The Falcon: The Case of the Beautiful Bait 08/22/1951

Summary

Choice Classic Radio Detectives | The Falcon: The Case of the Beautiful Bait

Host: Choice Classic Radio
Episode Release Date: August 14, 2025
Original Air Date: August 22, 1951

---

Introduction

In this thrilling episode of The Falcon, titled The Case of the Beautiful Bait, listeners are transported to the bustling streets of 1950s New York. Hosted by Choice Classic Radio, this installment weaves a complex tale of deception, ambition, and murder within the world of professional boxing. The story intricately blends personal relationships with criminal intrigue, keeping listeners on the edge of their seats until the very end.

---

Setting the Scene

The episode opens with the vibrant atmosphere of a Wednesday night boxing match at a New York fight arena. Al Lassiter, a character known for his penchant for disrupting Vicki Terrence's evenings, is keenly watching the fight alongside a pretty girl. Vicki and Joey O'Hara, Al's friend, engage in banter that hints at underlying tensions.

Vicki Terrence ([01:59]): "Well, thanks for telling me last year. I wouldn't have known."

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Rising Tensions

As the fight progresses, Al becomes increasingly annoyed with Vicki's constant elbowing to gain her attention, revealing his controlling nature. Meanwhile, Vicki notices Joey's exceptional performance in the ring.

Vicki Terrence ([02:21]): "Well, he better do it quick or I'll kill you."

The scene shifts to a conversation between Vicki and Michael Waring—the Falcon himself—at a luncheonette, where Vicki seeks Michael's help regarding Ken Floyd, an old acquaintance whose recent actions suggest malicious intent.

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Introduction of Conflict

Ken Floyd arrives, attempting to manipulate Vicki and create discord between her and Joey. His motives become suspicious as he hints at using Vicki as bait to undermine Joey, who is a rising star under Michael's protection.

Ken Floyd ([05:27]): "So what am I supposed to do, wear a ring in my nose?"

Vicki Terrence ([07:05]): "Now, before you go running to Joey or Lassiter with any pipe dreams, just remember it's a two-way street, honey, and you could have an accident."

Vicki reaches out to Michael Waring for assistance, suspecting that Ken Floyd's sudden interest in her is more than coincidental.

---

Unraveling the Mystery

Michael investigates Ken Floyd's background, uncovering Floyd's attempts to sabotage Joey's burgeoning career. Floyd's actions include seizing Joey's contract and attempting to sell it, indicating a deeper conspiracy aimed at controlling Joey for his own gain.

Michael Waring ([15:07]): "What do you mean?"

Walter Whitcomb ([14:29]): "My name's Walter Whitcomb. I'd like to talk with you."

As the plot thickens, Floyd's interference leads to Joey being implicated in Vicki's suspicious death, raising stakes and urgency in Michael's quest to clear Joey's name.

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Climactic Confrontations

The tension culminates in a dramatic confrontation where Michael, now fully immersed in solving the case, confronts Joey about the implications of Joey's potential involvement in Vicki's murder. Simultaneously, Floyd's true intentions are revealed as he attempts to coerce Joey into relinquishing his autonomy.

Michael Waring ([18:00]): "Now let him go. It's the difference. Vicki's dead, huh? Wanna talk about it? Got nothing to say? I think you better go see Sergeant Corbett just the same."

In a pivotal moment, Michael discovers that Floyd has ulterior motives tied to Walter Whitcomb, further entangling the web of deceit surrounding Vicki's demise.

---

Resolution and Revelation

As the investigation progresses, it becomes clear that Al Lassiter orchestrated the events leading to Vicki's death out of jealousy and a desire to control Joey's career. Utilizing misleading information about Vicki's late-night activities, Lassiter aims to deflect suspicion onto Joey.

Vicki Terrence ([08:34]): "Well, Mike, there's a. There's a fellow I used to go with in Detroit, Ken Floyd. He's come to New York and wants to make trouble between me and Joey."

Michael pieces together the inconsistencies in Lassiter's account, particularly the impossible timing of Vicki's phone call, leading to the unraveling of the true murderer.

Michael Waring ([09:55]): "You know, Whitcomb, I never thought of that angle."

In the final showdown, Michael confronts Lassiter, revealing that Joey's supposed suicide was part of a larger scheme to eliminate evidence and protect Lassiter's interests.

Michael Waring ([23:16]): "Well, looks like destiny. Why that I should get involved with o'? Hara?"

Joey O'Hara ([24:05]): "Well, doesn't a suicide do it?"

With meticulous deduction, Michael clears Joey's name, exposes Floyd's manipulations, and brings Lassiter to justice, restoring order and trust among the characters.

