The Falcon: The Case of the Falling Star 05/18/1952

Summary

Podcast Summary

Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: The Falcon: The Case of the Falling Star (05/18/1952)
Date: November 6, 2025
Host: Choice Classic Radio

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Overview

This episode features a classic installment of "The Falcon," following private detective Mike Waring as he becomes entangled in "The Case of the Falling Star." The story revolves around the downfall and murder of Ken Marlowe, a once-glamorous, now-fading film star whose financial and personal troubles put him at the center of a web involving gambling debts, a loyal-but-conflicted wife, seedy acquaintances, and an ill-advised publicity stunt—culminating in a murder for which nearly everyone is a suspect.

The tone is hard-boiled, witty, and laden with snappy dialogue, perfect for fans of mid-century detective radio.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

1. Setting the Scene: A Star on the Skids

• Ken Marlowe, former top film star, is in trouble—both career-wise and financially.
• Owes $19,000 to Jackie Howard, a gambling boss.
  • [02:16] “It’s 19.” – Jackie Howard
• Ken’s marriage to Laura Marlowe is strained, exacerbated by drinking and rumors of abuse and infidelity.

2. Publicity Gone Wrong

• Ken’s publicist, Steve Nichols, is enlisted to help save Ken’s flagging career.
• Ken proposes a fake threat on his life to drum up publicity, intending to involve The Falcon (Mike Waring) and even arrange a staged shooting.
  • [06:11] “Suppose my life was threatened.” – Ken Marlowe
  • Steve is skeptical, but Ken insists:
    [06:43] “We’re gonna handle it my way. We’ll hire the Falcon to be my bodyguard. Then you leak it to the papers. Ought to be worth a couple of columns.”

3. The Falcon Smells a Rat

• Mike Waring (The Falcon) is unconvinced by Ken's supposed threats and suspects a publicity stunt.
  • [08:13] “You sound too good to be true...the more I hear of this, the more I’m convinced Corbett was right.” – Mike Waring
• He refuses to play along, but Ken persists with his plan, hiring an old acquaintance (Tex Riley) to participate in the ruse.

4. The Stunt Turns Deadly

• The "staged" attempt turns serious when someone actually tries to shoot Ken, using what is later identified as a blank.
• The story twists when Ken is found dead after an altercation with The Falcon and a mysterious head wound.
  • [14:07] “He’s dead, Mike...He’s out for all time.” – Sgt. Corbett

5. Murder Investigation: Everyone’s a Suspect

• Mike Waring clears himself with detective work, proving the murder weapon was a liquor bottle removed from the scene.
• Motives are explored:
  • Gambling debts (Jackie Howard)
  • Resentment and financial hardship (Steve Nichols)
  • Domestic strife (Laura Marlowe)

6. Interrogations and Revelations

• Jackie Howard claims he was paid off that morning and had no motive, despite discrepancies in the financial timeline.
  • [22:00] “He paid me in cash.” – Jackie Howard
• Mrs. Marlowe professes undying loyalty to Ken, denying abuse and infidelity, despite evidence to the contrary.
  • [20:24] “He never did [hit me].” – Laura Marlowe
• Steve Nichols’ relationship with Laura is revealed as complex—rooted in brotherly concern due to a personal tragedy.
  • [18:46] “She reminded me of Edith…my kid’s sister. She was married to a boy like Ken…She’s dead.” – Steve Nichols

7. The Truth Comes Out

• After Steve is brutally beaten by Jackie Howard (who believes Steve cost him money), The Falcon pieces together that Steve is the real murderer, motivated by misguided loyalty and a savior complex regarding Laura.
  • [27:21] “He’s right, Laura.” – Steve Nichols, confessing to the murder
• Steve justifies it as “judging” for Laura’s sake, but it tragically destroys everything he intended to protect.

8. Moral Resolution

• The Falcon concludes with a bittersweet observation on justice, love, and the dangers of taking fate into one’s own hands.
  • [28:49] “Just goes to prove it’s awful dangerous to play God. You never know what’s best for other people.” – Mike Waring

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• The Falcon’s skepticism about manufactured threats:
  [08:13] “You sound too good to be true…The more I hear of this, the more I’m convinced Corbett was right.” – Mike Waring

• Ken Marlowe’s bravado:
  [02:40] “Who is the number one box office draw on 49?” – Ken Marlowe

• A glimpse into Laura’s loyalty (and possible denial):
  [20:51] “No, I understood him and that’s all that counted.” – Laura Marlowe

• Steve’s confession of motive:
  [27:29] “No, but he hurt you.” – Steve Nichols
  [27:36] “Don’t you see, honey? I was only judging for you.” – Steve Nichols

• The Falcon’s parting wisdom:
  [28:49] “Just goes to prove it’s awful dangerous to play God. You never know what’s best for other people.”

