The Falcon: The Case of the King of Hearts 05/11/1952

Summary

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Podcast Summary: The Falcon: The Case of the King of Hearts (Aired 05/11/1952)

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Overview

In this classic radio detective drama, private investigator Mike Waring, known as "The Falcon," is drawn into the world of high-stakes romance and deadly intrigue. The case centers around Johnny King—a charismatic newcomer—and Grace Burton, a wealthy married woman pursued by both King and the suspicions of her gambler husband, Vic. When King is murdered, the hunt for his killer exposes betrayal, blackmail, and an unexpected culprit, all set in the glitzy backdrop of a New York hotel.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

1. Johnny King Arrives & Targets Grace Burton

• [00:17] The story opens with King arriving at the Carlton Hotel. He quickly befriends bellhop Billy Matthews, offering him money for information about the rich hotel residents.
• King specifically asks about attractive women, focusing on Grace Burton.
  • Quote:

    "You look like a bright boy, Billy. I bet you don't miss much that goes on around here."
    —Johnny King, [01:49]

• Billy, motivated by cash, digs up personal details on Grace for King.

2. King's Deception & Grace’s Vulnerability

• [03:34] Johnny orchestrates a “chance” meeting with Grace by posing as an old school acquaintance.
• Their flirtation quickly escalates; King manipulates Grace emotionally, claiming he’s married to a woman in an asylum. Grace, infatuated, offers him money.
  • Quote:

    "Grace, I'm crazy about you. I never met anyone before who hit me the way you did."
    —Johnny King, [06:45]

  • Quote:

    "No, I won't let you go. I'll give you the money."
    —Grace Burton, [07:15]

3. Vic Burton’s Suspicion and Mike Waring’s Involvement

• [08:05] Vic confronts Grace about $18,000 in missing funds—all checks made out to cash—raising the stakes.
• [09:09] Vic hires Mike Waring, suspecting Grace is being exploited or having an affair.
  • Quote:

    "I got the feeling Grace got herself involved in something she can't handle."
    —Vic Burton, [09:17]

4. The Murder of Johnny King

• [13:43] Sergeant Corbett informs Waring:
  • Quote:

    "Did said job entail getting the lowdown on the late Johnny King?"
    —Sergeant Corbett, [13:57]

• King is shot dead; suspicion immediately falls on Vic.
• Billy Matthews claims to have seen a suspicious figure in a raincoat and umbrella right before the murder, though it wasn’t raining.

5. The Investigation Unfolds

• Waring, unconvinced by Vic’s guilt, interviews key players including Grace and Billy.
• Billy's involvement becomes more pronounced as he’s discovered to be extorting Grace for hush money, threatening to implicate her in King’s murder.
  • Quote:

    "If I do, I'll go straight to Mike Waring. Suppose I told him you and Mr. King had a beef?"
    —Billy Matthews, [20:29]

6. Attempt on Waring's Life

• [22:19] As Waring works the phones, a shot is fired at him in his hotel room—he survives, confirming Vic's innocence (Vic couldn't have shot him from jail).

7. The Reveal: Billy Matthews, the Murderer

• Waring deduces Billy killed King to steal the $18,000 and used his bellhop status for easy access and cover.
  • Quote:

    "No one would notice a bellboy around the hotel. So he went up to Johnny's room and let him have it."
    —Mike Waring, [26:32]

• The raincoat-wearing figure was a diversion Billy himself invented.

8. Final Reflections

• The episode concludes with a classic exchange, highlighting the show’s sharp, sardonic humor:
  • Quote:

    "I could almost overlook his killing Johnny. But there's one thing I can't forgive him for."
    —Sergeant Corbett, [26:49]
    "What's that?" —Mike Waring
    "Taking that shot at you." —Sergeant Corbett
    "Oh, why, Sergeant, I never dreamed you cared." —Mike Waring
    "I don’t. Just sorry. Missed. Good night, Mike." —Sergeant Corbett
    [26:54]

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Notable Quotes & Moments (with Timestamps)

• "Some cod I know. Thinks he can trump another man's queen. And with the joker wild, the game can be murdered."
  —Mike Waring (The Falcon), [00:19]
  (A pun setting up the theme of deception and betrayal.)