---

Conclusion

The Case of the Beautiful Bait masterfully combines elements of mystery and drama, showcasing Michael Waring's prowess as The Falcon. Through sharp dialogue and intricate plotting, the episode delves into themes of loyalty, ambition, and the destructive power of jealousy. Listeners are treated to a captivating narrative that not only entertains but also highlights the timeless appeal of classic detective storytelling.

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Notable Quotes

• Vicki Terrence ([02:21]): "Well, he better do it quick or I'll kill you."
• Ken Floyd ([05:27]): "So what am I supposed to do, wear a ring in my nose?"
• Michael Waring ([15:07]): "What do you mean?"
• Michael Waring ([18:00]): "Now let him go. It's the difference. Vicki's dead, huh? Wanna talk about it?"
• Joey O'Hara ([24:05]): "Well, doesn't a suicide do it?"

---

This episode exemplifies the Golden Age of Radio's ability to weave intricate and engaging stories, leaving listeners eagerly anticipating the next adventure of The Falcon.

Transcript

[Vicki Terrence]

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[Joey O'Hara]

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[Vicki Terrence]

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[Michael Waring]

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[Joey O'Hara]

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[Vicki Terrence]

I love it. I really do.

[Michael Waring]

Welcome to Choice Classic Radio where we bring to you the greatest old time radio shows like us on Facebook. Subscribe to us on YouTube and thank you for [e-mail] the Adventures of the Falcon Starring Les Damon. Hello? Yes, this is the Falcon speaking. Oh, Linda, thanks for the call, but I have to say nix tonight, angel, as I'm involved with a prize fighter. They tell me he's murdering the ring, but it looks like there may be.

[Ken Floyd]

A murder out of it.

[Michael Waring]

This is Ed Herlihy friends inviting you to listen to the Adventures of the Falcon. Transcribed tonight. You met the Falcon first in his best selling novels and you saw him in his thrilling motion picture series. Now join him on the air when the Falcon solves the case of the Beautiful bait. Now the case of the beautiful bait. It's Wednesday night in New York and in a fight arena, Al Lassiter is eagerly watching one of the boys in the second round of the main event. Lassiter is the fat little man at ringside who keeps poking the pretty girl sitting next to him with his to call her attention to what excites him.

[Joey O'Hara]

Mickey, that kid's terrific. Yeah, look at that jab.

[Vicki Terrence]

Oh, look at it. I felt it. Wow.

[Joey O'Hara]

There's another. Hey, that one hurt.

[Vicki Terrence]

I'll say. Broke three ribs. Look, Al, you don't have to keep giving me the elbow. I'm paying attention.

[Joey O'Hara]

I just want you to watch his boy.

[Vicki Terrence]

What do you think? I'm watching the scenery.

[Joey O'Hara]

He's dynamite. Come on, Joey, you got him going. Keep on top of him. Yo, Joey will kill him.

[Vicki Terrence]

Well, he better do it quick or I'll kill you.

[Joey O'Hara]

This is it, Vicky.

[Michael Waring]

This is it.

[Joey O'Hara]

Course he's in trouble. Look at that Joey go. He's out for K.O. it crosses down.

[Vicki Terrence]

Well, thanks for telling me last year. I wouldn't have known.

[Joey O'Hara]

Ah, he's thrown.

[Vicki Terrence]

Well, I hope so. I can't take much more.

[Joey O'Hara]

Well, that's it. Come on, let's go.

[Vicki Terrence]

Yeah, It's a pleasure. Next time I go to a fight with you, I'm going into training too.

[Joey O'Hara]

I gotta get that Joey o'. Hara.

[Vicki Terrence]

Get him.

[Joey O'Hara]

His contract's up. If he's handled right. Maybe he won't renew with Whitcomb.

[Vicki Terrence]

How do you handle him right?

[Joey O'Hara]

I don't. That's your department.

[Vicki Terrence]

Well, don't you get bright ideas?

[Joey O'Hara]

Play him along. Before he knows it. His name's on my contract.

[Vicki Terrence]

Did anybody ask me?

[Joey O'Hara]

I'm telling you.

[Vicki Terrence]

Well, what if I don't play?

[Joey O'Hara]

I don't put it like that. Put it? If you do play. You know that convertible you've been wanting?

[Vicki Terrence]

Uh huh.

[Joey O'Hara]

Joey signs with me, it's yours.

[Vicki Terrence]

All of a sudden Joey interests me.

[Joey O'Hara]

I gotta sew him up. Vicki, the boy's gone places, right to the top. You don't find light heavies like him every day. He's young. Who knows, he may put on a few pounds and challenge the big boys.

[Vicki Terrence]

Yes sir, the kid's dynam dynamite. And you want me to light the fuse. Excuse me. Aren't you Joey o'? Hara?