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Timestamps of Important Segments

• [00:17] – The Falcon is introduced, and Ken Marlowe's predicament is established
• [02:16] – [03:16] – Ken’s confrontation with Jackie Howard over the $19,000 debt
• [06:11] – [07:04] – Ken and Steve plot the publicity stunt
• [10:03] – [12:14] – The staged shooting attempt and revelation of the blank bullet
• [14:07] – Ken Marlowe’s death is discovered
• [15:02] – [17:07] – Mike and Sgt. Corbett investigate and find the murder weapon
• [18:46] – Steve’s backstory and emotional connection to Laura
• [20:24] – Laura’s emotional defense of Ken
• [22:00] – Jackie Howard claims the debt was paid
• [26:09] – [27:21] – Final confrontation and Steve Nichols’ confession
• [28:49] – The Falcon’s closing reflection on the dangers of “playing God”

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Conclusion

This classic radio detective drama immerses listeners in the morally ambiguous world of post-stardom Hollywood, complete with sharp dialogue, clever plotting, and a sobering lesson about the cost of intervention and misguided loyalty. The episode balances suspense, character drama, and noir-style reflections, making it a standout in the Falcon's storied run.

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For fans of vintage radio, this episode of The Falcon is a gripping tale of ambition, desperation, and the tragic consequences of trying to save others at all costs.

Transcript

[Narrator]

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

[Mike Waring]

Hello? Yes, this is the Falcon speaking. Oh, Doris, no, you have to include me out tonight. I've got to discuss an idea for a movie. No, I can't make it Angel. And I can't miss this. These characters have dreamed up the perfect switch. Instead of shooting pictures, they plan to shoot people.

[Narrator]

Once again, the National Broadcasting Company brings you the transcribed Adventures of the Falcon starring Les Damon. The Adventures of the Falcon Dedicated to private investigators everywhere those hard hitting detectives who like Mike Waring, risk their lives to aid law enforcement agencies. So join him now when the Falcon solves the case of the falling star. It's Sunday afternoon in New York and in his hotel suite, Ken Marlowe, who smashed his way to movie stardom by portraying a two fisted drinking man, is giving a sample of the performance that made him famous. Only this time, Ken isn't acting.

[Mike Waring]

I'll fix them all.

[Ken Marlowe]

When I get through those crumbs, they'll know better than the horse. Yeah, well, it's about time, fella.

[Jackie Howard]

That's what I thought too.

[Ken Marlowe]

Huh?

[Jackie Howard]

How are you, Ken?

[Ken Marlowe]

Shackie. Howard. I'm sorry, I was expecting somebody else.

[Jackie Howard]

I bet she's a lot prettier.

[Ken Marlowe]

Nothing like that. I'm here with a wife, so. Funny thing, I didn't even know you were in town. I thought I left you on the West Coast.

[Jackie Howard]

Well, haven't you heard? Trailways runs all over the country. All you gotta do is buy a ticket.

[Ken Marlowe]

Look, Jackie, I, I, I know what you want. I intended to. I intended to clean up that 15 grand I owe you before I left.

[Jackie Howard]

It's 19.

[Ken Marlowe]

15, 19, what's the difference? I'm good for it.

[Jackie Howard]

I am. Someone told me you washed up at National Pictures.

[Ken Marlowe]

They're crazy. I'm in like Flynn.

[Jackie Howard]

I'm glad to hear it. Of course, if they don't pick up your option. You see my position. As I said, you're into me for 19 grand.

[Ken Marlowe]

And as I said, I'm good for it. I can write my own ticket at any studio. Who is the number one box office draw on 49?

[Mike Waring]

You.

[Ken Marlowe]

Well, they are.

[Mike Waring]

No.

[Jackie Howard]

There you were. That was 49, Ken. Three years is like 300 in Hollywood.

[Ken Marlowe]

Look, I tell you, you got nothing to worry about. National will pick up my option on the 23rd.

[Jackie Howard]

And when can I expect you to pick up these IOUs?

[Ken Marlowe]

Look, Jackie, if You're gonna take that attitude, you can whistle for your dough. Nobody pushes me around.

[Jackie Howard]

Oh, that's right. I forgot. You're a pretty tough boy in pictures.

[Ken Marlowe]

That's right.

[Jackie Howard]

Luckily, I never go to the movies.

[Ken Marlowe]

That's the idea.

[Jackie Howard]

Let's understand each other. Ken, you owe me 19 grand. I expect to have it on the 23rd. If I don't, you'll be.

[Laura Marlowe]

Oh, darling, I'm back.

[Ken Marlowe]

Can't you say I'm busy?

[Laura Marlowe]

Laura, I'm sorry.

[Jackie Howard]

Oh, there's no need to apologize, Mrs. Marlowe. I'm Jackie Howard.

[Laura Marlowe]

How do you do? I've heard so much about you, and.

[Jackie Howard]

I wish I could say it wasn't true.

[Laura Marlowe]

Well, I'm sure I'm in the way, so if you'll excuse me.

