcon's triumph in solving the case through intellect and perseverance.

---

Conclusion

In the resolution, the truth about Diana Wayne's murder is unveiled, exonerating Josh Brady and implicating Paul Clayton. Les Démon's detective work not only brings justice but also restores order within the fractured Clayton family.

• Les Démon [28:57]: "If a man were to walk up to me this minute and announce he's planning to murder some girl... Good night, Sergeant."

The episode concludes with Les Démon reaffirming his role as New York's premier private detective, ready to tackle future mysteries.

---

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

1. Diana Wayne [02:45]: "Steve, let me in. For heaven's sake, let me in."
2. Steve [03:00]: "Aren't you starting kind of early? Diana?"
3. Roger Clayton [05:09]: "While you're living with me, you'll keep in line."
4. Les Démon [12:03]: "All right, Clayton. Assuming this is the girl and assuming I find her, what then?"
5. Les Démon [27:02]: "I mean he just gave you away. Clayton. The heat's got you in December, don't be ridiculous."
6. Les Démon [28:57]: "If a man were to walk up to me this minute and announce he's planning to murder some girl... Good night, Sergeant."

---

Insights and Themes

• Family Dynamics: The strained relationship between Roger and Steve Clayton adds depth to the narrative, illustrating how personal vendettas can intertwine with criminal activities.

• Desperation and Moral Ambiguity: Diana and Steve's willingness to engage in robbery reflects the lengths individuals may go to escape dire circumstances, challenging the notion of right and wrong.

• Detective Ingenuity: Les Démon epitomizes the classic detective archetype, utilizing keen observation and logical reasoning to unravel complex cases.

• Technical Acumen: The episode showcases how technical knowledge, such as understanding electrical systems, can be pivotal in solving mysteries.

---

Conclusion

"The Falcon: The Case of the Baby Brother" masterfully combines suspense, intricate plotting, and compelling character interactions to deliver a quintessential detective story of the Golden Age of Radio. Les Démon's methodical approach and unwavering determination not only solve the mystery at hand but also provide listeners with a satisfying narrative arc filled with intrigue and revelation.

Transcript

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[Choice Classic Radio Host]

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[Choice Classic Radio Host]

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[Podbean Voice]

My church too.

I love it. I really do.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Welcome to Choice Classic Radio, where we bring to you the greatest old time radio shows like us on Facebook. Subscribe to us on YouTube and thank you for [e-mail].

[Ed Herlihy]

The Craft Foods company brings you the Adventures of the Falcon, starring Les Demon.

[Les Demon]

Hello? Yes, this is the Falcon speaking. Oh, Carol, I'm glad you called. Hey, you'll have to count me out tonight, angel. I've got a date to learn all about gambling. Mm. Some boy's gonna show me how to play a long shot and make myself a killing.

[Ed Herlihy]

This is Ed Herlihy, friends, inviting you on behalf of the Kraft Foods company to listen to the Adventures of the Falcon. You met the Falcon first in his bestselling novels. Then you saw him in his thrilling motion picture series. Now join him on the air when the Falcon sol The case of the Baby brother.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Miracle Whip has a flavor so pleasing. Miracle Whip tastes so lively, so teasing.

[Les Demon]

Miracle Whip, only one of its kind.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Miracle Whip, best salad dressing you'll find.

[Ed Herlihy]

Miracle Whip is the only one of its kind because it's a different type of salad dressing. Made from a secret craft recipe, Miracle Whip combines the best qualities of old fashioned boiled dressing and fine mayonnaise. So it's truly distinctive and delicious with a flavor millions of folks call just exactly right. Try it, won't you? One taste will tell you why It's America's favorite salad dressing. The one and only Miracle Whip. And now, the case of the Baby Brother. It's Sunday afternoon in New York, and a frightened blonde named Diana Wayne hurries down the second floor corridor of the Maxton, a shabby rooming house on Manhattan's west side. And when she comes to room 2C, Ms. Wayne announces herself in no uncertain fashion.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Steve. Steve, let me in. For heaven's sake, let me in.