[Michael Waring]

Yeah, that's right.

[Vicki Terrence]

I recognized you from the other side of the hotel lobby. I. I saw you fight the other night.

[Michael Waring]

Oh, yeah. You don't look like a fight fan.

[Vicki Terrence]

No? How do fight fans look?

[Michael Waring]

Oh, I mean, you're. Well, a lady.

[Vicki Terrence]

Thanks. And you're obviously a gentleman. But you, you're a fighter. Why shouldn't I be a fan?

[Michael Waring]

Oh, if you want to be, I think it's swell. It's just. Well, I don't know.

[Vicki Terrence]

You mean you're ashamed of being a boxer? Well, you shouldn't be. It takes courage, skill, clean living. Do I sound silly?

[Michael Waring]

No, no, it sounds good when you say it.

[Vicki Terrence]

Well, I. I won't keep you. Now, you. You were going somewhere when I stopped you.

[Michael Waring]

Just out to a movie.

[Joey O'Hara]

I.

[Michael Waring]

Hey, how about you coming along?

[Vicki Terrence]

Well, I. I don't have anything planned.

[Michael Waring]

Good. Then it's settled.

[Joey O'Hara]

Let.

[Vicki Terrence]

Kenny Floyd. What are you doing in New York?

[Ken Floyd]

I'm looking for you. Sweetheart. Detroit's not the same without you.

[Vicki Terrence]

They're still making cars, I hear.

[Ken Floyd]

But not making beautiful music.

[Vicki Terrence]

Look, run along, Ken, will you? I got a date.

[Ken Floyd]

And you're gonna cancel it.

[Vicki Terrence]

Now look, chum, before this goes any further, my date happens to be with an artist with his fist.

[Ken Floyd]

Oh, you got me real worried. What do you say we go inside? It's more comfortable standing here in the hall. I know. What's the matter, Vicki, you're a chick who plays the percentages. Now I don't hold that against you. I think that's smart.

[Vicki Terrence]

Meaning what?

[Ken Floyd]

Meanin you got an eye for the blue chips. I had a short stack. So you Pulled out. And, honey, things are different now. My luck's changed.

[Michael Waring]

Here, take a look at this roll. Catch.

[Vicki Terrence]

So you got a roll? So what am I supposed to do, wear a ring in my nose?

[Ken Floyd]

They're all 50s, honey. Help yourself. There's plenty more where they came from.

[Vicki Terrence]

No sale.

[Ken Floyd]

All right, sweetheart, and let's look at it like this. According to the columns, you're dating Joey o'.

[Michael Waring]

Hara.

[Ken Floyd]

That's what tipped me you were in the big town.

[Vicki Terrence]

Well, what do you know? He can read.

[Ken Floyd]

So I moved in and I've been asking around. And what do you think?

[Vicki Terrence]

I found out how many bars there are in New York.

[Ken Floyd]

I found out that up until a couple of weeks ago, you were real chummy with Al Lasseter.

[Vicki Terrence]

Fancy that.

[Ken Floyd]

So it figures. Lassiter has chips, you'd go for that. And he has a stable of fighters. He could be interested in this o'. Hara, and you're just the bait he'd need.

[Vicki Terrence]

Now we're playing guessing games?

[Ken Floyd]

One way to find out if I'm guessing. I could drop a hint to o'. Hara.

[Vicki Terrence]

No, Ken. Oh.

[Michael Waring]

Oh.

[Ken Floyd]

All of a sudden she's not the sharp chick. That hit a nerve.

[Vicki Terrence]

Well, it's just that Joey might get the wrong idea. And he likes me, see? He likes me a lot. I wouldn't want to hurt him.

[Ken Floyd]

Now, wait a minute, Vicki. Something's out of gear. You started running too fast. Now, don't tell me you're that worried about hurting some jerk who saw.

[Joey O'Hara]

Wait a minute. Now, wait.

[Ken Floyd]

Why didn't I think of that? Certainly you're soft on him. Maybe Lassiter's the one I ought to talk to.

[Vicki Terrence]

Look, what are you trying to do? Just what is it you want?

[Ken Floyd]

I thought that was obvious, sweetheart. I want you.

[Vicki Terrence]

And you think this will get me? Blackmail?

[Ken Floyd]

Why not? I have what Lassiter has. A bankroll. Of course, maybe I don't have shoulders like o'. Hara, but you used to think I wasn't so hard to take. You'll come around again.

[Vicki Terrence]

I hate to disappoint you, but you're counting this chick a little too fast. Ken, if we're gonna play guessing games, I can do some guessing, too. Like where this bankroll came from you're so proud of. You didn't get it. Singing hymns.