[Jackie Howard]

Oh, no, don't bother. I was just leaving. Well, what do you say, Ken? Shall we make it for a week from Friday?

[Ken Marlowe]

I'll do my best.

[Jackie Howard]

That's all I ask. Well, this has been a real pleasure, Mrs. Marlowe. Maybe we'll meet again.

[Laura Marlowe]

I hope so.

[Jackie Howard]

Dirty bum.

[Laura Marlowe]

What was he doing here?

[Ken Marlowe]

None of your business.

[Laura Marlowe]

Darling, I don't want to make a noise like a wife, but if you owe Jackie Howard.

[Ken Marlowe]

I said it's none of your business.

[Laura Marlowe]

Don't you understand? I'm only thinking of you? If you're in a jam, will you stop nagging? But all I want to do is.

[Ken Marlowe]

All you want to do is drive me crazy.

[Jackie Howard]

Where's my coat?

[Ken Marlowe]

I'm gonna find a place where a man can have a drink in peace.

[Narrator]

Oh, hi, Steve.

[Mike Waring]

Can I help you?

[Steve Nichols]

Yeah, it's Mr. Marlowe. Never mind, I see him. Hello, Ken. I've been looking for you.

[Ken Marlowe]

What do you want?

[Steve Nichols]

Steve just saw Laura. You're really living your part, aren't you? Boy, what the Two fisted he. Man, that's a beautiful shiner she's sporting.

[Ken Marlowe]

Somebody asked you?

[Steve Nichols]

No, but I hate to see you louse her up. She's one in a million. Look how she stuck by you when you got in that mess out in Beverly Hills.

[Ken Marlowe]

Why don't you mind your own business, Steve?

[Steve Nichols]

I try to.

[Ken Marlowe]

Well, you're not very good at it. I pay you 200 bucks a week to take care of my publicity. Haven't seen my name in print for months.

[Steve Nichols]

Sometimes a publicity man does a job by keeping his client's name out of the papers.

[Ken Marlowe]

What kind of a crack is that?

[Steve Nichols]

Who squared that beef with that girl in Santa Monica and that little chicken, Encino?

[Ken Marlowe]

Look, Steve, if you don't like it, you know what you can do.

[Steve Nichols]

You know, I was just thinking. If national doesn't pick up your option, you're gonna be in trouble.

[Ken Marlowe]

Who says so? I could go to Metro or Fox.

[Steve Nichols]

Well, I got a scoop for you, boy. They wouldn't let you through the main gate. Your only chance is National. Now, you've got to behave yourself until they make up their minds. What kind of a jam did you get yourself into with Jackie Howard?

[Ken Marlowe]

Oh, so Laura's been blabbing.

[Steve Nichols]

She hasn't been doing anything of the kind. I saw Jackie in the lobby. I put two and two together.

[Ken Marlowe]

Well, if you'd stop adding and pay more attention to business, we'd all be better off.

[Mike Waring]

Why?

[Ken Marlowe]

Why don't you get me some publicity?

[Steve Nichols]

Okay. Maybe you could stop a runaway horse.

[Ken Marlowe]

Don't be funny.

[Steve Nichols]

I was just pointing out that putting three quarts of booze away isn't considered front page stuff anymore. You see, editors are funny. They.

[Ken Marlowe]

Wait a minute.

[Mike Waring]

Wait a minute.

[Ken Marlowe]

Wait a minute. I got an idea. Suppose my life was threatened.

[Steve Nichols]

Oh, forget it.

[Ken Marlowe]

Why, it sounds pretty good to me. Now, if we went to the cops.

[Steve Nichols]

In case you haven't heard, Ken, horsing around with the law is a pretty serious matter.

[Narrator]

Okay.

[Ken Marlowe]

Isn't Mike Waring a buddy of yours?

[Mike Waring]

Who?

[Ken Marlowe]

That private dick they call a Falcon.

[Mike Waring]

What about him?

[Ken Marlowe]

They keep play ball.

[Mike Waring]

No, no.

[Steve Nichols]

Mike wouldn't touch anything. That's phony.

[Ken Marlowe]

Why would he have to know? Suppose we cooked up some anonymous phone call.

[Steve Nichols]

It's out.

[Mike Waring]

Why?

[Ken Marlowe]

Because I thought of it.

[Steve Nichols]

Ken, don't be ridiculous.

[Ken Marlowe]

We're gonna handle it my way. We'll hire the Falcon to be my bodyguard. Then you leak it to the papers. Ought to be worth a couple of columns. I don't like it, Ken. I don't like paying your salary while I dream up the ideas. Now go call Waring. Set up a date.

[Mike Waring]

Well, that's the story, Mike.

[Steve Nichols]

After the third phone call, Ken thought we ought to do something about it.

[Mike Waring]

I see.

[Ken Marlowe]

Not that I was worried, you understand. I can take care of myself. But I had to think of Laura.