[Les Demon]

All right.

[Steve]

Give a guy a chance, will you?

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Lock it.

[Diana]

Why?

[Steve]

What's the matter?

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Lock it.

[Steve]

Okay.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Give me a drink.

[Steve]

Aren't you starting kind of early? Diana?

[Miracle Whip Voice]

I said give me a drink.

[Steve]

All right. Here.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Let me have another.

[Steve]

Don't you wait till that one hits. Now sit down.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Listen, we gotta blow town.

[Steve]

Why?

[Miracle Whip Voice]

I saw Josh Brady in Times Square today You're crazy. Don't tell me I recognize him anywhere.

[Steve]

What's Brady doing away from Washington?

[Miracle Whip Voice]

That's obvious, isn't it? He's after me. I've got to get out of here.

[Steve]

Take it easy.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Take it easy. Take it easy. It's all right for you to talk. Brady doesn't know about you.

[Steve]

Would it make things any better if he did?

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Well, if you hadn't thrown away the money I took from him on the horses, we wouldn't be in this jam.

[Steve]

It's no use crying over spilt milk.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

We've got to leave New York.

[Steve]

Steve, you tell me how. There's 18 bucks left in the kitty. You know how far that'll get us.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

I'll borrow 100 from Roger Clayton.

[Steve]

No, you won't.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Why not?

[Steve]

We've put too much work on that sucker to let him get off with train fare.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

But Afraid he finds me?

[Steve]

Forget it.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Forget that a man wants to kill me. Forget that I.

[Les Demon]

Shut up.

[Steve]

Now, behave yourself.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Go on, hit me. Hit me some more. You big hero.

[Steve]

You don't know how close you are to really getting it.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Well, what's stopping you?

[Steve]

You enjoy it too much. Now, listen to me. We've still got a chance to wind up with a bundle, but you gotta work fast. You gotta take Roger into camp tonight.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

No, I can't.

[Steve]

It's the only way. We haven't got time to string him along. You said the guy's nuts about you already. There are no buts about it. You want to get out of New York, don't you?

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Yeah.

[Steve]

Well, if you want to get out alive, you'll go to work tonight.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Now, where the devil did I put that thing?

[Roger]

You in the bedroom. Roger?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Yeah?

[Roger]

Are you going out tonight?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

You mine Pour.

[Roger]

Or maybe I do. You haven't stayed home one night this week.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

So what?

[Roger]

So maybe you ought to start taking it easy.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Look, Paul, when I want your advice, I'll ask for it.

[Roger]

Now, don't get me wrong, kid. I only meant.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I'm not interested in what you meant. I don't have to account to you for anything.

[Roger]

Oh, yes, you do. While you're living with me, you'll keep in line. Who's this gal you're running around with?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

None of your business.

[Roger]

I asked you something, Roger, and I.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Still say it's none of your business. I'm sick and tired of your running my life. Just because you're my brother doesn't give you a license to tell me what you do.

[Roger]

I. I'm sorry, kid. I. I Didn't mean that.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

That's okay, Pa. I'm glad you did it. Cause that's the last thing I'm ever gonna.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Well, what do you say, Roger?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I suppose I'm not very bright, Diana, but really, I. I don't understand you.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

It isn't very difficult, honey. Remember this man I mentioned last week?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

No.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

We were sitting right here in the same booth. He's the one who's got all the connections in the stock market.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Oh, yeah?

[Ed Herlihy]

Yeah.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Well, he phoned me this afternoon. He's got an inside tip on a stock that his office is going in for very heavy. He told me he's going to jump at least 10 points in the next two days. Well, I don't see. If we play it smart, we can make a fortune.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Well, sure, but where am I going to get the money to invest in the first place?

[Ed Herlihy]

Borrow it from whom?

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Well, what's the matter with your brother Paul?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I wouldn't take a nickel from Paul, but I've got a couple of thousand of my own.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Don't talk like a fool. How much stock do you think you can bottle? A couple of thousand, maybe 20 or 30 shares. It doesn't even pay.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Well, then I guess we better forget the whole thing.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

We can't afford to.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I don't see where we have other choice.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Well, how about your office?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

You mean Mr. Schnabel?