• "What kind of a heel do you take me for?"
  —Johnny King, [07:19]

• "You working for Vic Burton?"
  —Johnny King confronting Waring about the investigation, [10:43]

• "You're barking up the wrong tree, Corbett. If she was in love with him, she certainly wouldn't have had him killed. Unless..."
  —Mike Waring, [15:43]

• "You ought to keep your drawers locked. Oh, you little sneak. I wouldn't try that again, miss… Five grand."
  —Billy Matthews extorting Grace, [20:20]

• "I got a feeling … most of the time it's real dull. How well did you know Mr. King?"
  —Mike Waring to Billy, [18:15]

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Important Segment Timestamps

| Timestamp | Segment Overview | |-----------|----------------------------------------------------------| | 00:17 | Johnny King arrives, meets Billy Matthews | | 03:34 | King begins wooing Grace, posing as a school friend | | 07:00 | King cons money out of Grace | | 09:09 | Vic suspects Grace, hires the Falcon | | 13:43 | King’s murder discovered | | 20:29 | Billy blackmails Grace | | 22:19 | Attempted murder of Waring | | 26:18 | The Falcon exposes Billy as the killer | | 26:49 | Epilogue, banter between Waring and Corbett |

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Summary & Tone

The episode is a tight, wry whodunit filled with quick banter and cynical wisecracks typical of classic radio noir. The story highlights themes of deception, greed, and opportunism. Each character—from the disillusioned Grace to the ambitious bellhop—reflects a facet of desperation hidden under New York’s glamorous veneer.

Mike Waring’s cool, sardonic delivery keeps the pace lively, and the twist ending—where the overlooked bellboy is unmasked as the criminal mastermind—delivers a satisfying, ironic punch befitting both the Falcon and the era’s love for unexpected justice.

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For detective lovers and nostalgia buffs alike, "The Case of the King of Hearts" is a prime example of Golden Age radio’s suspense, character-driven plotting, and sharp wit.

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].

[Sergeant Corbett]

Hello?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Yes, this is the Falcon speaking. Oh, Moon, I'm glad you called. Now I'll have to take a rain check, Angel. I've got a date for bridge. Mm. Some cod I know. Thinks he can trump another man's queen. And with the joker wild, the game can be murdered.

[Narrator]

Once again, 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 King of Hearts. It's late afternoon in New York and a handsome gent named Johnny King steps out of the elevator at the Carlton.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Swipe, please.

[Narrator]

In the lead is an enterprising bellhop named Billy Matthews, carrying two light pieces of luggage. It seems like nothing to Billy, but in just a minute he's going to have his hands full.

[Billy Matthews]

This is it, Mr. King. If you'll wait till I turn on the lights.

[Johnny King]

Hey, it's all right.

[Billy Matthews]

Would you like me to open the window?

[Johnny King]

Not a bad idea.

[Grace Burton]

Okay.

[Johnny King]

Hey, it's quite a sight. They look like ants down there, don't they?

[Billy Matthews]

Yes, sir.

[Johnny King]

Maybe that's what they are. Look at them run. Most of them don't even know where they're going.

[Billy Matthews]

I suppose not. Will there be anything else, Mr. King?

[Johnny King]

No. Oh, wait a second. What's your name?

[Billy Matthews]

Billy Matthews.

[Johnny King]

You look like a bright boy, Billy. I bet you don't miss much that goes on around here.

[Billy Matthews]

Oh, I keep my eyes open.

[Johnny King]

How'd you like to make yourself 20 bucks?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

What would I have to do?

[Johnny King]

Well, New York's a new town to me. I need someone to show me the ropes.

[Billy Matthews]

What are you interested in?

[Johnny King]

Women.

[Billy Matthews]

Women?

[Johnny King]

Mm. Well, it figures. There must be a lot of rich dames living in a place like this. You must know them all.

[Billy Matthews]

I'll get you, Mr. King.

[Johnny King]

For instance, who was the gal that got off the elevator as I came in?

[Billy Matthews]

Good looking, blonde, about five. Three?

[Johnny King]

That's the one.

[Billy Matthews]

Her name is Grace Burton.

[Johnny King]

Ms. And Mrs. Mrs. Judging by that mink she was wearing, I'd say Papa was loaded.

[Billy Matthews]

He is.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

What's he do?

[Billy Matthews]

I don't know.

[Johnny King]

One double or 20?

[Billy Matthews]

He's a gambler.

[Johnny King]

Suppose Mr. Burton's away from home a good deal, huh? Where does he bank?

[Billy Matthews]

Well, after all, Mr. King, you couldn't.

[Johnny King]

Expect me to know worth another 40.

[Billy Matthews]

Federal trust on Park Avenue.

[Johnny King]

I knew I picked the right boy. All right, kid, you got yourself 80 bucks. You want to go for 160?

[Billy Matthews]

What can I lose?

[Johnny King]

I warn you, this is going to be tough. I want to know Mrs. Burton's maiden name, where she went to school, who her friends are, what they do.

[Billy Matthews]

In short, you want a complete case history.

[Johnny King]

You think you can handle it?

[Billy Matthews]

Well, you see, 160 is a tough number to remember. If you could make it an even two, I could practically guarantee results.

[Johnny King]

You're quite a chiseler.

[Billy Matthews]

Well, I don't intend to be a bellhop all my life.

[Johnny King]

I can see that. Okay, Billy, you got yourself a deal. Now, let's see you.