[Mike Waring]

Lauren, my wife. You.

[Ken Marlowe]

You know how a gal worries.

[Mike Waring]

Tell me some more about these phone calls, Marlow. Do you recognize the voice? No.

[Ken Marlowe]

I thought it was a gag at first.

[Mike Waring]

What convinced you otherwise?

[Ken Marlowe]

Well, this morning someone took a potshot at me while I was playing golf with Steve.

[Mike Waring]

Did you report it to the police?

[Steve Nichols]

He didn't want to, Mike, but I insisted.

[Mike Waring]

What did they say?

[Steve Nichols]

They thought it was a publicity stunt.

[Narrator]

Is this.

[Mike Waring]

No. You sure, Steve?

[Steve Nichols]

Now Look, Mike, you've known me for how many years? 10? 12, I think. I've always leveled with you.

[Mike Waring]

Well, I'm sorry, but you can't blame me for being suspicious. Who did you talk to at headquarters?

[Ken Marlowe]

A Sergeant Corbett. Now there's a phony if I ever met one.

[Mike Waring]

He happens to be a friend of mine.

[Ken Marlowe]

Well, no offense, old man. I only.

[Narrator]

Skip it.

[Mike Waring]

Have any idea who might be after you? No. You indulging in any extracurricular activities? What do you mean? Women.

[Ken Marlowe]

You take me for an idiot? I'm married to the greatest little gal in the world.

[Mike Waring]

You owe anybody any money?

[Ken Marlowe]

No, I'm the kind who pays his bills. And always on the dot.

[Mike Waring]

You sound too good to be true. Huh? The more I hear of this, the more I'm convinced Corbett was right. Come again? The way you tell it, you're the most popular man in the class.

[Ken Marlowe]

Okay, if that's the way you feel, we'll get somebody else. There are other private detectives in New York.

[Mike Waring]

And better, too.

[Ken Marlowe]

Come on, Steve.

[Steve Nichols]

I'm sorry, Mike.

[Mike Waring]

Forget it. It's not your fault. Just say it's a clash of personalities.

[Ken Marlowe]

You coming, Steve?

[Mike Waring]

Yeah. So long, pal.

[Steve Nichols]

I'll be seeing you.

[Mike Waring]

You bet. Give me a call before you leave town. I will.

[Steve Nichols]

Well, I hope you're satisfied.

[Mike Waring]

I am.

[Ken Marlowe]

I think Waring's gonna work out fine, so help me.

[Steve Nichols]

You're nuts. Didn't you hear him?

[Ken Marlowe]

I know what he said. He thinks this is a publicity stunt. With all he caught was a prologue. He'll play ball after the first act.

[Steve Nichols]

What are you talking about?

[Ken Marlowe]

Let's find a phone. I gotta cast the show. And I know just the boy to play the.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah?

[Ken Marlowe]

Is Tex Riley around?

[Mike Waring]

Who wants to know?

[Ken Marlowe]

Tell him it's Ken Marlow.

[Mike Waring]

Why, you no good louse. How can you have the nerve.

[Ken Marlowe]

Keep your shirt on, Tex. Bet you thought I forgot about that hundred bucks you loaned me before I went to Hollywood.

[Mike Waring]

Well, didn't you?

[Ken Marlowe]

Nah. This is my first trip to New York in six years.

[Mike Waring]

You could have mailed it.

[Ken Marlowe]

That's too impersonal. I wanted to give it to you myself. With a little bonus. How would you like to pick up an additional 500?

[Mike Waring]

I don't sound like the Ken Marlow I know and hate. What do I have to do?

[Ken Marlowe]

Well, I got a little part I'd like you to try out for.

[Narrator]

In a picture?

[Ken Marlowe]

It's a play I'm gonna produce on my own. But first I'd like to see a dress rehearsal.

[Mike Waring]

I don't get It.

[Ken Marlowe]

Well, my wife doesn't know anything about this, and I'd like to test her reaction. If you meet me in the Creighton lobby in 20 minutes, we'll run over the script. Laura, you better order some more ice. I'm running low.

[Laura Marlowe]

All right, Ken.

[Mike Waring]

While you're at it, get some ginger.

[Laura Marlowe]

You expecting something?

[Ken Marlowe]

Well, Steve Nichols said he might drop.

[Mike Waring]

Around, answer the door.

[Laura Marlowe]

Just a second.

[Mike Waring]

Well, hiya, sugar.

[Laura Marlowe]

I beg your pardon?

[Mike Waring]

I beg yours. Is the Hollywood hotshot in? Who is it? Laura?

[Laura Marlowe]

What?

[Mike Waring]

Never mind. I'll announce myself. Hiya, Marlo. Who the devil are you? Oh, just an autograph hound.

[Ken Marlowe]

Get out.

[Mike Waring]

Now, where'd I put my pencil? I had it right here. Hey, look at what I found.