[Miracle Whip Voice]

You told me he was one of the biggest betting commissioners in New York.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Oh, look, honey, if he knew, why.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Would he have to?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I don't follow you, Diana.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

You've got the combination to the safe.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

So?

[Miracle Whip Voice]

So, if you enter the office tonight and took, say, 50 or 75 grand, forget it.

[Podbean Voice]

Why?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Why? It's stealing.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

No, it isn't. By Tuesday morning, you'd have the money back. What?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I knew that last drink was a mistake.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

By Wednesday morning, we could be on a plane for Hawaii.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Now, Diana, look.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Think of it, darling. We could do anything we wanted.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

You don't know what you're saying.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

All right, Roger. If that's the way you feel.

[Steve]

Wait.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Diana, where you going?

[Miracle Whip Voice]

What's the difference?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

No. Come back here. Yeah, well, at least give me time to think it over.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Time is the one thing we don't have, Roger. If you're gonna do it, you'll have to do it tonight. You've got a key to the office, haven't you?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Oh, yes.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Take this, Diana. Don't worry. It's on safety.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

But what do I want with a gun?

[Miracle Whip Voice]

It's a great morale builder, Kidd. Come on, put it in Your pocket.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Honey, just listen to me for a minute.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

I do. We won't have time to say goodnight. Move over to the corner of the booth, please.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Baby, let's be sensible.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Roger. I am just crazy about you.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Diana. Wait for me at your place. I'll call you the minute I'm through. 47 right. 51 left. 38 right. What the devil's the matter with this thing?

[Walter Schnabel]

Obviously, you have made a mistake.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

What?

[Walter Schnabel]

It must be very difficult working with only a flashlight. Allow me, Mr. Schnabel. Well, well, well. I suppose I ought to apologize, Roger, for inconveniencing you.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Listen, Mr. Schnabel.

[Walter Schnabel]

You're probably wondering why I came back to the office. It was sheer destiny. For the first time in a year, I forgot my medicine. Now, why do you suppose it happened tonight of all nights?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Please.

[Walter Schnabel]

It makes you think, doesn't it? Now, a cynic might ascribe it to coincidence, but I prefer to. Oh, operator, would you be so kind to get me police headphones?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Put on that phone.

[Walter Schnabel]

I am sorry, Roger. What do you say?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Put on that phone.

[Diana]

28Th Precinct. Sergeant Corbett.

[Walter Schnabel]

Oh, Sergeant, my name is Walter Schnabel. I have an employee in my office who I.

[Diana]

No.

[Walter Schnabel]

Are you Roger?

[Ed Herlihy]

Who told you to put it down?

[Diana]

Hello?

[Les Demon]

Mr. Schnabel.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I told you to put it down.

[Steve]

Does that clock fast?

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Diana, I've told you a dozen times before, it's right on the minute.

[Steve]

Steve, what do you suppose is keeping that schmorg?

[Miracle Whip Voice]

How should I know?

[Steve]

He's gonna call you the minute he was through.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Yeah, yeah.

[Steve]

You don't think he'd be stupid enough to come up here without giving any.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Here, Steve.

[Steve]

All right, what are you waiting for?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Hello? Is that you, Diana?

[Les Demon]

Yeah.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Where are you, Roger?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Over at my place.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Listen, darling, don't talk. The phone. I'll meet you at Tony's in 15 minutes.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

It's no use. I didn't get it.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

You didn't get it?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

What? Schnabel came back to the office before I was through. He caught me trying to open the safe. He was going to call the police. Honey, I, I. I told him to put the phone down. I begged him, but he wouldn't listen to me.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

I don't want to hear anything about it. You promised me you'd get the money and you let me down. Goodbye, Roger.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

You don't understand, Diana. I killed it. Hello? Diana? Diana.

[Diana]

Mr. Clayton?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Who is it?

[Diana]

Police.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I. I'll be with you in a second, officer.