[Grace Burton]

Delivery.

[Johnny King]

Yeah?

[Billy Matthews]

Mr. King, this is Billy Matthews.

[Johnny King]

Hi, Billy. What's the score?

[Billy Matthews]

Well, leading three to nothing. Mrs. Burton's maiden name was Grace Sherman.

[Johnny King]

Grace Sherman?

[Billy Matthews]

Yeah, she went to Clinton High School in Chicago.

[Johnny King]

What about college?

[Billy Matthews]

Two years at Northwestern. Her best friend was an Alice Gordon.

[Johnny King]

You must have been reading her mail.

[Billy Matthews]

More than I had to. It's pretty dull.

[Johnny King]

What does she do to keep occupied?

[Billy Matthews]

Nothing much. Matinees, shop and the usual gook. But at 4 o' clock every day, you'll find her in a cocktail lounge downstairs.

[Johnny King]

Alone?

[Billy Matthews]

Yeah, she drinks Smirnoff.

[Johnny King]

That's good to know. Well, wish me luck, kiddo. I'm off to the races.

[Grace Burton]

Waiting.

[Billy Matthews]

Waiting.

[Vic Burton]

I'll be right with you, Mrs. Burton.

[Johnny King]

Grace Sherman.

[Grace Burton]

What?

[Johnny King]

Well, if you're not a sight for sore eyes.

[Grace Burton]

I beg your pardon?

[Johnny King]

Well, aren't you Grace Sherman?

[Grace Burton]

Well, that was my maiden name.

[Johnny King]

So you went and did it. Now, look, mister, am I being snubbed or don't you recognize it?

[Grace Burton]

I'm afraid I don't.

[Johnny King]

I'm Johnny King.

[Grace Burton]

Johnny King?

[Johnny King]

We went to Clinton High together.

[Grace Burton]

It's funny that I don't remember.

[Johnny King]

Well, you did go to Clinton.

[Grace Burton]

Yes.

[Johnny King]

And as I recall, you and Alice Gordon went to Northwestern for a couple of years afterwards.

[Grace Burton]

Yes, that's right. I suppose I should be ashamed of myself.

[Johnny King]

Well, I'm an easy man to forget.

[Grace Burton]

No, I wouldn't imagine so.

[Johnny King]

Take my word for it. I've lived with me for 38 years. But if you'd rather.

[Grace Burton]

No, no, please stay, mister.

[Johnny King]

You see, you've forgotten again. King. Johnny King.

[Grace Burton]

Won't you join me?

[Johnny King]

Only if you let me buy you a drink. Waiter, Two Smirnoff vodkas.

[Grace Burton]

You have a fantastic memory.

[Johnny King]

Well, I've forgotten very little about you, Grace. Tell me what you been doing with yourself these last few years.

[Grace Burton]

Well, for one thing, I got married.

[Johnny King]

Anyone I know?

[Grace Burton]

No, I don't think so. He's from New York. His name is Vic Britain.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

What's he doing?

[Grace Burton]

Oh, a little of this and that. He's out of town at the moment.

[Johnny King]

And he lets a gorgeous creature like you run around loose. Serve him right if he lost you.

[Grace Burton]

I don't think there's much danger in that.

[Johnny King]

You never know.

[Vic Burton]

Your drinks, monsieur.

[Johnny King]

Thanks. Let's have two more of the same.

[Grace Burton]

Oh, really, Johnny.

[Johnny King]

Look, we gotta make up for lost time. Go on. Way down. Oui, monsieur. To us. Grace, I got a feeling that this time you won't ever forget me. You want to go through the park again, Grace?

[Grace Burton]

Let's go on forever.

[Johnny King]

Keep going, Kelly.

[Grace Burton]

You know, Johnny, this is the first time I've ever ridden in a hansom cab. It never occurred to Vic.

[Johnny King]

You hear from him lately?

[Grace Burton]

Yes. He wired he's got reservations on the Super Chief for Friday.

[Johnny King]

Now, that gives us five days. I guess we ought to be grateful for small favors.

[Grace Burton]

Why couldn't I go on seeing you?

[Johnny King]

For one thing, I've run out of money.

[Grace Burton]

You what?

[Johnny King]

Well, I only intended to stay in town for a week, but meeting you messed up my plan.

[Grace Burton]

How long would you stay if you had the money?

[Johnny King]

That's a pretty ridiculous question.

[Grace Burton]

How long would you stay?

[Johnny King]

As long as you wanted me to.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

If you weren't married?

[Grace Burton]

Yes.

[Johnny King]

Oh, what difference does it make?

[Grace Burton]

I want to know, Joanie.

[Johnny King]

Grace, I'm crazy about you. I never met anyone before who hit me the way you did.