[Laura Marlowe]

Ken.

[Narrator]

What's the idea of the gun?

[Mike Waring]

Well, you can't say you weren't warned, Marlow. You owe a friend of mine some dough. He told you to get it up. Since you did it.

[Laura Marlowe]

No, you can't.

[Mike Waring]

Get out of my way, sir.

[Jackie Howard]

No.

[Ken Marlowe]

Will you stop butting in?

[Laura Marlowe]

I'm not afraid.

[Ken Marlowe]

You don't know what you're doing.

[Laura Marlowe]

Yes, I do.

[Mike Waring]

Look, lady, I got nothing against you. Now get out of the way.

[Laura Marlowe]

See what a hero he is, Ken? He's afraid of a woman half his size.

[Mike Waring]

I'm warning you, baby, if you don't get out of the way, I'll let you.

[Ken Marlowe]

Was that you, Haskell?

[Mike Waring]

No, it's me, Sergeant. Well, if it ain't that high flying bird, the falcon. Welcome to our little nest. Who writes your material? Fell out in California. He works real cheap. He should. So, is Ken Marlow around to see you this morning? Yeah, I spotted it for a publicity stunt. That's what I thought at first, too, but I changed my mind. Someone tried to gun him an hour ago. Obviously they didn't make it. How do you know? Well, I already Talked to you, Mr. Marlow. Here's the jacket of the bullet we found in the room. What do you make of it? It's a blank. That's right, Mr. Waring. It's a blank. Marlow was in no danger at all. Well, I guess that makes me the chump of the year.

[Ken Marlowe]

I guess it does.

[Mike Waring]

Well, I had a little help. Okay, sarge. I'll be seeing you. I got to thank the man who thought me so deserv.

[Ken Marlowe]

That's you, Laura.

[Mike Waring]

Sorry to disappoint you, Marlow. Ah. Are you wearing. Sit down. No, thanks. I just dropped by to congratulate you on a magnificent performance. What's eating you? That was a beautiful job of sucking me in. You hired whoever took that shot at you. You're nuts. What I can't figure out is how your wife got in the act. What happened? She had live apart for herself, Fi. I don't think she knew the bullet was a blank. You don't rate a gal like that.

[Jackie Howard]

You've got your nerve.

[Ken Marlowe]

Get out.

[Mike Waring]

Does that mean I'm fired?

[Ken Marlowe]

What do you think?

[Mike Waring]

Good, because I hate to hit a client. Come on, Marlow. We can't end the scene with you on the floor. Your public would never stand for it. Now get up and make like a hero. Hiya, Mike. Oh, hi, Sergeant. I didn't expect to see you again today. Well, you know me, always do the unexpected. We have to see Ken Marlow. Yeah? What happened? Nothing worth talking about. Oh, you're too modest. All right, so I slapped him a couple of times. He had it coming. Maybe the slaps, but not the rest. What are you talking about? He's dead, Mike. He's what? He's out for all time. Were you wearing brass knucks? You're crazy. I wish I were. Better get your coat, fella. We got a long ride ahead.

[Narrator]

What do you and your family do on a weekend if you're average Americans, on a Saturday or Sunday, you enjoy your car. You take a short drive or a long trip. If you use your automobile a lot on weekends, you have a good idea how many millions of cars pour out onto the highways on Saturdays and Sundays. That's one reason why the traffic death toll is so high and why the utmost caution is needed in weekend driving more than any other time. So remember to drive as though your life depends on does. Now, back to the Advent, the Falcon. An hour has passed since Mike Waring was informed Ken Marlow was dead. And now at the scene of the crime, Sergeant Corbett gives our hero some fatherly advice.

[Mike Waring]

Listen, Mike, I got it all figured out. I'm sure you'll be able to cop a plea. What are you babbling about? Well, it was self defense, wasn't it? You didn't mean to kill him. And I didn't. When I left here, he was at the other end of the room with the back of his head caved in. Well, that's just it, Corbett. How did it get that way? I didn't slug him from behind. Well, he must have hit it when he fell. Against what? That sofa wouldn't hurt a fly. How about the fireplace? No, he wasn't anywhere near it. There'd be blood stains if he were. There must be something around that caused the damage. The familiar blunt instrument. Yeah. Let's see those fire tongs. Clean. Well, how about those bookends? Not a stain on him. Listen, Mike, maybe the killer took the weapon with him. Does that mean you're absolving me? If we can come up with some evidence. You think the murderer might have walked off with it? I doubt it. A lot of blood flowed. I can't see anyone taking a chance on staining his clothes. Well, he didn't leave it around for us to find. Hey, wait a minute. There's something missing in this room. What? That's just the trouble. I can't. I got it. Liquor. What are you talking about? Marlow was a drinker. A boy like him would have at least one bottle around. Say, you're right. Where's the trash basket? Probably in the pantry. Well, let's get it. The killer might gamble the next time the chambermaid came through, she'd dump it without a second glance. Hey, quite a collection, huh? There's our baby. Don't touch it. And I won't. But mine are probably the only fingerprints that aren't on it. Everyone else who was up here must have been invited to help themselves. Yeah, you're probably right. Haskell, take this down to the lab. Well, now you're convinced I had nothing to do with this murder. Yeah, but if you didn't kill Marlow, who did? That's what I intend to find out. Why don't you stay out of this, Mike? Oh, no. Whoever tailored this frame did a lovely job. It's just lucky I didn't fit the picture. You can't blame me if I want to get my hands on the art.