[Diana]

Come on, pal, open up. Giving you fair warning, you haven't got a chance. Clayton. Clayton.

[Les Demon]

Yes?

[Roger]

I'm looking for a Mike Waring. The Falcon.

[Les Demon]

I don't know what the Good Book says. Seek and you shall find. Come in.

[Roger]

Thanks. Nice place you got here.

[Les Demon]

I'm glad you approve. Sit down.

[Roger]

I suppose I should introduce myself.

[Les Demon]

It's customer in.

[Roger]

My name's Clayton. Four Claytons.

[Les Demon]

Wait a minute. Didn't I read something?

[Roger]

Yeah. It was my kid brother Roger who committed suicide yesterday.

[Les Demon]

Oh, yes. I'm sorry.

[Roger]

Why? He was a dead duck anyway. He killed the man he worked for.

[Les Demon]

That's one way to look at it.

[Roger]

Well, that's the kind of a guy I am. I've always believed in an eye for an eye. I hear tell the Falcon is the best private dick in New York.

[Les Demon]

You want me to deny it?

[Roger]

No, I just want you to prove it. Take a look at this picture.

[Les Demon]

Not bad.

[Roger]

Who is she? That's what I expect you to find out. She's the gal who got my brother in this mess.

[Les Demon]

What makes you so sure?

[Roger]

I found that picture in his wallet.

[Les Demon]

Doesn't prove anything.

[Roger]

It does to me.

[Les Demon]

All right, Clayton. Assuming this is the girl and assuming I find her, what then?

[Roger]

What do you think?

[Les Demon]

I think you intend to kill her.

[Roger]

Now where did you get that idea?

[Les Demon]

Now look, Clayton, I know how you must feel about your brother.

[Roger]

Never mind the pretty speeches. Will you find her for me?

[Les Demon]

No.

[Roger]

Okay. I guess there must be other private detectives in New York.

[Les Demon]

Look, if anything happens to this girl, you'll yell, copper. Yes.

[Roger]

I wouldn't do that, fella. Because after I take care of her, I could drop back and take care of you. It's been nice seeing you, Waring. Let's both hope it doesn't happen again.

[Ed Herlihy]

This is Ed Herlihy again. Friends. I have a little suggestion for you ladies who wonder what you're going to do for some interesting menu ideas. And my suggestion is just get a two pound loaf of Kraft Smooth melting pasteurized processed cheese.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Food.

[Ed Herlihy]

Velveeta. You can melt Velveeta for smooth, delicious cheese sauce that'll add extra goodness to vegetables or seafood or rice or just plain toast for a fine main dish. And it's such an easy sauce to make. All you do is melt a half pound of Velveeta in the top of your double boiler. Notice how smooth it melts without any lumps at all. Then slowly stir in a quarter of a cup of milk. Season to your taste. And there you have it. A delicious cheese sauce with a wonderful rich yet mild cheddar cheese flavor. A flavor that everyone, the youngsters and grandma included, will enjoy often. And it's a wholesome dish because Velveeta is so rich in important food values from milk. So whether you melt Velveeta for a swell cheese sauce or slice it thick for hearty sandwiches, you'll find Velveeta is a mighty handy helper. Mother, get a two pound loaf tomorrow, won't you? It's America's favorite cheese food. The one and only Velveeta, made by Craft. Now back to the adventures of the Falcon. An hour has passed since Mike Waring was approached by Paul Clayton to hunt down the girl who was responsible for his brother's death. Now we find the falcon. He's in a cheap dive doing a little hunting on his own.

[Les Demon]

Hello, Erin.

[Walter Schnabel]

Oh, hiya, Mike.

[Les Demon]

Sir, can I have 60 seconds of your valuable time?

[Walter Schnabel]

Well, I'm talking to this gentleman here. Right, right.

[Les Demon]

It's very important.

[Walter Schnabel]

Now this is too.

[Diana]

He was vying.

[Les Demon]

So will I. That is, if you don't mind.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

No, no, go right ahead, sir. I'll try my luck at the slot machine till you get through.