[Ken Floyd]

You don't know where I got it.

[Vicki Terrence]

Well, maybe I know where to find out. So before you go running to Joey or Lassiter with any pipe dreams, just remember it's a two way street, honey, and you could have an accident. Now, here's the roll back. Catch.

[Michael Waring]

Hello.

[Vicki Terrence]

Hello. Are you Michael Waring?

[Michael Waring]

Mm. Also called the Falcon, but don't ask me why. And you're Vicki Terrence, huh?

[Vicki Terrence]

Well, I heard you're a good detective, but that's kind of stretching it.

[Michael Waring]

Why? I've just been looking at a picture of you and o' Hara nightclubbing together.

[Vicki Terrence]

I didn't know we'd been published.

[Michael Waring]

You don't read the police Gazette? Come in.

[Vicki Terrence]

Thanks.

[Michael Waring]

Well, now, why do you want a detective?

[Vicki Terrence]

Well, Mr. Waring.

[Michael Waring]

Oh, call me Mike. I'll call you Vicky. Unless o' Hara objects.

[Vicki Terrence]

Don't worry about Joey. He's a lion in the ring, but a lamb out of it.

[Michael Waring]

With you as little Bo Peep, I can believe it. But back to business.

[Vicki Terrence]

Well, Mike, there's a. There's a fellow I used to go with in Detroit, Ken Floyd. He's come to New York and wants to make trouble between me and Joey.

[Ken Floyd]

How?

[Vicki Terrence]

Well, he has some wacky yarn. He's threatened to tell Joey.

[Joey O'Hara]

What yarn?

[Vicki Terrence]

Well, it hasn't anything to do with what I want you for.

[Michael Waring]

Vicki, I found out when people who want to hire me start holding out on me.

[Vicki Terrence]

I'm not holding out. But I'm beginning to wonder if I didn't make a mistake coming here.

[Michael Waring]

So am I, angel.

[Vicki Terrence]

Look, all I want is for you to check up on Ken. He's waving a bankroll, and I'd like to know where he got it.

[Walter Whitcomb]

Why?

[Vicki Terrence]

Look, I'm offering you a job. Take it or leave it.

[Michael Waring]

Now, how do I know you're not planning to blackmail this Ken Floyd if I bring something hot in on it?

[Vicki Terrence]

Oh, brother. He's trying to blackmail me.

[Michael Waring]

How? What's he got on you?

[Vicki Terrence]

It's been nice knowing you, Mr. Waring. I think I go now.

[Michael Waring]

How long? The key.

[Vicki Terrence]

You know, most people have to work if they want to eat. Maybe you're not hungry, huh? So long, Mike.

[Michael Waring]

Now, Here we are. C4, 5 and 6. You going first, Mr. Lassiter.

[Joey O'Hara]

All right, Joey.

[Michael Waring]

And now you, Vic.

[Vicki Terrence]

Oh, no, thanks, Joey. You're in better shape. You can take it, huh? I mean, you and Mr. Lasseter may have some things you want to talk about. You sit next to him.

[Michael Waring]

Okay.

[Vicki Terrence]

Good. That's a load off my ribs.

[Michael Waring]

Well, Mr. Lassiter, ought to be some good action tonight.

[Joey O'Hara]

Yes, there's gonna be some good boys in there.

[Michael Waring]

You know, I like this.

[Joey O'Hara]

Uh, what's the matter?

[Michael Waring]

There's Witcomb, and he sees me.

[Joey O'Hara]

Oh, yeah, he's coming over. Well, don't worry. He can't do anything. Hello, Wickham.

[Walter Whitcomb]

Looks like a jolly little party. Hello, Lester and Joey.

[Michael Waring]

Hello, Mr. Witkin.

[Walter Whitcomb]

And this must be the little lady I've been hearing about.

[Michael Waring]

This is Vicki.

[Walter Whitcomb]

Yes, yes, I know Vicki Terrence.

[Michael Waring]

Ah, you read the papers, too.

[Walter Whitcomb]

I didn't get it from the papers. They just say you've been out with her. But I happen to know why.

[Vicki Terrence]

And I happen to smell a rat. Or could it be a weasel?

[Michael Waring]

What's that, Vicki?

[Vicki Terrence]

I just mean somebody's trying to make trouble.

[Michael Waring]

Who? Why?

[Vicki Terrence]

Obviously someone who'd rather have his dirty work done by somebody else. You know, Whitcomb, I never thought of that angle.

[Michael Waring]

Yeah, I don't get it. What's. What's this all about?

[Walter Whitcomb]

There's nothing mysterious about it, Joey. I just didn't have my eyes open. Somebody opened them for me.