[Steve Nichols]

I tell you, Mike, I don't know anything about it. First I heard of it was when the cops phoned me. They found Ken's body.

[Mike Waring]

Whose bright idea was this publicity stunt in the first place, Steve?

[Steve Nichols]

Ken's. I didn't want any part of it.

[Mike Waring]

Then why did you bring him to me?

[Steve Nichols]

I couldn't help myself, Mike. I was working for the man.

[Mike Waring]

That's another thing I don't understand. How come you tied up with a heel like Marlo?

[Steve Nichols]

The dough was good.

[Mike Waring]

When did you last get it, huh? According to what I hear now, he was strictly no pay. When did you get your last salary check? Come on, Steve. It'll be easy enough to find out Three months ago. Then why did you stick? He was on the skid.

[Steve Nichols]

No, he wasn't. National had till Friday to pick up his option.

[Mike Waring]

You think they would have?

[Steve Nichols]

Well, there's no telling. It was an even money bet.

[Mike Waring]

Who had it in for him?

[Steve Nichols]

Noah?

[Mike Waring]

Look, Steve, we're no longer playing games. If he owed you dough, he must have owed others.

[Steve Nichols]

Jackie Howard.

[Mike Waring]

Who's Jackie Howard?

[Steve Nichols]

He owns a gambling joint off the Strip. Ken was into him for around 20 grand.

[Mike Waring]

Is this Howard character in town?

[Steve Nichols]

Yeah, staying at the Brighton.

[Mike Waring]

Okay, we got one suspect. Let's try for two. What about Mrs. Marlowe?

[Steve Nichols]

Don't talk like a chump. She was in love with the guy.

[Mike Waring]

Well, he certainly didn't raid a wife like that.

[Steve Nichols]

Nobody does.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, sounds like you go for her yourself.

[Steve Nichols]

Oh, don't be silly.

[Mike Waring]

You know I'm married. And I suppose you feel like a big brother to her.

[Steve Nichols]

That's exactly how I feel.

[Mike Waring]

You know something, Steve? I believe you.

[Steve Nichols]

Thanks.

[Mike Waring]

No, I mean it. I think Laura explains why you continued working for Marlo. Maybe that's why you knocked yourself out, suppressing those items that would have ruined him. You didn't want her hurt, right?

[Steve Nichols]

Yeah.

[Mike Waring]

Why Steve?

[Steve Nichols]

Won't make any sense. Steve?

[Mike Waring]

Don't try me.

[Steve Nichols]

First day I met her, she reminded me of Edith.

[Mike Waring]

Edith?

[Steve Nichols]

My kid's sister. She was married to a boy like Ken.

[Mike Waring]

What happened to her? She's dead. Oh, sorry.

[Steve Nichols]

Maybe she's better off.

[Mike Waring]

So you transferred your feelings to Laura.

[Steve Nichols]

Anything wrong with that?

[Mike Waring]

No, I think it's very commendable. Still, I wonder how Laura feels about it, huh?

[Jackie Howard]

Yeah.

[Mike Waring]

Why don't I find out?

[Steve Nichols]

Look, Mike, you're not to bother her. She knows nothing about Ken's murder.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah, well, I've only got your word for it, Steve. Not that I don't believe you understand, but I'd like to check these things for myself. I'll be seeing you, fella.

[Laura Marlowe]

Who is it?

[Mike Waring]

I'd like to see Laura Marlow.

[Laura Marlowe]

There's no one here by that name.

[Mike Waring]

I know there is. This is Mike Waring, Mrs. Marlow.

[Laura Marlowe]

Please go away.

[Mike Waring]

I've got to talk to you. Believe me, I wouldn't disturb you, but it's important.

[Laura Marlowe]

Come in.

[Ken Marlowe]

Thanks.

[Laura Marlowe]

How'd you know I was here?

[Mike Waring]

Sergeant Corbett told me. I just saw Steve Nichols.

[Laura Marlowe]

And Steve sent you here?

[Mike Waring]

No. As a matter of fact, he insisted I leave you alone.

[Laura Marlowe]

Why'd you come?

[Mike Waring]

Because I want to solve your husband's murder.

[Laura Marlowe]

Ken meant nothing to you.

[Mike Waring]

He was a client.

[Laura Marlowe]

He tricked you.