[Les Demon]

Thanks a lot.

[Ed Herlihy]

Don't mention it.

[Les Demon]

Listen, Eddie, I need your help.

[Walter Schnabel]

He said something about buying.

[Les Demon]

Oh, yeah, the bartender.

[Walter Schnabel]

Give Eddie a refill and leave the bottle.

[Diana]

Jack.

[Les Demon]

Eddie, you want to watch it.

[Walter Schnabel]

Oh, I haven't touched this stuff in weeks. Mike, I'm just trying to break up a cold. Now, what can I do for you?

[Les Demon]

Take a look at this picture.

[Walter Schnabel]

Hey, where'd you get that?

[Les Demon]

And you recognize her, huh?

[Walter Schnabel]

No. Why should I?

[Les Demon]

Because you know every grifter who blows into New York. Sometimes I think they register with you.

[Walter Schnabel]

I don't know this dame.

[Les Demon]

You're lying. Aideem.

[Walter Schnabel]

Now listen.

[Les Demon]

Come on, spill it. Who is she?

[Walter Schnabel]

Her name's Diana Wayne.

[Les Demon]

Diana Wayne?

[Walter Schnabel]

Yeah. I can't get over it.

[Les Demon]

Can't get over what?

[Walter Schnabel]

I guess they're right when they say truth is stranger than fiction. See that guy I was talking to when you busted in? He wanted to know where he could find Diana too.

[Les Demon]

Certainly is a small world.

[Walter Schnabel]

Lets you have a drink, aren't you?

[Les Demon]

Hold it, Eddie. What's his name? Who? The man you were talking to when I busted in.

[Walter Schnabel]

Oh, Josh Brady.

[Les Demon]

What does he want with Diana Wayne?

[Walter Schnabel]

Why don't you ask him?

[Les Demon]

That's a good idea. How you doing, friend?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I can't seem to beat this machine. Nothing but lemons on it.

[Les Demon]

Eddie told me your name is Josh Brading.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Uh huh.

[Les Demon]

I'm Mike Waring.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Oh, I'm glad To know you, sir. Ain't that the limit? Those lemons again.

[Les Demon]

You new in New York, Brady?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Yeah, I'm from Washington.

[Les Demon]

That where you met Diana?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I beg your pardon?

[Les Demon]

Diana Wayne.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

But just what business is it of yours, mister?

[Les Demon]

I just thought maybe we could join forces. I'm looking for it too.

[Diana]

Oh.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

How much did she take you for?

[Les Demon]

Enough.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Well, if I ever get my hands on her, I'll wring her neck.

[Les Demon]

You're gonna have to stand in line, not me. When did you meet her? Oh, about a month ago.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

You're a liar, Mr. Waring. Diana only left Washington a couple of weeks back.

[Les Demon]

Now look, Brady.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Go on, Warren. Peddle your papers elsewhere.

[Les Demon]

Look, suppose we sit down and have a little time.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I'm not interested.

[Les Demon]

Don't be a fool, Brady. You won't get away with it.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Well, what do you know? I hit the jackpot. Guess nothing can stop me now. Mr. Warren. This is my lucky day.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Come on in, Steve.

[Ed Herlihy]

Huh?

[Miracle Whip Voice]

What's the matter, honey? Did I frighten you?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

No, no.

[Steve]

I just thought you'd be out.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Diana.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Lucky I got back in time. There was a man here asking for you.

[Ed Herlihy]

Who?

[Miracle Whip Voice]

He didn't leave his name. Just left this envelope.

[Steve]

Oh, thanks.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Well, aren't you gonna open it?

[Steve]

It's nothing important.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

And why are you making such a mystery out of it?

[Steve]

What are you babbling about?

[Miracle Whip Voice]

I know if I received an envelope like that, I'd naturally be devoured by curiosity until I found out what was inside.

[Steve]

Well, I know what's inside.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

So do I.

[Steve]

What?

[Miracle Whip Voice]

A one way bus ticket to Detroit.