[Grace Burton]

I'm glad because that's how I feel too. Grace, when Vic comes home, I'm going to tell him.

[Johnny King]

No, you mustn't.

[Grace Burton]

Why not?

[Johnny King]

Because it wouldn't be any use. You see, I'm married, too.

[Grace Burton]

You're married?

[Johnny King]

Don't look at me like that. I can't get a divorce. She's in an insane asylum.

[Grace Burton]

Oh, no.

[Johnny King]

Happened four years ago when she lost the baby.

[Grace Burton]

Oh, you poor darling.

[Johnny King]

That's the way it works out sometimes. So I guess it's back to Chicago for yours truly.

[Narrator]

No.

[Grace Burton]

No, I won't let you go. I'll give you the money.

[Johnny King]

What kind of a heel do you take me for?

[Grace Burton]

I consider it a loan.

[Billy Matthews]

No.

[Grace Burton]

Please, Johnny. Please, if you love me.

[Johnny King]

That's the one argument I can't answer.

[Sergeant Corbett]

All right, Grace.

[Johnny King]

I'll do what you.

[Vic Burton]

That you, Grace?

[Grace Burton]

Yes, Vic.

[Vic Burton]

Where you been?

[Narrator]

Shopping.

[Grace Burton]

Oh, I've got to get off my feet. You wouldn't believe how jammed the stores are.

[Vic Burton]

I Should have imagined they'd have locked the doors and just waited on you. Would have paid them. In case you haven't kept tabs, you wrote $18,000 worth of checks last month.

[Grace Burton]

I what?

[Vic Burton]

Well, isn't this your signature? All made out to cash?

[Grace Burton]

What's wrong with it?

[Johnny King]

Nothing.

[Vic Burton]

But I'd like to know where the money went.

[Grace Burton]

Oh, various things. For example, how can you expect me to remember?

[Vic Burton]

Well, if I spent 18 grand, I would.

[Grace Burton]

Don't you trust me?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Of course.

[Grace Burton]

Then why the third degree?

[Vic Burton]

Well, after all, baby, $18,000.

[Grace Burton]

There you go hopping on that again. Well, if you must know, I. I lost it gambling.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

You lost it gambling?

[Grace Burton]

Yes. Why should you have all the fun?

[Vic Burton]

It isn't fun with me, sweetie. It's business. Who'd you drop the money to?

[Grace Burton]

I won't tell you.

[Vic Burton]

But you don't even have the faintest notion how to place a bet.

[Grace Burton]

Are you calling me a liar?

[Vic Burton]

I didn't mean it that way, but I got a right to know.

[Grace Burton]

Look, if you think I'm going to sit here while you make like Mr. District.

[Billy Matthews]

Grace. Where you going?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Grace?

[Vic Burton]

That's the story, Mike. When I asked Grace about the dough, she claimed she lost it gambling. Well, I want to know where that money went.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Look, Vic, if you expect me to play I spy on your wife.

[Vic Burton]

I know how you feel about this kind of a case, but I wouldn't ask you to touch it if I, I. I've got the feeling Grace got herself involved in something she can't handle.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

You feel there's another man in the picture?

[Vic Burton]

I lay eight to five. You think you can find out his name, what he does for a living?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Judging by those checks, I'd say he's promoting Grace.

[Vic Burton]

If he is, it's my fault.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Let's not be noble.

[Vic Burton]

I mean it.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

What kind of a life is it.

[Vic Burton]

For a girl to be married to a gambler? With me traipsing all over the country? No wonder she got lonely.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, assuming I find this man, what do you intend to do about it?

[Vic Burton]

It all depends. He's the right guy.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

How could he be and take money from your wife?

[Vic Burton]

Maybe he's in a jam. Happens now and then.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

You're a strange bird, Vic.

[Vic Burton]

I'm no kid, Mike. I've been around. Maybe I was wrong getting married in my racket, but I did. And anything Grace wants, she can have.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

She wants this guy, she can have him, too.

[Vic Burton]

With six points. I get to work on it like a good boy. Just let me know the score.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Taxi. Hey, taxi.

[Johnny King]

Take me to. Oh, wait a minute. Hey, you.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Me?

[Johnny King]

Yeah. Why don't we share the cab and save some dough?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

How's that again?

[Johnny King]

Well, aren't you tailing me?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, if I was, Johnny, I wasn't doing too good a job.

[Johnny King]

And I thought the Falcon was the best in the business.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I thought so too. Obviously we were both wrong.

[Johnny King]

Obviously. You working for Vic Burton.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Would it do me any good to deny it?

[Johnny King]

Not a bit. But you can tell your client his troubles are all over. I'm giving Grace back to him.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, that's nice of you.

[Johnny King]

Well, that's the sort of guy I am. Yeah, from here on in, he's got nothing to worry about. Of course it cost him a few pennies, but think of the lesson he learned.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

You know, Johnny, I've got a hunch you've got yours to learn yet. Take care of yourself, fellow. Wish I had time to.