[Mike Waring]

I still took his money. Besides, whoever killed him involved me. I don't forget things like this. Now, tell me, what sort of a man was your husband?

[Laura Marlowe]

You must have some idea.

[Mike Waring]

Yes, but I like the woman's viewpoint.

[Laura Marlowe]

It was wonderful.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, come now, Angel. You can't expect me to buy that. I heard.

[Laura Marlowe]

I don't care what you heard. Sure, he took a drink once in a while. Is there anything wrong with that?

[Mike Waring]

What about slapping your arm?

[Laura Marlowe]

He never did.

[Mike Waring]

Well, you can't blame me for jumping to conclusions. It would take a blind man not to notice those bruises on your face and arm. How did you get him?

[Laura Marlowe]

I fell.

[Mike Waring]

Question is, did Ken push you?

[Laura Marlowe]

How dare you.

[Mike Waring]

Look, Mrs. Marlow, I don't mean to be obnoxious, but we've got a murder to solve. Did your husband play around on the outside?

[Laura Marlowe]

No.

[Mike Waring]

What about those stories?

[Laura Marlowe]

Lies, every one of them. They were started by his enemies.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, so he was just a misunderstood kid?

[Laura Marlowe]

No, I understood him and that's all that counted.

[Mike Waring]

All right, Mrs. Marlowe, I think you're telling the truth.

[Laura Marlowe]

I'm overwhelmed.

[Mike Waring]

Well, you should be. Because if Jackie Howard doesn't turn out to be a liar, I won't know what to do. Take care of yourself, angel. And I got to run along.

[Jackie Howard]

Becky Hall, 19, please.

[Mike Waring]

Telegraph Jackie Howard.

[Jackie Howard]

Right here, boy.

[Mike Waring]

Hello, Jackie. My name is Mike Waring.

[Jackie Howard]

What's the idea?

[Mike Waring]

Well, this is the only way I could think of to get acquainted. I'd like to talk to you about Ken Marlo. You a reporter? No, private detective.

[Jackie Howard]

Who you representing?

[Mike Waring]

Myself. I understand Marlow wasn't hucked to you.

[Jackie Howard]

Where you understand that from?

[Mike Waring]

Oh, you mind holding that match? Thanks.

[Jackie Howard]

Who told you Marlow was into me?

[Mike Waring]

Steve Nichols.

[Jackie Howard]

Well, I got a flash for Steve. Marlow took care of those IOUs this morning.

[Mike Waring]

I don't see how. He owed you 19 grand. According to the police, he had only 800 bucks in his checking account.

[Jackie Howard]

He paid me in cash.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, got it out of his mattress, I suppose.

[Jackie Howard]

Well, now that you mention it, I believe he did.

[Mike Waring]

You know, Jackie, you're a welcome change from everybody else in this case.

[Jackie Howard]

Am I?

[Mike Waring]

Yeah. They were telling the truth.

[Jackie Howard]

Suppose I showed you the money.

[Mike Waring]

Well, you probably could. Boy like you always travels well heeled. But can you prove it came from Marlowe?

[Jackie Howard]

Let's look at it another way.

[Mike Waring]

Can you prove it didn't? If I can, it'll make you a choice suspect.

[Jackie Howard]

You know, Waring, there's one thing I don't like about New York. There must be something in the air that makes everybody run off at the mouth.

[Mike Waring]

I suppose it's different on the coast.

[Jackie Howard]

While we have a special treatment for.

[Mike Waring]

Those who do, I'd like to see it.

[Jackie Howard]

I'll have to discuss it first with a fellow Californian. But don't be discouraged. I get back to you.

[Steve Nichols]

Yes?

[Jackie Howard]

Hello, Stan.

[Steve Nichols]

Oh, hi, Jackie. I thought by now you'd be on your way back to the coast.

[Jackie Howard]

You thought wrong. Say, you got yourself a nice little spot.

[Steve Nichols]

Look, Jackie, I don't want to seem rude, but I was just on my way out.

[Jackie Howard]

Oh, relax. I won't stay long. Too bad about Canada.

[Narrator]

Yeah.

[Jackie Howard]

What do you think killed him?

[Mike Waring]

I have no idea.

[Jackie Howard]

Oh, you must have, Steve. You're a bright boy.

[Mike Waring]

No, I'm not.

[Jackie Howard]

Maybe you're right. Now, I had you pegged as the kind who kept his nose clean.

[Steve Nichols]

And don't I?

[Jackie Howard]

Not in my book. Why don't you tell Mike Waring that Marlo owed me money?

[Steve Nichols]

He asked me.

[Jackie Howard]

You're the real helpful type, aren't you?

[Steve Nichols]

I do my best. Yeah.

[Jackie Howard]

Sometimes it doesn't pain. People don't appreciate it.

[Steve Nichols]

Dirty.

[Jackie Howard]

What's the matter, boy? Can't you catch your breath?