[Steve]

How do you know that?

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Elementary, my dear Watson.

[Steve]

I opened it by mistake, I suppose.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Yeah, I suppose. You know, Steve, that's what I love about you. You're full of surprises. You're even a bigger rat than I thought.

[Steve]

Shut up.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

If you think you're gonna walk out on me and leave me holding the bag for Roger Suicide, you got another thing coming.

[Steve]

I was just going to Detroit to see if I could dig up something.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Ha. I'll bet.

[Steve]

Now don't be silly, sweetheart. Would I lie to my wife?

[Miracle Whip Voice]

You certainly would.

[Steve]

Look, will it make you feel better if you hold the ticket?

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Yes.

[Steve]

All right.

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Here.

[Steve]

Now you feel better?

[Miracle Whip Voice]

Much.

[Steve]

What's the idea of tearing it?

[Miracle Whip Voice]

I just wanted to make sure you don't go off without me. So if Josh Brady drops around, or anyone else, he'll be right alongside to take your bows.

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[Choice Classic Radio Host]

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[Les Demon]

And that's when I figured I'd better phone you, Sergeant.

[Diana]

That was very sweet of you, Mike. But I still don't see why.

[Les Demon]

You don't see why two men have threatened the life of this girl in the past 24 hours.

[Diana]

I only have your word for that. Why won't you tell me the names of these two characters?

[Les Demon]

Because there's no reason to involve them. One came to my place and the other I ran across by accident.

[Diana]

It's a pity you couldn't hold on to the last one.

[Les Demon]

Well, I had enough work on my hands as it was. It took me another two hours and a bottle of bourbon to get the complete story out of Eddie Lewis. Whoa, Whoa, slow down. 6:21. 6:23. Must be the next house.

[Roger]

Yeah, here we are.

[Diana]

What a dump. What floor does she live on?

[Les Demon]

Second.

[Diana]

You better brief me before we storm the Heights.

[Les Demon]

Well, according to my informant, this girl, Diana Wayne, working a racket all over the country.

[Diana]

She worked by herself?

[Les Demon]

No, she's married to a boy named Steve.

[Diana]

How does he do?

[Les Demon]

Picks out the suckers and spends the money. I understand he's got a system to beat the horses.

[Diana]

That probably explains why they're living in a dive like this.

[Les Demon]

Oh, wait a minute. Two a, B. Must be the last one down the hall.

[Diana]

You know, there's nothing we can actually hold her on.

[Les Demon]

I know that, sergeant. All I'd like you to do is just throw a big enough scare into her so she'll leave town.

[Diana]

Suppose she won't scare?

[Les Demon]

She will if you tell her the two gentlemen are looking for her with murder as their objective.

[Diana]

I still got a feeling you haven't told me everything.

[Les Demon]

You don't think I'd hold out on the police?

[Diana]

Yeah, I do. How do I know? Uh.

[Les Demon]

Oh, don't tell me.

[Diana]

Yep, it's open.

[Les Demon]

If I get a guess what's inside, go right ahead. A dead blonde named Diana Wayne.

[Diana]

Doing fine, Mike. Keep it up.

[Les Demon]

What do you mean?

[Diana]

Well, having supplied us with a body, I'm gonna have to insist you supply us with the name of the party who done it.

[Les Demon]

Oh, now, look, sir.

[Diana]

Come on, pal, start talking. You better if you want to.

[Les Demon]

How do you Figure that, well, there.

[Diana]

Are some people around who might think you were responsible.

[Les Demon]

What?

[Diana]

Now I'm not saying I'm one of them.

[Les Demon]

No thanks.

[Diana]

I'm keeping an open mind. Now convince me you're innocent. I dare you.

[Ed Herlihy]

Remember tomorrow at your grocers you can get a wonderful new salad oil for your homemade salad dressings. Your cooking, your baking. It's craft salad oil, the first salad oil for home use ever offered by the makers of all those wonderful craft dressings. Craft salad oil is a lighter bodied oil, super fine to blend perfectly with other ingredients. Get a pint or quart bottle tomorrow at your grocer's. Ask for Kraft salad oil. Now back to the adventures of the Falcon. Just a few minutes have passed since the discovery of Diane Wayne's body. And how much to the Falcon's surprise? Sergeant Corbett regards him with a jaundiced eye.