[Michael Waring]

If I don't get an answer, I understand pretty quick. Somebody's gonna close them for you.

[Walter Whitcomb]

I see Ms. Terrence has introduced you to Lassiter.

[Michael Waring]

Yeah.

[Walter Whitcomb]

And told you he was a friend of the family or some such.

[Joey O'Hara]

All right, that's enough, Witkin.

[Michael Waring]

Wait a minute, Mr. Lasseter. I want to hear this. Go on, Wickham.

[Walter Whitcomb]

Well, Joey, it's just that she and Lassiter happen to be more than friends, that's all.

[Michael Waring]

Huh?

[Walter Whitcomb]

She's his girl, Joey. Don't you get it?

[Joey O'Hara]

Don't listen to him, Joey.

[Michael Waring]

Vicki.

[Vicki Terrence]

It's a lie. Joe.

[Walter Whitcomb]

I've been wondering why you were so hard to talk to lately, Joy. Now I find out. Lassiter's girl leading you along so you'll sign with him.

[Michael Waring]

I don't believe it.

[Walter Whitcomb]

She did ask you to sign with Laster, didn't she? Well, didn't she?

[Michael Waring]

She said she thought it'd be a good idea.

[Walter Whitcomb]

Yeah, good for her.

[Michael Waring]

But still don't prove.

[Walter Whitcomb]

All right, all right. You want proof? I'll get it. I didn't know she was Laster's girl. But there are people who do. Just. Just promise me this, Joey, that you won't sign with Laster until you talk to them.

[Michael Waring]

I can't promise that.

[Walter Whitcomb]

Why not?

[Michael Waring]

Because I already did sign with him today. Hello. Looking for me? Corbett?

[Walter Whitcomb]

Oh.

[Michael Waring]

That you, Waring? Yeah, I'm looking for you. I'm sorry, I can't make it tonight, angel. I have to. You'll make it this afternoon. I want to talk to you. What about? What do you know about Vicky Terrence? Vicki? Oh, beautiful eyes. Wonderful complexion. Gorgeous figure. Look, the inventory. I can take myself. What I want to know. What's with you? And her? Nothing. I gave her the brush. Oh, a girl with a bill like hers? I don't believe it. Oh, it's her boyfriend's bill that stopped me. Now look, I'm in her room. Oh, well, you better be careful, Corbett. That boyfriend I mentioned. I'll tell take care of the boyfriend. Now what I started to say I find your name in her address book. How come? Oh, come now, Corbett. If you're going to start investigating all the girls who have my name, I'm investigating this one. Now, what's with you and Vicki? Well, is she there? Yeah, why not ask her? Well, that'll be a little tough, Mike, seeing as how somebody strangled her this morning. Waring. Please, Corbett, I'm trying to eat. But again, every time I look into Ed's luncheonette, I find you. Somebody's got to support him. Look, I don't have all day to hang around here. Well, so long then. Warring. I've told you all I know. Corbett. You admit the girl wanted to hire you? Yes. To check on a Ken Floyd? Yes. But what'd you find out about it? I didn't. Look, I don't buy your dropping the case. Why not? Well, first, the girl's looks. Well, I told you. And second, anytime you turn down a chance to make a buck. That I gotta see. All right, open your eyes. Look, are you gonna cooperate? I told you, she named Ken Floyd. You can check on her. I will. And you can check on her boyfriend, o'. Hara. Now, we're trying to find him. He's disappeared. Well, all the more reason to check. And you could check with the desk clerk at her apartment. Maybe he saw someone go up. Are you trying to tell me my business, Waring? And it so happens the desk is closed from midnight to 8. And Doc says it's possible that she was killed before 8. Well, you've still got enough to keep you busy for a while. If you don't get anywhere, come on back and I'll be happy to take over the case for you. Why, For a fee, of course. So long, Corbett.

[Walter Whitcomb]

Michael Waring?

[Michael Waring]

That's right.

[Walter Whitcomb]

My name's Walter Whitcomb. I'd like to talk with you.

[Michael Waring]

Walter Whit. Oh, yeah, Joey o' Hara's manager.

[Walter Whitcomb]

Ex manager. That's what I wanted to see you about. May I come in?

[Michael Waring]

Yeah, sure. Well, looks like destiny. Why that I should get involved with o'? Hara?

[Walter Whitcomb]

I don't understand.

[Michael Waring]

Well, you don't need to. What's the trouble, Al?

[Walter Whitcomb]

Esther wanted to get Joey away from me. He baited his hook with a beautiful girl.

[Michael Waring]

Vicki. Vicky.

[Walter Whitcomb]

Yes. You've seen in the papers what happened to her. But what the papers don't know is that the girl was just being used by Laster. They also don't know that she was successful.