[Billy Matthews]

Hello, Mr. King.

[Johnny King]

Hey, what are you doing here, Billy?

[Billy Matthews]

I hear you checking out.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Oh, where'd you hear that from?

[Billy Matthews]

Desk clerk.

[Johnny King]

Mistaken.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Oh, I'm sure glad to hear that.

[Billy Matthews]

Johnny.

[Johnny King]

Johnny. Hey, are you this friendly with all the guests?

[Billy Matthews]

Are you this friendly with all the bellhops?

[Johnny King]

Billy, you're wasting your time here. Boy like you could really go places. I like it here.

[Billy Matthews]

I was wondering.

[Johnny King]

Hey. Hey, beat it.

[Billy Matthews]

You expecting company?

[Johnny King]

Go on. I said beat it.

[Billy Matthews]

Just as you say, Mr. King.

[Grace Burton]

John.

[Billy Matthews]

Hello, Mrs. Burton.

[Grace Burton]

Oh, hello, Billy.

[Billy Matthews]

You sure I can't do anything else for you, Mr. King?

[Johnny King]

No, you've done enough already.

[Billy Matthews]

Well, you know me, always glad to be of service. If you need anything, yell.

[Grace Burton]

Darling, I'm sorry I broke in on you.

[Johnny King]

It wasn't smart, Grace.

[Grace Burton]

I couldn't help myself. You've got to take me away.

[Johnny King]

Why, what's up?

[Grace Burton]

Vic's gone to Mike Waring.

[Johnny King]

So I discovered, you know. Yeah, I ran into him this morning. Well, you can't say that my timing is bad. I had a feeling the party was over.

[Grace Burton]

You're joking.

[Johnny King]

Look, Grace, it's time you open those beautiful blue eyes to the facts of life. I'm not a very nice guy, but Johnny. No, it's true. You see, honey, I got only one talent, if you can call it that. I'm a pretty fair looking boy. Now don't get me wrong. I'm not conceited about it. It's my stock in trade. Now it's time to move the shop to another spot.

[Grace Burton]

No, no, I won't let you go.

[Johnny King]

Let's not be so.

[Grace Burton]

I mean it, Johnny. I won't Let you? I'll kill you first.

[Johnny King]

You wouldn't do that, would you? You were just talking to hear yourself talk. Isn't that right?

[Grace Burton]

Oh, Johnny. Johnny, don't leave me.

[Johnny King]

I'm sorry, baby. But it was nice while it lasted.

[Billy Matthews]

Your order, please.

[Johnny King]

This is Mr. King in 912. Billy Matthews around there?

[Billy Matthews]

I'll have to check the bell caps and. Will you hold on?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Yeah.

[Johnny King]

Hurry it up, will you? Love her when you're near me Mr. King?

[Billy Matthews]

Yeah? I'm afraid he's busy. Will one of the other bellhops do?

[Johnny King]

No, no, I want him. Look, as soon as you locate him, tell him.

[Grace Burton]

Oh.

[Billy Matthews]

Go, Mr. K.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Hello, Mike.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, if it isn't Sergeant Corbin.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Don't tell me. I wasn't expecting.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, you were overdue. Haven't seen you in a week.

[Narrator]

Sit down.

[Sergeant Corbett]

What's the point? Only be getting up again.

[Johnny King]

You know of Vic Burton?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Yeah, I just finished a little job for him.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Did said job entail getting the lowdown on the late Johnny King?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

What do you mean, the late Johnny King?

[Sergeant Corbett]

What do people generally mean when they say the late?

[Johnny King]

He's dead.

[Sergeant Corbett]

He was gunned an hour ago.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

And you think.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I think the job you did for Vic Burton supplied the motive. You're a real helpful kid, Mike. Isn't it a crime all your good deeds turn out to be murder?

[Narrator]

Two hours have passed since Mike Waring's client was nominated by the police as chief suspect for the murder of Johnny King. Now at headquarters we find Vic Burton declining the honor with little thanks.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

What are you trying to do, frame me? Well, it won't work. I never even heard of this Johnny King. It won't wash. Vic Corbett knows. I tailed him for you.

[Vic Burton]

Thanks. Maybe I can do something for you someday.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Don't be a chump, Burton. He had to tell us.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, the whole thing's ridiculous. I never used a gun in my life. I wouldn't know how.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I believe they include directions in every pack. All you gotta do is follow him.

[Billy Matthews]

You're crazy.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You know King was romancing your wife.

[Narrator]

That's a lie.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

They were just friends.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, his friendship came pretty high. I understand it cost you 18 grand.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I tell you, I didn't kill him.

[Sergeant Corbett]

No, you hired a pro to do the job.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

How do you know that, Corbett?