[Diana]

All right, Mike, let's start with page one. You knew this girl was murdered before we walked in here.

[Les Demon]

You're being ridiculous, Sergeant.

[Diana]

Well, who do you work for?

[Les Demon]

No one.

[Diana]

What about that guy who came to your place and asked you to find her?

[Les Demon]

You mean Paul Clayton?

[Diana]

How would I know his name? You wouldn't tell it to me before.

[Les Demon]

There was no reason before. He's the brother of the kid who committed suicide a couple of nights back because of her.

[Diana]

Yes, well, guess that takes care of everything, don't you think? Clayton strangled her, don't you?

[Les Demon]

What do you think a jury would say to that?

[Diana]

You tell me.

[Les Demon]

They'd acquit him in a minute. It's too pat. Look, if you're going to murder someone, you don't go around telling the world all about us.

[Diana]

So where does that leave us?

[Les Demon]

I told you. There was another boy Diana trimmed. Oh, A lad from Washington named Josh Brady. And what about husband Steve?

[Diana]

What about him?

[Les Demon]

Well, don't you think it would be advisable to find out where he disappeared to?

[Diana]

Hmm. You're certainly there with the questions, aren't you?

[Les Demon]

Somebody's bound to ask them, Sergeant. Might as well start digging up the answers. Say, any idea when she died?

[Diana]

Yep, I can tell you that to the minute.

[Les Demon]

Oh, how come?

[Diana]

Over here. Notice those scratches all over her face and the broken fingernails.

[Les Demon]

Yeah.

[Diana]

Well, she must have put up quite a battle with her killer. Now come over behind this bookcase. Oh yeah, in the battle they knocked over the electric clock.

[Les Demon]

So she must have died at 25 minutes past 8.

[Diana]

Yep.

[Les Demon]

So is that clock broken or just disconnected? Here's the otter. Oh, you blew a fuse.

[Diana]

Thanks. I never would have known it.

[Les Demon]

Well it answers one of our questions. Now let's see if Paul Clayton can clean up the others.

[Ed Herlihy]

Yes?

[Les Demon]

Hello Clayton. Remember me?

[Roger]

How could I ever forget?

[Les Demon]

Mr. Waring and I want you to know we found the girl.

[Roger]

We? Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't see your friend in the hallway.

[Les Demon]

Mrs. Sergeant Corbett.

[Diana]

Hi Sergeant.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Yes.

[Roger]

Well come in gentlemen.

[Les Demon]

Thank you.

[Roger]

Now what's this about the girl?

[Les Demon]

Her name is Diana Wayne and she's dead. Oh, is that all you can say?

[Roger]

What do you want me to do? Pretend I'm all broken up? You know how I felt about her.

[Les Demon]

That's why I would like to know what you were doing at approximately 8:30 this evening. Why? Because that's the time someone put their two hands around her throat and squeezed none too gently.

[Roger]

What time Was that again?

[Diana]

8:25 to be exact.

[Roger]

Well then that lets me out because from 7 to 10 I was in a bar near Times Square called Jack's.

[Diana]

Can you prove that?

[Roger]

Sure, by the proprietor. I was waiting for a man named Eddie Lewis.

[Les Demon]

What did you want with him?

[Roger]

I was told he could put me in touch with a girl.

[Les Demon]

What happened?

[Roger]

Well he didn't show and I got tired waiting.

[Diana]

Well what do you think Mike?

[Les Demon]

Same as you do Sergeant. I think we all better go on to suspect number two.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I still don't see what all you gentlemen want with me.

[Roger]

Well, I don't know about the Sergeant and Waring, but I came along to congratulate you.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

For what mister?

[Roger]

For doing something that I wanted to do. And if you need any dough for legal expenses, you just let me know.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

What's he talking about?

