The Falcon: The Case of the Curious Cop 05/20/1951

Summary

Summary of "The Falcon: The Case of the Curious Cop" | Choice Classic Radio Detectives

Introduction

In the May 20, 1951 episode of Choice Classic Radio Detectives titled "The Falcon: The Case of the Curious Cop," listeners are transported to the gritty underbelly of New York City’s law enforcement and gambling scenes. Hosted by Choice Classic Radio, this episode features the iconic detective, The Falcon, as he unravels a complex web of corruption, deceit, and murder involving his colleagues within the police force.

Setting the Scene

The story opens on a late Sunday evening at Hunter’s renowned gambling club on East 84th Street, which despite being closed for the night, attracts the attention of plainclothes officers Jack Craven and Frank Walsh. Their intent is to investigate Mr. Hunter’s operations, suspecting foul play linked to gambling activities.

Key Characters Introduced

• The Falcon (Mike Waring): The perceptive and relentless detective determined to uncover the truth behind his friend’s disappearance.
• Jack Craven: A dedicated plainclothes officer whose mysterious disappearance sets off the investigation.
• Frank Walsh: Craven’s partner, revealed to be a corrupt detective involved in shady dealings.
• Sergeant Corbett: A high-ranking, seemingly respectable officer who harbors dark secrets.
• Mr. Hunter: Owner of the gambling club and central figure in the unfolding mystery.
• Hazel Walsh: Frank Walsh’s wife, who becomes a pivotal character in the investigation.

Plot Development

As the episode progresses, the Falcon becomes deeply involved in the case of Jack Craven’s disappearance. Early interactions suggest tension between the officers and Mr. Hunter:

• [04:05] Mr. Hunter: "Come on in, Brock. If you get to a second. You're not Brock. No, my name is Craven."

The Falcon quickly discerns that something is amiss, noting discrepancies in Sergeant Corbett’s and Frank Walsh’s statements. Walsh’s erratic behavior and vague responses raise red flags:

• [06:36] Hazel Walsh: "Then why did they suspend you from the force?"
• [06:38] Jack Craven: "Because they're a bunch of thick-headed jerks."

As the investigation deepens, the Falcon uncovers that Frank Walsh is not the upright cop he appears to be. Hazel Walsh accuses Frank of being involved in her husband’s disappearance:

• [07:39] Mr. Hunter: "But I didn’t kill Frank, Mr. Waring."

Climactic Revelations

Through meticulous deduction, The Falcon pieces together the puzzle, leading to a shocking revelation that Sergeant Corbett is the true culprit behind the murders of both Jack Craven and Frank Walsh. The Falcon confronts Corbett, who inadvertently reveals his guilt in a staged suicide note found on Hunter’s body:

• [21:05] Sergeant Corbett: "To whom it may concern. I killed Jack Craven and Frank Walsh."

Further interrogation exposes Corbett’s motive to eliminate threats within the force and secure his illicit operations. The Falcon's sharp instincts and keen observation skills expose the depth of corruption:

• [25:01] The Falcon: "Brock, you killed Walsh and Hunter."

Resolution

With Corbett’s confession and the evidence meticulously laid out, The Falcon ensures that justice is served. Hazel Walsh expresses her gratitude to The Falcon for uncovering the truth:

• [25:14] Hazel Walsh: "I don't know how I can ever repay you, Mark."
• [25:16] The Falcon: "Oh, forget it, Hazel. I'm only glad it ended the way it did."

The episode concludes with The Falcon reflecting on the lessons learned, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based investigation:

• [26:56] The Falcon: "There's one thing I've learned from this case. Never to believe any testimony based on hearsay evidence."

Conclusion

"The Case of the Curious Cop" masterfully intertwines themes of loyalty, corruption, and the relentless pursuit of truth. Through engaging dialogue and a tightly woven plot, The Falcon exemplifies the quintessential detective's journey in the Golden Age of Radio. This episode not only entertains but also highlights the complexities of justice within a flawed system, leaving listeners both satisfied and contemplative.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• [05:35] Jack Craven: "I have no idea."
• [10:03] The Falcon: "You think he's dead?"
• [16:00] Sergeant Corbett: "You know it's not polite to peek at keyholes."
• [21:17] Ed Herlihy: "Tomorrow when you shop, don't forget about that wonderful new Kraft salad oil..."
• [25:01] The Falcon: "Brock, you killed Walsh and Hunter."
• [26:56] The Falcon: "There's one thing I've learned from this case. Never to believe any testimony based on hearsay evidence."

Final Thoughts

"The Falcon: The Case of the Curious Cop" stands as a testament to the classic detective genre, offering a rich narrative that captivates and engages. With its intricate plot and memorable characters, this episode remains a beloved installment for old-time radio enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Transcript

[Podcast Host]

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[The Falcon]

Hello? Yes, this is the Falcon speaking. Oh Norma, I'm glad you called. You'll have to include me out tonight, angel. I'm all jammed up. There's a party around who's been shown how to parlay a 2 bit pocket knife into a killing, so naturally he's going to make a stab at it.