[Michael Waring]

What do you mean?

[Walter Whitcomb]

Last night I learned that Joey signed with Lassiter.

[Michael Waring]

Oh, well, it's bound to come out pretty soon.

[Walter Whitcomb]

I know. And when it does, the police may think I killed the girl for revenge.

[Michael Waring]

Yeah, they might. So you want me to prove you didn't?

[Walter Whitcomb]

Yeah.

[Michael Waring]

Well, just one thing first. What's that? What gave you the idea that Lassiter was behind Vicki's attentions to Joey?

[Walter Whitcomb]

Why, it's obvious.

[Michael Waring]

Yeah, but was it until somebody tipped you off?

[Walter Whitcomb]

Well, it was suggested.

[Michael Waring]

And would the somebody who suggested it be a fellow by the name of Ken Floyd? Wow.

[Walter Whitcomb]

Incredible.

[Michael Waring]

It's elementary, my dear Whitcomb. All done with mirrors.

[Walter Whitcomb]

What do you know about Floyd?

[Michael Waring]

Not as much as I'd like to. I'll have to look him up after I get through with Lassiter.

[Walter Whitcomb]

Oh, then you. You are taking the case.

[Michael Waring]

Waring. Who am I to fly in the face of destiny? Yeah, Whitcomb. I'll take the.

[Vicki Terrence]

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[Joey O'Hara]

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[Vicki Terrence]

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[Joey O'Hara]

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[Vicki Terrence]

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[Joey O'Hara]

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[Vicki Terrence]

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[Joey O'Hara]

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[Vicki Terrence]

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[Joey O'Hara]

Wait a minute. You must think I'm absolutely crazy. Wary.

[Michael Waring]

Not absolutely.

[Joey O'Hara]

Lassiter, you come here and ask me a lot of questions, all of which are trying to prove that Joey o' Hara killed Vicky.

[Michael Waring]

I never said that last.

[Joey O'Hara]

Well, your questions imply it. But Joey just signed up with me. If you think I'm gonna sell my own fighter up the river, you got another thing coming.

[Michael Waring]

Look, look, I'm just trying to find out a few things about o'. Hara. You've got to admit, things don't look good for him. Disappearing right after the murder.

[Joey O'Hara]

All right, he's not at his hotel. That doesn't say disappeared.

[Michael Waring]

What does it say?

[Joey O'Hara]

I don't know anything about him, and I've got nothing more to say, Sir. Waring, I know that you're a busy man.

[Michael Waring]

Yeah, sure, sure. Well, thanks for nothing. Lassiter.

[Joey O'Hara]

What was that?

[Michael Waring]

Something in the next Room?

[Ken Floyd]

Yeah.

[Joey O'Hara]

Must have come in the back way. Who's there?

[Michael Waring]

It's me, Mr. Lassiter. Bumped into a chair.

[Joey O'Hara]

Oh, Joey. Say, what's the matter with you, boy? You look sick.

[Michael Waring]

I'm all right. Who's this?

[Joey O'Hara]

Mike Waring.

[Michael Waring]

Oh, hello, Joey. Where you been? I don't know where I've been.

[Joey O'Hara]

You what?

[Michael Waring]

That's right, Lass. I don't know. The Woodcomb told me about you and Vicki. I didn't know what to do. Went to a bar, had a couple, three, four. I don't know. That's all I remember.

[Joey O'Hara]

I wasn't very smart, Joey.

[Michael Waring]

Yeah, Yeah, I know, Mr. Lasseter. I'm not very smart. Just a slap happy jerk letting you and a girl make a real schmo out of me. But you're not gonna get away with it.

[Joey O'Hara]

What are you gonna do?

[Michael Waring]

I'm gonna. Who's he?

[Joey O'Hara]

I told you. Mike Waring.

[Michael Waring]

Oh, yeah? Yeah. Well, what's he want? I wanted to talk to you, Joey, and so does Sergeant Corbett. Why don't you come along with me? What do you want to talk about? Viking. Oh, that little. I don't want to talk about her.

[Joey O'Hara]

You don't have to talk, Joey. Wait till I get your lawyer, huh?

[Michael Waring]

Lawyer? What for?

[Joey O'Hara]

They want to pin the murder on you. Don't you understand?

[Michael Waring]

What murder?

[Joey O'Hara]

Vicky's.

[Michael Waring]

Vicky's. Has Vicky been.

[Joey O'Hara]

Didn't you know?

[Michael Waring]

Who did it?

[Joey O'Hara]

Hey, hey, let go.

[Michael Waring]

Who did it?

[Joey O'Hara]

I don't know.

[Michael Waring]

That's enough, Joey.