[Sergeant Corbett]

A bellboy at the hotel named Billy Matthews spotted him about 10 minutes before the shooting. He saw some character wearing a raincoat and carrying an umbrella get off at King's floor. He thought it was queer.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

What's so queer about that?

[Sergeant Corbett]

It wasn't raining.

[Billy Matthews]

Oh.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

On the basis of that, you're ready to book Burton?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Why? You got a better suspect?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Sure, I can think of a dozen. Did you talk to his wife?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, you feel she could have been responsible?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

You're out of your mind.

[Vic Burton]

Where's her motive?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, suppose she was in love with this King character?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

You're barking up the wrong tree, Corbett. If she was in love with him, she certainly wouldn't have had him killed. Unless. Well, I just thought of something. Wait a minute, Mike.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Keep away from Grace.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

You're asking the impossible, Vic.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Those are orders.

[Vic Burton]

If you can't follow them, you're fired.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, I always wanted to go into business for myself. I'll be seeing you, fellas. Hello, Mrs. Burton.

[Grace Burton]

Who are you?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Mike Waring. Oh, I take it Vic mentioned my name. May I come in?

[Grace Burton]

Yes, please.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Thank you.

[Grace Burton]

Sit down, won't you? Did you see Vic?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Yes, not more than 10 minutes ago. He's in a bad spot, Angel.

[Grace Burton]

He didn't kill Johnny.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

There was only one way to convince the police.

[Grace Burton]

How?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Give him a better suspect. You get any nominations?

[Grace Burton]

No.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

You wouldn't care to volunteer for the post yourself?

[Grace Burton]

What?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, you were in love with Johnny.

[Grace Burton]

I don't deny that.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Suppose he packed you in?

[Grace Burton]

Why should he?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

He did it to other women.

[Grace Burton]

You're lying.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Oh, you mean you didn't know?

[Grace Burton]

What was there to know? That's not true.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

You going to stick to that story?

[Grace Burton]

Why shouldn't I?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Because if I can disprove it, it's going to look awful sad for you.

[Grace Burton]

Get out of here.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Look, Grace, I'm not enjoying this any more than you are, but unless I can dig up another suspect, Vic is going to fry.

[Sergeant Corbett]

No.

[Billy Matthews]

Yes.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Now, do you think he killed Johnny?

[Grace Burton]

No, Mal.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Then who does that leave?

[Grace Burton]

I thought you were the detective.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Thanks for reminding me. I'll get busy on it. Right. Excuse me. You Billy Matthews?

[Billy Matthews]

Yeah, that's right.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Glad to know you. I'm Mike Waring.

[Narrator]

Who?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Mike Waring.

[Billy Matthews]

You're not the one they call the Falcon.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Yeah, but don't breathe it to a soul.

[Billy Matthews]

Gee, this is a real pleasure, Mr. Waring. You working on a Johnny King murder?

[Johnny King]

Mm.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Where can we talk?

[Billy Matthews]

Well, I'm on duty now.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, can't you knock off for five minutes? It's worth a fin if. Well, go on, take it.

[Billy Matthews]

I don't want you to think I was holding you up.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Never entered my mind. Where can we go?

[Billy Matthews]

There's a place behind the elevator. Hey, Norris, take over my station, will you? I have to help this Gentleman. Here. How does this suit you?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

This is fine. Smoke?

[Billy Matthews]

Thanks. I can't tell you what a bang I'm getting out of this. I always wanted to be a private dick myself.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Forget it. I got a feeling. What with tips and gyps, you do better here.

[Billy Matthews]

Yeah, but it must be exciting.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

No, most of the time it's real dull. How well did you know Mr. King?

[Billy Matthews]

Well enough. He was a big sport.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Heavy tipper, huh?

[Billy Matthews]

You betcha.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

How did he meet Grace Burton?

[Billy Matthews]

I couldn't say.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I get 20 bucks. It says you're too modest. Well, 20 bucks, Billy, that's not to be sneezed at, even by a bellhop.

[Billy Matthews]

It was all my fault.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Come again?

[Billy Matthews]

When he first registered here, he saw Mrs. Burton. He told me he thought he knew her from someplace. I guess I let him pump me.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

It's hard to believe, huh? You're a shruti, Billy. I can't see Johnny getting anything out of you that you didn't want to give. How much did he pay you?

[Billy Matthews]

Oh, now, you gotta understand, Mr. Waring, we bellboys don't do as well as you think. I gotta supply my own uniforms.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Yeah, and you got a widowed mother in Flatbush to support. I know. Johnny see much of Grace Burton?

[Billy Matthews]

Practically every day. He really went for her.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

She was nuts about him. They have a fight?

[Billy Matthews]

Not that I know of.

[Johnny King]

You sure?