[Ed Herlihy]

This is Ed Herlihy, friends, inviting you on behalf of the Kraft Foods Company to listen to the Adventures of the Falcon starring Les Damon. 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 solves the case of the curious cop. In just a moment, another thrilling adventure of the Falcon. But first, a word about an adventure you can have any day in the week, right in your own kitchen. For several weeks now we've been telling you on this program about Kraft Salad Oil, the wonderful new salad oil created by Kraft that's lighter bodied because it's super fine. Now here's a suggestion. Tomorrow go to your grocer's and get a pint or quart bottle of Kraft Salad Oil. Look up your favorite recipe for homemade salad dressing, chiffon cake, or anything else that requires liquid Shortening. Then that night. Tomorrow night at dinner, surprise your family with an old favorite. Made this lighter bodied, super fine salad oil Way you'll know the difference and so will the family get craft salad oil. And now, the case of the Curious Cop. It's late Sunday evening in New York and Hunter's famed gambling club on East 84th is closed for the night. But that doesn't seem to deter plain clothesman Jack Craven or his partner, Frank Walsh from their decision to look in on Mr. Hunter.

[Jack Craven]

You ask me, Craven, we're wasting our time.

[Frank Walsh]

You think so, Frank?

[The Falcon]

Sure.

[Jack Craven]

Hunter's probably gone.

[Frank Walsh]

What about that light we saw from the outside?

[Jack Craven]

Must have forgotten to turn it off.

[Frank Walsh]

No, not Mr. Hunter. He watches his pennies. Five will get you ten he's still here. Counting the tig. Where was the light coming from?

[Jack Craven]

This room here, I think. Yeah?

[Frank Walsh]

Then this must be the office.

[The Falcon]

Want me to go in with you?

[Frank Walsh]

No, you wait out here. If you hear any commotion, get back.

[The Falcon]

To the car, understand? Right.

[Mr. Hunter]

Come on in, Brock. If you get to a second. You're not Brock. No, my name is Craven.

[Frank Walsh]

Mr. Hunter.

[Mr. Hunter]

What are you doing here?

[Frank Walsh]

Ever see one of these before?

[Mr. Hunter]

It's a badge, isn't it?

[Frank Walsh]

Also known as a buzzer or a potsy.

[Ed Herlihy]

So?

[Frank Walsh]

So I don't like people running gambling houses on my beat.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I see.

[Ed Herlihy]

Especially without consulting me.

[Mr. Hunter]

And suppose I did consult you?

[Frank Walsh]

Well, that might be different. Now, if you were to consult me, say, once a week with 500 bucks.

[Mr. Hunter]

You'd have no objections at all?

[The Falcon]

No.

[Frank Walsh]

Live and let live is my motto.

[Mr. Hunter]

$500 is a lot of money, Mr. Craven.

[Frank Walsh]

Well, I can be a lot of trouble, Mr. Hunter.

[Mr. Hunter]

Suppose I had you reported to the commissioner?

[Frank Walsh]

You'd be wasting your time. They've been trying to get rid of me for years. But they never could get anybody to testify against me.

[Mr. Hunter]

Maybe I'd be willing to.

[Frank Walsh]

Are you kidding? You don't like publicity any more in your racket than I do in mine. You better give in, Hunter. I can make an awful nuisance of myself.

[Mr. Hunter]

I can see that. All right, Craven, don't move.

[Frank Walsh]

Now, what do you think you're gonna do with that gun?

[Mr. Hunter]

Something the police commissioner couldn't do. I'm going to get rid of you, Craven.

[Frank Walsh]

Now listen, Hunter, if you don't put away that rod, I'll break you in two.

[Mr. Hunter]

There you are, Craven. I mean that.

[Jack Craven]

Give me another bottle, Hazel. This one's gone, but thank you. Pete's sake, can't a man get anything in his own home without A million arguments.

[Ed Herlihy]

Now get it. All right.

[Jack Craven]

Oh, wait, wait a minute. Answer that first. If it's Sergeant Corbett, tell him I'm still sick and the doctor says I can't see anybody.

[Hazel Walsh]

Hello?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Mrs. Walsh?

[Hazel Walsh]

That's right.

[Sergeant Corbett]

This is Sergeant Corbett again.

[Hazel Walsh]

Oh, how are you, Sergeant?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Can't complain. How's Frank?

[Hazel Walsh]

Just the same.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Can I talk to him?

[Hazel Walsh]

I'm afraid not. He's asleep.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Okay. Tell him I called, will you?

[Hazel Walsh]

I certainly will, Sergeant. Well, I think he's suspicious.