[Joey O'Hara]

Stop it.

[Michael Waring]

Stay out of this, Mr. Waring. I will when I get you out of it. Now let him go. All right, let him go. It's the difference. Vicky's dead, huh? Wanna talk about it? Got nothing to say? I think you better go see Sergeant Corbett just the same. Police? Yeah, why not?

[Joey O'Hara]

Joey. Joey, you don't understand. They'll say you did it.

[Michael Waring]

Let him say. I don't care. Vicki's dead, huh? I don't know. Did I love her? Did I hate her? Come on, mister. All right, Joey.

[Joey O'Hara]

No, Joey, wait.

[Michael Waring]

I'll see you later.

[Joey O'Hara]

Well, at least don't say anything, Joey. Not until I get your lawyer. I'll get one down there right away. Ah, that crazy. Jake.

[Michael Waring]

How are you?

[Ken Floyd]

I put down that phone. Lesson, huh?

[Joey O'Hara]

Who you?

[Ken Floyd]

Ken Floyd, friend of Vicki's. Joey left the back door open, so I come in.

[Joey O'Hara]

What do you want?

[Ken Floyd]

Save you the cost of a phone call and lawyer fee. Put down the phone.

[Joey O'Hara]

I got a call.

[Ken Floyd]

Put it down.

[Joey O'Hara]

Wait a minute. Be careful with that gun.

[Ken Floyd]

All right, you be Careful, too. Just do like I tell you.

[Joey O'Hara]

Yeah, I will.

[Ken Floyd]

That's better.

[Joey O'Hara]

What do you want, Floyd?

[Ken Floyd]

I told you. To keep you from wasting your money. No use hiring a lawyer to protect somebody else's fighter, is there?

[Joey O'Hara]

I don't know what you mean. Joey signed with me.

[Ken Floyd]

So you say. But you can't prove it without a contract.

[Joey O'Hara]

I've got a contract.

[Ken Floyd]

Yes, but it's not on record yet.

[Joey O'Hara]

All right, it will be.

[Ken Floyd]

I don't think so. You and I are going down to your office. You're gonna open up the safe.

[Joey O'Hara]

Wait a minute. Who you working for? Whitcomb?

[Ken Floyd]

I make it a point never to work for anybody except Ken Floyd. I figure your copies of the contract ought to be worth a nice piece of change to Whitcomb. So we can destroy him. Sign up Joey himself.

[Joey O'Hara]

Well, maybe Whitcomb won't be interested. There's a murder rap hanging over Joey's head.

[Ken Floyd]

You were ready to spend money on lawyers. I should think Whitcomb would be too. And on the contracts, Joey's worth the risk.

[Joey O'Hara]

I see. How much do you expect Whitcomb to pay for the contract?

[Ken Floyd]

Why do you want it?

[Joey O'Hara]

Something I might.

[Michael Waring]

Good. Good.

[Ken Floyd]

I don't care who I deal with as long as the price is right. But there's no use peddling contracts until I got them. So let's get moving, Lassiter.

[Michael Waring]

Now, back to the Adventures of the Falcon. It's the day after Ken Floyd took over Joey o' Hara's contract at gunpoint. He's put it up for sale, weighed his offers, and now he's closing the deal with the highest bidder.

[Ken Floyd]

8008-509009-50000. All right, Whitcomb, that makes it an even 10 grand.

[Walter Whitcomb]

Well, Floyd, now the contracts.

[Ken Floyd]

Here you are, Whitcomb.

[Michael Waring]

Good.

[Ken Floyd]

That's what Lassiter gets. Would be in a cheapskate.

[Walter Whitcomb]

Now, first to get rid of these.

[Ken Floyd]

Oh, here, use my lighter.

[Michael Waring]

Thanks.

[Walter Whitcomb]

Well, there they go. Up in smoke. That's a beautiful sight.

[Ken Floyd]

But you're gonna burn the table.

[Michael Waring]

No, no.

[Walter Whitcomb]

I'll throw them in a grate. And now that I can do business with Joey again, I'd better see how things are getting along.

[Ken Floyd]

There's no use my hanging around. So long, Witkin.

[Walter Whitcomb]

Goodbye, Fl.

[Michael Waring]

Hello.

[Walter Whitcomb]

Is that the Falcon?

[Michael Waring]

Yes, this is the Falcon speaking.

[Walter Whitcomb]

Well, this is Walter Whitcomb.

[Michael Waring]

Mm.

[Walter Whitcomb]

I understand you picked up Joey o'.

[Michael Waring]

Hara. That's right.

[Walter Whitcomb]

And do the police think he's guilty?

[Michael Waring]

They're not sure. Why?