[Mike Waring]

Dirty.

[Jackie Howard]

Maybe that's a good thing. You talk too much. Anyway. Little of Doc Howard's treatment may break the habit. Our holes still stink. Damn.

[Mike Waring]

I'm afraid this is gonna hurt.

[Narrator]

Unbelievable as it may sound, accidents on the nation's highways in the last 10 years have killed more than 300,000Americans like you and me. What's more, they have injured no fewer than 11 million men, women and children, crippling several million of these victims for life. To get the significance of those figures, try to visualize a great fleet of automobiles, trucks, buses and other vehicles moving into the city of Jacksonville, Florida, and killing every person there in a decade. Help to protect your own life and the lives of your family by driving safely. Work for greater highway safety for yourself and for your family in your own community and state. And whenever you take the wheel of your own car, drive as though your life depends on it. It does. Now back to the Adventures of the Falcon. Two hours have passed since Steve Nichols received a little of Jackie Howard's specialized treatment. And now in Steve's hotel room, we find him recuperating from the visit.

[Laura Marlowe]

Where's the doctor? You sure you gave him the right room number?

[Mike Waring]

Now, take it easy, Laura. He'll be here. All right, Steve. Try some of this.

[Narrator]

Come on.

[Mike Waring]

It's good for what ails you. Mike, don't talk. Just drink it down. I'm all right.

[Steve Nichols]

How did you find me?

[Mike Waring]

She called me.

[Laura Marlowe]

How do you feel, darling?

[Mike Waring]

Laura.

[Laura Marlowe]

Here, raise your head. I'll fix the pillow.

[Steve Nichols]

You're a da.

[Mike Waring]

Who did it? Steve? Huh? Who gave you the shellacking?

[Jackie Howard]

I don't know.

[Mike Waring]

Come on, Steve, you can't hold out.

[Laura Marlowe]

Look, must you question him now?

[Mike Waring]

Yes, I'm afraid I must. This is all tied up with your husband's murder. Jackie Howard, wasn't it?

[Steve Nichols]

Yes.

[Mike Waring]

Why did he do it? I have no idea. You know anything that would definitely mark him as Marlow's killer? No. You sure, Steve? Anything at all? I can't think of a thing. You've got to. It's our only chance of making this come out the way we want.

[Laura Marlowe]

I don't understand.

[Mike Waring]

Well, Jackie must have felt he had good reason to give Steve that beating.

[Steve Nichols]

What do you mean?

[Mike Waring]

Well, you don't feel Laura killed her husband.

[Steve Nichols]

Now, look, Mike, I told you.

[Mike Waring]

Take it. You don't. So that brings us back to Jackie again. Now, what would be his motive in killing Marlo?

[Steve Nichols]

Well, Ken owed him money.

[Mike Waring]

How could he be sure Marlow wouldn't raise it?

[Laura Marlowe]

Ken couldn't. We were broke.

[Mike Waring]

But you would have been on Easy street if national picked up his option.

[Steve Nichols]

I don't think they would.

[Mike Waring]

Still, where there's life, there's hope. You told me they had till the 23rd. Today is the 18th.

[Steve Nichols]

So?

[Mike Waring]

So Jackie would be sucker not to wait it out.

[Laura Marlowe]

What are you getting at?

[Mike Waring]

Well, if neither you nor Jackie killed your husband, who does that leave?

[Laura Marlowe]

I don't know.

[Mike Waring]

Yes, you do. It's Steve.

[Laura Marlowe]

No.

[Mike Waring]

Yes. That's why Howard gave him that pasting. He felt Steve cost him 19 grand.

[Laura Marlowe]

I don't believe it. You didn't do it, Steve. Tell me. Tell me. I gotta know.

[Steve Nichols]

He's right, Laura.

[Laura Marlowe]

Why? Why? Ken never hurt you.

[Steve Nichols]

No, but he hurt you.

[Laura Marlowe]

He was the only man I ever loved. And you killed him.

[Steve Nichols]

Don't you see, honey? I was only judged.

[Laura Marlowe]

Me. I hate you.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, Laura, look.

[Laura Marlowe]

Get away from me, Mike.

[Steve Nichols]

Explain to me.

[Mike Waring]

I can't. He was no good and she loved him. I'm sorry, Steve. I've got to call the police. What do you say, Mike? Some more coffee? No, thanks, Sergeant. Oh, come on, come on, cheer up. What are you dragging for? You must have some idea. Steve Nichols was my friend and he committed a murder. Well, there's no question about that. Tell me something. Was he in love with Laura? If he was, he was able to kid himself into believing it was strictly platonic. He thought Marlow was hard timing her. Well, he was right. No, he wasn't. You mean there was nothing to those stories about Marlow playing around? Oh, they were true enough, but they didn't mean a thing to Laura. She was in love with him, and that's all that counted. Just goes to prove it's awful dangerous to play God. You never know what's best for other people.