[Jack Craven]

What? He can't prove anything.

[Hazel Walsh]

What's all this about, Frank?

[Jack Craven]

What's what all about?

[Hazel Walsh]

Why are you avoiding Corbett? Ever since the night Craven disappeared.

[Jack Craven]

I told you I didn't want to talk about that.

[Hazel Walsh]

But you were with him.

[Jack Craven]

I was not. Craven got out of a car to see somebody. He left me on Lexington in 84th. I never saw him after that.

[Hazel Walsh]

Then why did they suspend you from the force?

[Jack Craven]

Because they're a bunch of thick headed jerks.

[Hazel Walsh]

Frank. You're not telling the truth.

[Jack Craven]

You call me a liar? All right, Hazel. So you want to know what happened to Craven, do you? Well, I'll tell you. He was murdered.

[Hazel Walsh]

No.

[Ed Herlihy]

Yes.

[Jack Craven]

Now do you feel better?

[Hazel Walsh]

Who did it?

[Jack Craven]

I have no idea.

[Hazel Walsh]

Then how do you know he was murdered?

[Jack Craven]

I'm psychic.

[Hazel Walsh]

Frank, you've got to tell Sergeant Corby.

[Ed Herlihy]

You're nuts.

[Hazel Walsh]

If you don't, they'll drop you from the force.

[Ed Herlihy]

Who cares?

[Hazel Walsh]

I do. What'll we live on?

[Jack Craven]

Don't you worry about that, Hazel. From now on it's easy street.

[Hazel Walsh]

Then you do know who killed Craven?

[Jack Craven]

That's right. I bet this party will appreciate me keeping my mouth shut.

[Hazel Walsh]

You're not thinking of blackmail?

[Jack Craven]

What am I thinking of, baby? Where's my coat?

[Hazel Walsh]

No, I won't let you go.

[Jack Craven]

Get your pants off me. Hazel.

[Hazel Walsh]

No pranks.

[Ed Herlihy]

I said get your hands off.

[Hazel Walsh]

Stop it, Frank. You're choking me. Frank.

[Mr. Hunter]

Yes?

[Ed Herlihy]

I hate to break in on you.

[The Falcon]

Like this, Mr. Hunter, but there's a.

[Ed Herlihy]

Party outside waiting to see.

[Mr. Hunter]

I'm busy, Brock.

[Ed Herlihy]

Yes, I know, but I suggest you clear a little time for this boy. I would if I were in your position.

[Mr. Hunter]

But then you're not in my position, Brock.

[Ed Herlihy]

Oh, that's true.

[The Falcon]

Just the same, you ought to see him.

[Ed Herlihy]

His name is Frank Walsh. He's a cop.

[Mr. Hunter]

So?

[Ed Herlihy]

So he was Jack Craven's sidekick.

[Mr. Hunter]

Craven?

[Ed Herlihy]

The dick who disappeared so mysteriously.

[Mr. Hunter]

Oh, of course.

[The Falcon]

Will you see him?

[Mr. Hunter]

What have I got to lose?

[Ed Herlihy]

Hey, Walsh.

[The Falcon]

Yep.

[Ed Herlihy]

Come in.

[Mr. Hunter]

Sit down, Mr. Walsh. My name is Hunter.

[Jack Craven]

Never mind the introduction, Hunter. I know all about you.

[Mr. Hunter]

Not all. I trust all.

[Jack Craven]

When can I talk to you?

[Mr. Hunter]

What do you call what you're doing now?

[Jack Craven]

I mean alone.

[Mr. Hunter]

Would you be a good fellow, Brian?

[Ed Herlihy]

Why not? Nice knowing you want they're like.

[Mr. Hunter]

Now, what was it you had on your mind, Mr. Walsh?

[Ed Herlihy]

Last Saturday after you closed, you had.

[The Falcon]

A visitor up here.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Did I?

[Ed Herlihy]

Yeah.

[Jack Craven]

Yeah, a dick named Jack Craven.

[Mr. Hunter]

And you think I know something about his disappearance?

[Jack Craven]

I think you know everything about it. You see, I was outside when Craven went in to shake you down. A few minutes afterward I heard a.

[The Falcon]

Shot, so I beat it to the car.

[Jack Craven]

But 20 minutes later I saw you.

[Ed Herlihy]

Coming out of here alone.

[Mr. Hunter]

So you put two and two together and got four.

[Jack Craven]

You killed him, Hunter. I don't know what you did with his body.

[Mr. Hunter]

Then you might as well stop there, Mr. Walsh. Didn't you ever learn that to substantiate a charge of murder. There must be what the pulp writers call a corpus delicta?

[Jack Craven]

Now look, Hunter, you're not brushing me off like this. We can settle this easily enough. I'm no pig like some guys. Give me 20 grand and you'll never hear from me again.