[Walter Whitcomb]

I find I made a mistake about him. And Laster, I'm in a position to deal with Joey after all. So naturally, I'd like to see him cleared. According to the paper, he didn't tell the police anything damaging.

[Michael Waring]

He didn't tell them anything, period. So they were holding him until he felt a more conversational mood.

[Walter Whitcomb]

You say we're holding him. Does that mean he's been released?

[Michael Waring]

Not exactly. I'm afraid I have bad news for you, Whitcomb.

[Walter Whitcomb]

What do you mean?

[Michael Waring]

Well, I just got word Joey killed himself in his cell half an hour ago.

[Ken Floyd]

Nine hundred. Nine hundred and fifty.

[Michael Waring]

A thousand.

[Ken Floyd]

Well, that does it, Lassiter. And even 10 grand.

[Joey O'Hara]

All right, now let's have the contract.

[Walter Whitcomb]

Floyd.

[Ken Floyd]

Yeah? The photostats, the proof Joey signed with you.

[Michael Waring]

Uh huh.

[Joey O'Hara]

And now. Just a second, Floyd. Oh, you again. Wary.

[Michael Waring]

Lassiter. Who's your friend?

[Joey O'Hara]

That's Ken, Floyd.

[Michael Waring]

Oh, good. I've been wanting to meet him. You can ask me in.

[Joey O'Hara]

Looks like you're asking yourself that. What'd you come here for, Wary?

[Michael Waring]

Well, you were trying to protect Joey before because you figured to cash in on him. But now that he can't be of any more use to you.

[Joey O'Hara]

What do you mean, can't be of any more use to me?

[Michael Waring]

Now that he's dead.

[Joey O'Hara]

What?

[Michael Waring]

Yes. Didn't you know he killed himself?

[Joey O'Hara]

Floyd, did you know about this?

[Ken Floyd]

Oh, Lassiter. Sir, Help me.

[Michael Waring]

What's Floyd got to do with it?

[Ken Floyd]

Nothing. Wearing it.

[Joey O'Hara]

I'll settle with you later, Floyd.

[Michael Waring]

Maybe I will too. But first, Lassiter, can you tell me anything about Joey you didn't tell me before?

[Joey O'Hara]

Wait a minute. How do I know this isn't a bluff about him being dead?

[Michael Waring]

Turn on the radio. You'll hear it on the news.

[Joey O'Hara]

Well, all right, Waring, so it's on the level. But what do you expect me to tell you about Joey?

[Michael Waring]

Anything that might tie him to the murder.

[Joey O'Hara]

Well, doesn't a suicide do it?

[Michael Waring]

Not entirely. And I've got a client to clear it.

[Joey O'Hara]

Well, I know Joey threatened Vicky, but that doesn't say he killed her.

[Michael Waring]

How do you know he threatened her?

[Joey O'Hara]

Well, she called me about four in the morning. Said he was banging on a door to her bedroom, trying to get in. I had to go over and drag him away. Maybe he went back, but I don't know how you're gonna prove it.

[Michael Waring]

Maybe we won't have to. There's a good chance.

[Joey O'Hara]

Hey, wait a minute. Where's Floyd?

[Michael Waring]

Looks like he slipped out the back way while we were talking.

[Joey O'Hara]

We gotta get him. He's got Ken Grandem on.

[Michael Waring]

We'll get him. At first we're going to headquarters.

[Joey O'Hara]

Why?

[Michael Waring]

To give Corbett our proof.

[Joey O'Hara]

But I told you, I don't have.

[Michael Waring]

Proof that Joey killed Vicki. I know that, but we have proof that you did. Huh? Sure, Lassiter. You killed Vicki. So let's go tell Corbett about it. Waring, there's just one thing. I want to know why Lassiter killed Vicki. Well, I'll tell you, Corbett. He was using Vicki to work on Joey for him. But he found out that she was taking her work too seriously. She really fell for Joey. And Lassiter killed her in a jealous rage. No, that's not what I wanted to ask. Oh, you wonder how I knew that Lassiter was the murderer? Well, he said Vicky phoned him from her room at 4 in the morning. But the desk in her apartment house is closed from midnight to 8 and calls have to go through the desk. So she couldn't have phoned at 4. Yeah, but that's still not so. I knew Lassiter was lying. He was trying to throw suspicion on Joey and at the same time explained what he was doing at Vicki's in case anyone saw him going there that night. All right, all right, Waring. But now will you just answer one thing? Sure, Corbett. You told me you turned down the case. And still I find you involved with Joey Lassiter, Wichita and Floyd. Go ahead, explain that. Well, it's really very simple, Corbett. There's only one trouble. Yeah? What's that? You wouldn't believe me. Oh. Good night, Corbett.