[Billy Matthews]

Positive. About an hour before he was bumped, I saw him together and they were real lovey dovey.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, that kind of knocks my hunch in the head, huh? Skip it. Listen, Billy, here's my card. Now, if you think of anything else, lift the phone, huh?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yeah, sure.

[Billy Matthews]

Well, it was very interesting seeing you operate.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I told you it was real dull.

[Billy Matthews]

I don't know, Mr. Waring. You gave me a couple of ideas. Maybe someday they'll come in Handy. Yes? Hello, Mrs. Burton.

[Grace Burton]

I didn't call for a bellboy.

[Billy Matthews]

I know. I just dropped by to let you know all the fellas think it's a shame about your husband.

[Grace Burton]

Oh, well, thank them for me, Billy.

[Billy Matthews]

I sure will. Aw, the cops are nuts. Mr. Burton wouldn't hurt a fly. Why, he never even said two words to Mr. King.

[Grace Burton]

Did you tell that to the police?

[Billy Matthews]

What'd he take me for, a blob of mouth? If I wanted to talk, I could tell plenty. Me and Johnny got home. Johnny? Yeah, didn't you know? We were real close. How do you think he found out about you?

[Grace Burton]

How?

[Billy Matthews]

I got him the dope. You ought to keep your drawers locked.

[Grace Burton]

Oh, you little sneak.

[Billy Matthews]

I wouldn't try that again, miss.

[Grace Burton]

Now get out of here.

[Billy Matthews]

If I do, I'll go straight to Mike Waring. Suppose I told him you and Mr. King had a beef?

[Grace Burton]

What?

[Billy Matthews]

I heard you threatened to kill him when he sloughed you off.

[Grace Burton]

You're lying.

[Billy Matthews]

You know better. I was parked right outside his door. Of course, I could always have amnesia. But that'll cost you real dough.

[Grace Burton]

What do you call real dough, Billy?

[Billy Matthews]

Five grand.

[Grace Burton]

Don't be a fool. I haven't got that kind of money.

[Billy Matthews]

Are you kidding? You and your husband have a joint checking account at the Federal Trust.

[Grace Burton]

You don't miss a trick, do you?

[Billy Matthews]

No, not a one. So start writing. And since you might have trouble spelling my name, just make it payable to cash.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

3.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Homicide. Corbett.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Hi, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Who's this?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Now, who else would it be?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Oh, I was afraid of that. Did you see Mrs. Burton?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Yep.

[Sergeant Corbett]

What'd you find out?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Nothing.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I told you you were wasting your time.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, I'm more convinced than ever that Vic didn't kill Johnny King.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I'd like to see a little proof.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, there must be something in King's past that supplies the motive.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You're reaching, pal.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, it figures that in his lifetime he must have offended many a husband.

[Sergeant Corbett]

And you think one of them finally caught up with him while he was messing with Grace Burton?

[Johnny King]

I do.

[Sergeant Corbett]

How convenient.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, does it hurt to check?

[Sergeant Corbett]

You tell me how. He had no record.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

What did you find in his room?

[Sergeant Corbett]

You want a complete inventory?

[Billy Matthews]

Yes.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Eight custom tailored suits, four pairs of shoes, 19 shirts, six of the monogram.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

No, no, no, never mind that. Did he keep a diary?

[Sergeant Corbett]

There wasn't a scrap of paper in the joint.

[Johnny King]

Well, I don't.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Get a hold of. Sergeant, I've got company. Yes, come in.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Listen, Mike, if you're all through.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, I'm not. I'll be with you in just.

[Billy Matthews]

Oh, hello, Mike.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Hey, what's going on there?

[Narrator]

Hello?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Hello.

[Narrator]

Fifteen minutes ago, Mike's phone call to Sergeant Corbett was interrupted by a shot. Whereupon the good sergeant hustled over and discovered the reason for the disconnect.

[Sergeant Corbett]

All right, Mike. Here, take a swig of this.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

No.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You must be hurt real bad to turn this down. It's bonded. Oh, Corbett, why don't you ask me what happened?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I don't have to. I was here. Who taped my ribs?

[Johnny King]

Me.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

You made it too tight.

[Sergeant Corbett]

That's gratitude for you. Did you get a look at the party?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

No, I didn't have a chance.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Wonder what he had against you. Not that I can't think Of a dozen reasons, so can I.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Must be getting close to the truth.

[Sergeant Corbett]

What? You told me you weren't getting close to anything.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, this proves Vic Burton couldn't have killed King.

[Narrator]

Does it?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well it figures. The same one who killed Johnny shot me.

[Sergeant Corbett]

So?

[Billy Matthews]

So.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Vixen stir, isn't he?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Aren't you forgetting the queer duck and the raincoat the bellboy saw?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

You think Vic sent him around to knock me off? Why should he?