[Mr. Hunter]

I think it would be only fair to warn you, Mr. Walsh, that I have a distinct aversion to being blackmailed.

[Jack Craven]

Well, you better kick through, cuz if it's the last thing I do, I'll find Craven's body.

[Ed Herlihy]

I wish you luck. And if you experience too much difficulty.

[Mr. Hunter]

Perhaps I can arrange to have you join him.

[Ed Herlihy]

Good day.

[The Falcon]

What's the matter, Sergeant?

[Ed Herlihy]

You look worried.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I am, Mike.

[The Falcon]

Still thinking about that Craven mess?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yeah, that cheap, rotten grafter.

[The Falcon]

Well, if you ask me, you've heard the last of that cookie.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I wouldn't be surprised if you were right.

[The Falcon]

You think he's dead?

[Sergeant Corbett]

I don't know. Maybe he's skipped. Who knows?

[The Falcon]

It's funny about Frank Walsh having a nervous breakdown so soon afterwards.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Very funny. Turn right at the next corner.

[The Falcon]

Where do you want to go?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Over to see Frank Walsh. He lives a couple of blocks down.

[Ed Herlihy]

Didn't his wife tell you he's sick?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Doctor's orders are not. I'm going to have a talk with that guy. Hey, hold it. Mike, stop the car.

[The Falcon]

What's the matter?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Thought I saw something in the gutter. Back up.

[Ed Herlihy]

No.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I guess I was the sergeant. Yeah. Turn on your spotlight.

[The Falcon]

That's a drunk.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Wouldn't you know it? Okay, let's get him. Can't leave him laying there. All right, mister. What do you think you're doing? Come on, on your feet, buster. Give me a hand with him, Mike.

[Jack Craven]

There we go.

[The Falcon]

Drunk. Look at your hand.

[Ed Herlihy]

Holy.

[The Falcon]

Yeah, he's been shot. Yes?

[Hazel Walsh]

I'm looking for Michael Waring. The Falcons.

[The Falcon]

Well, you made it.

[Hazel Walsh]

What?

[The Falcon]

But I bet it was pretty difficult. What do you mean? You couldn't do much looking through that veil. Come on in.

[Hazel Walsh]

Thanks.

[The Falcon]

Just make yourself.

[Hazel Walsh]

What's the trouble?

[The Falcon]

Well, I was going to ask you to make yourself comfortable, but somehow I've got a feeling you don't quite trust me.

[Hazel Walsh]

I don't trust you?

[The Falcon]

Why else would you carry a gun in your purse?

[Hazel Walsh]

What are you talking about?

[The Falcon]

Well, don't tell me it's a compact angel. Cause nothing Elizabeth Arden ever turned out was shaped like that. Is that the gun that killed Frank Walsh?

[Hazel Walsh]

Killed Walsh?

[The Falcon]

Yeah, your husband.

[Hazel Walsh]

You're crazy, aren't you?

[The Falcon]

Hazel Walsh?

[Hazel Walsh]

No.

[Frank Walsh]

No.

[The Falcon]

Lift your veil.

[Hazel Walsh]

Well, who told you who I was?

[The Falcon]

It doesn't take an Einstein to figure that out. The police are looking for Hazel Walsh in connection to her husband's murder. So when a heavily veiled woman carrying a heater walks in on a private detective 12 hours later, the chances are she didn't come to consult him for pleasure.

[Hazel Walsh]

I didn't kill Frank, Mr. Waring.

[The Falcon]

I was with Sergeant Corbett and we found him. He named you as his killer.

[Hazel Walsh]

I didn't do it.

[The Falcon]

You had a motive.

[Hazel Walsh]

If you mean his insurance policy, I'm.

[The Falcon]

Not talking about money. According to Corbett, Frank's favorite indoor sport was bouncing you around.

[Hazel Walsh]

That's not true.

[The Falcon]

It'll be easy enough to prove.

[Hazel Walsh]

Look, Mr. Waring, I swear I didn't kill Frank.

[The Falcon]

Then you've got nothing to hide.

[Hazel Walsh]

Who are you calling?

[The Falcon]

Sergeant Corbett. Going over and have a talk with him.

[Hazel Walsh]

Put down that phone.

[The Falcon]

Now. Look, Mrs. Wall.

[Hazel Walsh]

Put it down.

[The Falcon]

You want me to work for you?

[Hazel Walsh]

No thanks. I've just changed my mind.

[The Falcon]

Look, you're acting like a six year old. I'm going to call the police.

[Hazel Walsh]

I say you're going to do nothing of the kind. See what I mean? Pleasant dreams, Mr. War. It's lighter bodied. It's super fine.