[Les Demon]

What were you doing at 8:30 tonight, Brady?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

Oh, probably playing a slot machine someplace. You know, it's the funniest thing. I just can't stay away from those gadgets.

[Les Demon]

And where was this one located? There?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I don't rightly remember.

[Les Demon]

But you do recall being clipped by a girl named Diana Wayne?

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

It's funny, I don't seem to recollect that either.

[Les Demon]

Look, that you all routine isn't going to get you anywhere, Brady. The Sergeant here could disprove it in five minutes.

[Choice Classic Radio Host]

I'd like to see him try.

[Diana]

That's easy. You probably made a complaint to your local DA after Diana clipped you. All I have to do is call Washington D.C. and I'll hold the line.

[Les Demon]

Sergeant. What Now I know who killed Diana Wayne.

[Roger]

You mean Brady just gave himself away?

[Les Demon]

No, I mean he just gave you away. Clayton. The heat's got you in December, don't be ridiculous. Wait a minute. I'll take that back. It is possible for the heat to get you this time of the year. And you're going to find that out at Sing Sing very shortly.

[Diana]

Got time for one more, Mike?

[Les Demon]

No. Gotta run, Sergeant.

[Diana]

No you doubt. A couple of questions I want to ask you first.

[Les Demon]

Well, while we're on the subject, there's one I want to ask you. Did you pick up Steve Wayne?

[Diana]

Yeah, in Detroit. Lucky the bus driver remembered him. Steve gave him a ticket that had been torn up and glued together. It was like you suspected. He ran out in the missus.

[Les Demon]

Sweet kid. So he left Diana alone to face the music, huh?

[Diana]

Yeah, but what gets me is how you knew that said music was provided for by Paul Clayton.

[Les Demon]

Well, first of all, he had an alibi for 830, whereas Josh Brady didn't.

[Diana]

What kind of logic is that?

[Les Demon]

Oh, the best kind in a case like this, Sergeant. Because when Clayton was so ready with his alibi, it occurred to me that maybe Diana wasn't murdered at the time we originally thought.

[Diana]

What about that electric clock?

[Les Demon]

Just a prop supplied by the killer. Never could have belonged to Diana.

[Diana]

How do you know that?

[Les Demon]

Well, an electric clock works only on alternating current. And in that section of New York.

[Diana]

Yeah, yeah, sure. There they only have DC direct current.

[Les Demon]

Remember how you blew a fuse when you tried to get it going?

[Diana]

Well, as a matter of fact, the medical examiner now says that Diana was killed around a quarter to seven. But what gets me is how you knew that.

[Ed Herlihy]

I didn't.

[Les Demon]

All I knew was that the clock never belonged to Diana.

[Diana]

How?

[Les Demon]

When you said you were going to call Washington, D.C. that D.C. rang a bell. Then I realized Clayton must have brought that clock with him to fix his alibi.

[Diana]

Didn't I say all along that Clayton killed her?

[Ed Herlihy]

That you did.

[Diana]

You wouldn't believe me.

[Les Demon]

Well, he was the most obvious suspect, Sergeant. And we've all been conditioned by those mystery stories to believe that the most obvious suspect is always innocent.

[Diana]

That'll teach you.

[Les Demon]

Yeah, it's taught me a lot of things. If a man were to walk up to me this minute and announce he's planning to murder some girl. You know, the first thing I do now, why set up a date in advance with some other girl so I wouldn't have to end the evening with you. Good night, Sergeant.

[Ed Herlihy]

There comes a time in the life of every homemaker when she has to fix a dinner fast. And that's when Kraft Dinner is such a help. You see, in just seven minutes, cooking time, Kraft Dinner makes delicious macaroni and cheese. Wonderful tender macaroni with fine cheese flavor all through. Just like I said, in only seven minutes cooking time. That's because every package of Kraft Dinner gives you a special quick cooking macaroni. And just the right amount of Kraft grated for that grand cheese flavor. So tomorrow, get a couple of packages of Kraft Dinner. This is NBC, the National Broadcasting Company.