[Sergeant Corbett]

To unsuspicient himself?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

You're out of your mind.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well then who do you think was responsible?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I have no idea. But if you help me into my coat, we'll see Grace Burton. Maybe she'll provide a little inspiration.

[Billy Matthews]

Hello, Mrs. Button.

[Grace Burton]

Are you back again?

[Billy Matthews]

Billy, that's nowhere to talk. I'm up here to do you a favor.

[Grace Burton]

Don't bother.

[Billy Matthews]

Well, if that's the way you feel.

[Grace Burton]

No, wait a minute. What is it?

[Billy Matthews]

If I was you, I'd be real careful when I use a phone. They got a bug on it. A bug? It's tapped. I think your friend Mike Waring is responsible. What'd you tell him anyway?

[Grace Burton]

None of your business.

[Billy Matthews]

Look, I can't protect you if I don't know.

[Johnny King]

Moritra.

[Billy Matthews]

You expecting someone?

[Grace Burton]

No.

[Billy Matthews]

Well, thanks again, Mrs. Burton. If you want the papers, please let me know.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Hello, Billy.

[Billy Matthews]

Oh, Mr. Waring. I was just on my way out.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Stick around. We're going to have a ball.

[Billy Matthews]

I got to get back to work.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

It'll keep.

[Grace Burton]

What's the meaning of this?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

You know Sergeant Corbett?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Sure she does.

[Grace Burton]

I still would like to know.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Corbett and I thought you might be interested in the latest developments. An hour ago someone took a shot at me.

[Grace Burton]

Oh, obviously they missed.

[Sergeant Corbett]

No, I make a real neat bandage.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well anyway, it came from the same gun that killed Johnny King.

[Grace Burton]

Well then that proves that Vic didn't do it.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

That's what I claim. But Corbett here is still holding out for the queer little duck in the raincoat.

[Billy Matthews]

The one I saw?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Yeah. Tell me some more about him, Belain.

[Billy Matthews]

Nothing more to tell. He's about five, three or four. Kind of chubby.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Why didn't you question him when you saw him loitering in the hall?

[Billy Matthews]

Well, I thought maybe he was a guest in a hotel.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

And of course you wouldn't risk offending.

[Billy Matthews]

Look, I gotta get back to work now.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

What's your hurry? You always said you wanted to see how a detective operates. Well, latch on kid. I'm operating. Now what do we know for sure? Party named Johnny King was murdered. So the first question is, who done.

[Sergeant Corbett]

It I say Vic Burton.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I say you're wrong. What was his motive?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Revenge.

[Grace Burton]

That's not true.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

I'm inclined to agree with you, Grace. Want to make it unanimous? Belem I wasn't paying attention. Well, you should. We're going to ask questions later. I submit the motive was money.

[Sergeant Corbett]

What are you talking about?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

You gave me a list of the stuff you found in Johnny's room. What happened to the 18 grand grace turned over to him?

[Sergeant Corbett]

You must have banked it.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Then why didn't you find the passbook? No. A guy like Johnny would keep that money on him for a fast getaway. Right, Billy?

[Billy Matthews]

How should I know?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, you should. If anyone would. You killed him.

[Billy Matthews]

Well, you're nuts. I swear in a Bible anymore, I'll.

[Johnny King]

Save it for court.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

All right, Corbett. What are you standing there with your mouth open for? Close it and make like a co. What's the matter, Sergeant? You don't look happy.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Oh, I ain't. When I think how that Billy Matthews had me fooled.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, he was a real cutie. Imagine holding me up for 25 bucks and him with 18 grand stashed away.

[Sergeant Corbett]

23. You're forgetting the five he got shaken down, Mrs. Burton.

[Billy Matthews]

Oh, yeah?

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Well, Billy believed in making the most of his opportunities. As soon as he discovered King was checking out, he figured it was time to act. He knew no one would notice a bellboy around the hotel. So he went up to Johnny's room and let him have it.

[Sergeant Corbett]

And a queer looking duck in the.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Rain color that was a figment of his imagination.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You know, I could almost overlook his killing Johnny. But there's one thing I can't forgive him for.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

What's that?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Taking that shot at you.

[Mike Waring (The Falcon)]

Oh, why, Sergeant, I never dreamed you cared.

[Billy Matthews]

I don't.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Just sorry. Missed. Good night, Mike.

[Narrator]

The Case of the Falling Star. The Case of the Falling Star. That's the title of next week's Adventure of the Falcon, when Mike Waring learns that some heavenly bodies can wind up six feet under. The Adventures of the Falcon are based on the famous character created by Drexel Drake. Produced and transcribed by Bernard L. Shubert written today by Eugene Wang and directed by Richard Lewis. Les Damon was starred as the Falcon with Chuck Webster as Sergeant Corbett. This program came from New York. Fred Collins speaking.