[Ed Herlihy]

It's craft salad oil. The first salad oil ever offered for your home use by the makers of all those wonderful Kraft Salad Dressing products. When the Kraft Foods Company puts a new product on the market, you can be sure that it's not just another product of its kind, but that there's something really new and different about it. And that's exactly what you'll discover in Kraft Salad Oil. Not just a new salad oil, but a new Kind of salad oil. Craft salad oil is a lighter bodied oil. Lighter bodied to blend smoothly and perfectly with the other ingredients. And the reason craft salad oil is lighter bodied is that it's super fine. Yes, super fined by a special process created by craft. Don't wait to try this wonderful new salad oil in those distinctive homemade salad dressings you make. Those wonderful chiffon cakes you bake in every recipe you have that requires liquid shortening.

[Hazel Walsh]

Remember, it's lighter bodied, it's super fine.

[Ed Herlihy]

And it's at your grocer's. Now get craft salad oil in either the plank or quart size. Tomorrow look for the bottles with the beautiful labels. Now back to the adventures of the Vulcan. Three hours have passed since Mike was lulled to sleep by Hale Walsh. And now as we find Mike, he's recuperating in Ed's luncheonette under the tender administrations of Sergeant Corbett.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Hey, how about some service here, Sergeant? Cup of java for me and a couple of Aspen for my friend here.

[Ed Herlihy]

What's the matter, Mike?

[The Falcon]

Got a headache?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yes. Temper, temper.

[The Falcon]

I get my hands on that Hazel Wall and.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You're not going to work for her.

[Ed Herlihy]

Of course I am.

[The Falcon]

Just want to teach her.

[Ed Herlihy]

You don't go around slugging people who are trying to help.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You're making a mistake.

[The Falcon]

Oh no. Look, Sergeant, I tell you she didn't kill her husband.

[Sergeant Corbett]

And why did she pop you when you were going to call me?

[Ed Herlihy]

Well, because she was panicking.

[Sergeant Corbett]

That still doesn't explain why Frank named her as his killer.

[The Falcon]

But he didn't really. He said something about 20 grand. Maybe he wanted to leave a message for her.

[Sergeant Corbett]

About 20 grand?

[Ed Herlihy]

Why not?

[The Falcon]

Suppose he was trying to tell us something.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You're crazy.

[The Falcon]

Look, Sergeant Walsh was a grafter.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I don't like that kind of talk.

[The Falcon]

I don't blame you. But you got to face the facts. There are always a couple of rotten apples in every barrel. How many times have you had Frank Walsh and Jack Craven on the carpet? You just couldn't make a stick, that's all.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Go on.

[The Falcon]

Now my guess is that Walsh tried to shake down Hunter and pay off.

[Sergeant Corbett]

From Hunter just to let him keep running his joint.

[Ed Herlihy]

He wouldn't.

[The Falcon]

Quiet.

[Sergeant Corbett]

What are you talking about?

[The Falcon]

Walsh must have known who murdered Jack Craven. Well, he went there last night for payoff. Got it?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, assuming you're right, now all we have to do is find the one party in New York he tried it on.

[The Falcon]

That shouldn't be so hard, Corbett. There was Walters and Cravens beat the.

[Sergeant Corbett]

East side from 76th, 85th.

[The Falcon]

Nine blocks. All right, who's operating a new joint in that district?

[Sergeant Corbett]

What makes you think this is a new operator?

[The Falcon]

Human nature. Once a man allows himself to be shaken down, the odds are he'll go on that way without squawking. So my guess would be that Craven got his when he tried his graft on the new customer.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You know, Mike, sometimes I think you've got the makings of a pretty good detective.

[The Falcon]

Well, thank you. And when did Craven disappear?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Four days ago.

[The Falcon]

Okay, then we can narrow it down even finer. Craven would probably give this boy a chance to operate a week or two so he'd have some idea what to charge. Now, who do you know that opened a joint around the middle of March?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, I heard rumors a guy named Hunter opened a club around the 14th. But every time a raiding party gets near the place, they fold up their tables and run.

[The Falcon]

Okay, let's see.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Come on, Mike, get away from that wheel.

[The Falcon]

Let me tell you about my assistant some other time.

[Sergeant Corbett]

See any sign of.

[The Falcon]

Where is it? I think you still are. That room down the hall. Want me to flash my badge? No, let's keep this unofficial for a moment. You can close up the joint tomorrow. We've got a murder to worry about.

[Ed Herlihy]

Come in.

[The Falcon]

Hello, Brock.

[Ed Herlihy]

Well, well. The Falcon, isn't it?

[The Falcon]

Are we interrupting anything?

[Ed Herlihy]

Nothing that can't wait. Oh, who's your friend?

[The Falcon]

Mike? Sorry. Mr. Brock, Mr. Corbett. Hi. Glad to know. Well, what can I do for you gentlemen? We'd like to see a Hunter. And what for? I just want to congratulate him on the establishment he's got here. I'll tell him when I see him. Could you arrange for us to do that? I'm afraid not.

[Ed Herlihy]

Hunter's out of town.

[The Falcon]

Any idea where?

[Ed Herlihy]

No, I think he said he might take a little run down to Mexico.

[The Falcon]

When was this? About a week ago. Funny, I would have sworn I saw him in the street Friday night.

[Ed Herlihy]

What?

[The Falcon]

You're emerging things must be. Of course, if he's been gone a week, he wouldn't know anything about Walsh and Craven, huh?

[Ed Herlihy]

Walsh and Craven.

[The Falcon]

Those two cops who ran into bad luck.

[Ed Herlihy]

Oh, seems to me I read something about that.

[The Falcon]

Of course, that's all you'd know about it, huh?

[Mr. Hunter]

Of course.

[The Falcon]

Well, thanks a lot, Brock. Happy seeing you.

[Ed Herlihy]

Yes, do that.

[The Falcon]

Coming over? Oh, sure, sure.

[Ed Herlihy]

So long, Brock.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Boy, you really handle that brilliantly.

[The Falcon]

Shut up. Listen, Mike, head up and cover me in case anyone comes.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You know it's not polite to peek at keyholes.

[The Falcon]

I know, but it can be awfully informative. What's he doing? Making a phone call.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Who's he calling?

[The Falcon]

Well, if you keep quiet, I'll find out.

[Ed Herlihy]

Hello?

[The Falcon]

Is that you, Mr. Hunter? This is Brock.

[Ed Herlihy]

No, business is all right, but some of the customers could be better. You know who was just asking for you? Waring? Yes, that's right. Mike Waring. The Falcon. And there was a cop with him. Of course.

[The Falcon]

I'm not making a mistake.

[Ed Herlihy]

You ask me.

[The Falcon]

Wait a minute. Someone just walk in. It's all right, Brock. It's only us. Told you we'd be back. Oh, now you went and hung up on Mr. Hunter. That's not nice, Brock. He's going to be awfully hurt.

[Ed Herlihy]

What do you want wearing?

[The Falcon]

Well, I think you owe Mr. Hunter an apology. And what would be nicer than if we all went over together while you paid it? All right, Brock, what floor does Hunter live on?

[Ed Herlihy]

4, but you won't find him there.

[Sergeant Corbett]

That's right, Mike. We forgot Hunter down in Mexico.

[Ed Herlihy]

Okay, be smart. But I tell you, I wasn't speaking to him.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Cut it out, Brock. We heard you as plain as could be.

[Ed Herlihy]

You're wrong. I was talking to a girlfriend of.

[The Falcon]

Mine whose name, by an odd coincidence, was Mr. Hunter. Okay, where do we go now?

[Ed Herlihy]

It's apartment 4C.

[The Falcon]

Hold on. That should be it. Sure enough. Walter Hunter. All right, Sergeant, where are your keys?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Suppose he's inside?

[The Falcon]

No, not a chance. Must have skipped after Brock here warned him.

[Ed Herlihy]

But I don't think he could get.

[The Falcon]

Too far in those 10 minutes.

[Sergeant Corbett]

He got far enough, Mike.

[The Falcon]

Hey, what's the matter with him? Well, if you don't know, Brock, take a good look at his face. That bullet hole ought to be a dead giveaway.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Holy smokes. All right, Mike, out of the way.

[The Falcon]

What's the matter?

[Sergeant Corbett]

I want to see where Hunter was standing when he got it. Judging by the course of the bullet, he.

[The Falcon]

Well, what do you know? Hey, there's a gun under the chair.

[Ed Herlihy]

Where?

[Sergeant Corbett]

The one you're sitting on. Brock.

[Ed Herlihy]

What?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Leave it alone. There may be prints.

[Ed Herlihy]

Okay.

[The Falcon]

Isn't that a police special?

[Ed Herlihy]

Yeah.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I'll take even money that it's Frank Walsh's service revolver. His wife was awfully careless, Mike.

[The Falcon]

Now, don't tell me you think.

[Sergeant Corbett]

What do you think?

[The Falcon]

I don't know, but at least not going around making wild guesses. How do you know it wasn't suicide?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Are you kidding?

[Ed Herlihy]

Well, it could be.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I talk like a chump. We had nothing on Hunter. Why should he blow his brains out?

[Ed Herlihy]

Well, why should Hazel Walsh do it? For him?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Maybe she figured that he knocked off her husband.

[The Falcon]

Oh, then you admit she wasn't guilty of that?

[Sergeant Corbett]

I admit.

[Ed Herlihy]

Excuse me, gentlemen, but can I get a word in?

[Sergeant Corbett]

What do you want, Brock?

[Ed Herlihy]

There's a hunk of paper on the Hunter's leg.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Oh, never mind, Mike. I'll take care of that.

[The Falcon]

What is it?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Give me a chance, will you? To whom it may concern. I killed Jack Craven and Frank Walsh.

[Ed Herlihy]

Huh?

[Sergeant Corbett]

I should like my remains to be cremated. Walter Hunter.

[The Falcon]

What do you say now, Sergeant?

[Sergeant Corbett]

I say don't sh me.

[The Falcon]

There's someone at the door.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Turn off the lights. There we are, Brock. Okay, pal, what do you want?

[Ed Herlihy]

Let go. Hey, but I said behave.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Turn on the lights, Mike.

[Jack Craven]

Fine.

[The Falcon]

Crummy looking bum. Hey, you know him?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yeah, I wish I didn't. This is Detective Jack Craven.

[The Falcon]

Jack Craven?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yeah, my long lost buddy.

[Ed Herlihy]

Tomorrow when you shop, don't forget about that wonderful new Kraft salad oil that's waiting for you at your grocers right now. It's Kraft salad oil. The salad oil that's lighter bodied to blend perfectly with other ingredients. Lighter bodied because it's super fine. Try this wonderful new aid to kitchen artistry in your homemade salad dressings. Your cooking, your baking. Remember, it's lighter bodied because it's super fine. Get craft salad oil. Look for the bottle with the beautiful label. Now back to the Adventures of the Falcon. Just five minutes have passed since Jack Craven made his dramatic entrance. And strangely enough, Sergeant Corbett doesn't seem any too pleased by his reappearance.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Come on, Craven, start spilling. I want to hear you make like Niagara.

[Frank Walsh]

I don't know what you're talking about, son.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Why you cheap. Watch it, Colby. You keep out of this, Mike. This is strictly departmental. How do you think all the other boys on the force feel? We work like dogs to make the public trust us. And along comes a rotten grafter like Craven and gives every honest cop a black eye.

[The Falcon]

All right, but there are strangers present.

[Ed Herlihy]

Oh, don't mind me, folks. I'm broad minded.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You keep your mouth shut, Brock. You know what's good for you.

[The Falcon]

I'll be as quiet as a mouse.

[Sergeant Corbett]

All right, Craven, I asked you a question.

[Ed Herlihy]

Let go.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Answer me. Why did you kill Hunter?

[Frank Walsh]

I didn't.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Oh, Then why did you come back to his apartment?

[Jack Craven]

I didn't come back.

[Frank Walsh]

That was the first time Time I was out.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Give me that.

[The Falcon]

Can I put my two cents in, Sergeant?

[Ed Herlihy]

Go ahead.

[The Falcon]

You've been gone for almost a week, Craven.

[Ed Herlihy]

Where you been?

[Frank Walsh]

Los Angeles.

[Ed Herlihy]

Why'd you go there?

[The Falcon]

None of your business.

[Ed Herlihy]

Craven.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You answer Waring's questions just as if I was asking them. Why did you go there?

[Frank Walsh]

I wanted to see my relatives.

[The Falcon]

And you certainly didn't travel in the Super Chief. From the look of it, I'd say you did most of your riding in a cattle car. What's the matter? Couldn't Hunter afford any better transportation?

[Frank Walsh]

Hunter had nothing to do with us.

[The Falcon]

Your pal Frank Walsh doesn't support your story. Walsh?

[Frank Walsh]

Did he?

[The Falcon]

Stool on me, what do you think? You had a fight with Hunter, didn't you?

[Frank Walsh]

Yeah, he plugged me.

[The Falcon]

How about?

[Sergeant Corbett]

What?

[Jack Craven]

That doesn't matter.

[Frank Walsh]

He dumped me in a cattle car. When I came to, I was in la.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Why didn't you wire us?

[Ed Herlihy]

I had no dough.

[The Falcon]

You could have done it collect.

[Frank Walsh]

I didn't want to involve the department.

[The Falcon]

Well, that's understandable. Especially if you wanted to come back to kill Hunter.

[Frank Walsh]

I tell you, I didn't kill him. I just got into town tonight.

[Sergeant Corbett]

That doesn't prove a thing. Where were you at 10:15?

[Frank Walsh]

Why?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Because according to the coroner's report I just got, that's when Hunter was killed. Listen, son, start that suicide routine again. Mike, if Hunter wrote that note, he would have known darn well he hadn't killed Craven. Here, where were you at 10:15, Craven?

[Ed Herlihy]

Being chased all over the freight yards.

[Sergeant Corbett]

By some railroad dicks, lad. If you don't believe me, you can.

[Ed Herlihy]

Call the odds and check.

[Sergeant Corbett]

And don't think I won't.

[The Falcon]

Just a minute, Sergeant. Does this mean you're writing off Hazel Walsh as a suspect?

[Sergeant Corbett]

No.

[Ed Herlihy]

Well, then I'd like you to double the force looking for him.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Let me understand you, Mike. You think Craven here is telling the truth?

[The Falcon]

I do.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Then Mrs. Walsh is our party.

[The Falcon]

Oh, I didn't say that.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I ask you, Brock, ain't it enough to drive a guy bats?

[The Falcon]

Oh, don't ask him. Sergeant. If this thing is driving you crazy, who do you think is responsible?

[Ed Herlihy]

Just what is that supposed to mean, Warren?

[The Falcon]

Just what it sounded like. Brock, you killed Walsh and Hunter.

[Hazel Walsh]

I don't know how I can ever repay you, Mark.

[The Falcon]

Oh, forget it, Hazel. I'm only glad it ended the way it did.

[Hazel Walsh]

So it was brought. Who killed my husband?

[The Falcon]

Yeah, but he didn't mean to frame you. He thought it would take care of Hunter. But when Frank blurted your name to Sergeant Corbett and myself, that upset his plans.

[Hazel Walsh]

But why did Brock want to frame his boss?

[The Falcon]

Hunter had a very nice thing in the club and Brock figured he was capable enough to handle it. With Hunter out of the way, I.

[Hazel Walsh]

Still don't see why he murdered Frank. According to that note, Brock thought that Hunter had killed Craven.

[The Falcon]

Yes, but that didn't do him any good because there was no trace of Craven's body. And a corpus delicti is essential in any frame. That is why it was necessary for him to supply body that would lead directly to Hunter.

[Hazel Walsh]

But Frank never even mentioned the man's name to him.

[The Falcon]

Well, Brock had no way of knowing that. Then when it looked like all his plans were going for naught, he wrote that suicide note and killed Hunter thinking that would tie up all the loose ends.

[Hazel Walsh]

Well, where did Brock give himself away?

[The Falcon]

When Sergeant Corbett and I were at the club, before we went into the office to see Brock, I asked Corbett the time. He said it was a quarter to 11. A few minutes after that, we eavesdropped on Brock talking to Hunter on the phone.

[Hazel Walsh]

What's wrong with that?

[The Falcon]

It was a conversation that never could have taken place. According to the autopsy report, Hunter was killed at 10:15 a half hour earlier.

[Hazel Walsh]

And that business on the phone was.

[The Falcon]

Staged by Brock to give himself an alibi. He felt pretty sure that Corbett and I were listening in. So does that answer all your questions? I suppose you answer one of mine. Where did you bury yourself so that the entire New York police force couldn't find you?

[Hazel Walsh]

I stayed with my sister, Lenore.

[The Falcon]

Your S?

[Hazel Walsh]

Yes.

[The Falcon]

She looked like you.

[Hazel Walsh]

She's much prettier.

[The Falcon]

Al, there's one thing I've learned from this case. Never to believe any testimony based on hearsay evidence.

[Hazel Walsh]

Well, I don't know what I can do to convince you.

[The Falcon]

No, that's very easy, angel. Just give me her address and let me see for my.

[Ed Herlihy]

Folks. Let's talk about enjoyment. That's a pleasant subject, isn't it? Specifically, I'd like to say a few words about candy enjoyment. The kind you find in Craft dairy, fresh caramels. Craft caramels are tops and delicious good eating. Here's the reason why. The Craft folks spent years developing fine caramels making them chewy, soft and flavorful. Making them good so you'd enjoy them. And Kraft caramels have plenty of nourishing milk and other pure ingredients in them. So they're good for you too. Next time you're at the grocery store, pick up a big pound bag of Kraft Caramels. And at your candy cutter, get the six piece bar for a nickel. Kraft Caramels come in regular caramel flavor and in chocolate flavor. Both flavors are delightful. The important thing to remember is this Whenever you want real candy enjoyment, be sure you get craft dairy fresh caramels the Case of the Unwelcome Wife the Case of the Unwelcome Wife that's the title of next week's Adventure of the Falcon when Mike Waring learns that when a girl pretends to be married to an already married man, the results can be murder. So be sure to listen at this same time next week to another exciting Adventure of the Falcon, brought to you by the Kraft Foods Company. The Adventures of the Falcon are based on the famous character created by Drexel Drake, produced by Bernard L. Shuberty, written today by Eugene Wang and directed by Richard Lewis. Music was by Arlo Les Damon was starred as the Falcon with Ken lynch as Sergeant Corbett. Be sure to hear the Great Gilded Sleep next Wednesday evening over most of these stations. In next Wednesday's broadcast, Gildicum's Face to Face is an hilarious problem and solves it in a way that will keep you laughing for days. Remember the show, the time and the place. The great Gilder Sleeve next Wednesday evening over most of these stations. Check your local newspaper for time of broadcast. This is Ed Hernahy speaking for the Craft Food Company. Raymond Massey and Shirley Booth star on Theater Guild tonight on NBC.

[Podcast Host]

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