The Falcon: The Case of the Mighty Muscle 02/11/1951

Summary

Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode Summary: "The Falcon: The Case of the Mighty Muscle"
Release Date: February 27, 2025
Host/Author: Choice Classic Radio

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Introduction

In this riveting episode of Choice Classic Radio Detectives, listeners are transported back to the Golden Age of Radio with "The Falcon: The Case of the Mighty Muscle." Hosted by Choice Classic Radio, the episode spotlights the adventures of The Falcon, a suave and astute detective navigating the perilous underworld of Manhattan. This summary delves into the intricate plot, vibrant characters, and the clever twists that make this episode a standout in old-time radio detective storytelling.

The Case Unfolds

The story kicks off early on a deserted Sunday morning in Manhattan, where Al Compton ("a broad shouldered young man") is followed by a mysterious individual, setting the stage for impending conflict and intrigue. The tension escalates when Eddie Fresky confronts Compton, threatening him with dire consequences:

Eddie Fresky ([03:47])
"You're imagining Mr. Compton."

This confrontation hints at underlying tensions and possible motives that drive the narrative forward.

Characters and Motivations

Several key players emerge as the plot thickens:

• The Falcon: The protagonist, a private detective determined to uncover the truth behind the murders.
• Sergeant Corbett: A law enforcement officer interacting with The Falcon.
• Ken Brady: Compton's mentor and boss, potentially entwined in the criminal activities.
• Nick Daniels: A pivotal antagonist involved in blackmail and coercion.
• Judy Wainwright: Initially portrayed as a victim accused of murder.
• Claire Ames: A seemingly innocent character whose true motives unfold later.
• Mike Waring: A sergeant assisting in the investigation.

Investigation and Clues

As The Falcon delves deeper, he uncovers a web of deceit and betrayal. Nick Daniels approaches Ken Brady with a malicious proposal to sabotage Brady's gambling clubs:

Nick Daniels ([07:13])
"They're going to knock off his club regularly."

This scheme is part of a larger plot to ruin Brady's reputation and business, indicating organized crime activities.

Simultaneously, Judy Wainwright is brought in for questioning regarding the murder of Al Compton. Her initial denial and conflicting statements raise suspicions:

Judy Wainwright ([13:22])
"You've got to believe me, Mr. Waring. I didn't kill Al."

The Falcon, employing his keen investigative skills, begins to piece together inconsistencies in Judy's account, suspecting a deeper conspiracy.

Climax and Revelation

The tension peaks when Eddie Fresky is found dead, further complicating the case and pointing towards a cover-up:

Narrator ([23:37])
"I just found Eddie Nichols' body. Say that again. I just found Eddie Nichols' body."

This discovery leads The Falcon to connect the dots, revealing that Judy may have been framed. The true antagonist, Claire Ames, emerges as the mastermind who manipulated both Nick Daniels and Judy to execute her vendetta against Al Compton and Ken Brady.

A pivotal moment occurs during the confrontation between The Falcon and Claire Ames:

The Falcon ([28:10])
"So it was Claire who was the villain of the piece. But why did she kill Al? She had nothing against him."

This line underscores the calculated nature of the crime, emphasizing the lack of direct motive and pointing to strategic manipulation.

Conclusion

In the episode's resolution, The Falcon successfully unmasks Claire Ames, clearing Judy Wainwright's name and dismantling the criminal scheme orchestrated by Nick Daniels and his cohorts. The episode concludes with a promise of further adventures, setting the stage for the next thrilling installment:

Jack Costello ([31:43])
"The Case of the Superfluous Murder. That's the title of next week's Adventure of the Falcon..."

Notable Quotes

• Eddie Fresky ([03:53])
  "You're imagining Mr. Compton."

• Judy Wainwright ([13:22])
  "You've got to believe me, Mr. Waring. I didn't kill Al."

• The Falcon ([28:10])
  "So it was Claire who was the villain of the piece. But why did she kill Al? She had nothing against him."

• Jack Costello ([31:43])
  "The Case of the Superfluous Murder. That's the title of next week's Adventure of the Falcon..."

Insights and Themes

"The Falcon: The Case of the Mighty Muscle" masterfully intertwines themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the quest for truth. The character development showcases The Falcon's unwavering dedication to justice, while the intricate plot highlights the complexities of human motivations and the facades individuals maintain. The episode serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of detective stories and their capacity to engage audiences with suspenseful narratives and compelling character arcs.

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Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio continues to celebrate the rich legacy of old-time radio, bringing classic detective tales to modern audiences with authenticity and flair. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the genre, episodes like "The Falcon: The Case of the Mighty Muscle" offer a captivating glimpse into the art of radio storytelling.

Transcript

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[Podbean]

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[Narrator]

Hello? Yes, this is the Falcon speaking. Louise, I'm glad you called. Now you'll have to count me out tonight, angel. Some boy I know thinks committing murder is a sure way to make a fortune. And unless I can convince him otherwise, he's going to make a stab at it.

[Jack Costello]

This is Jack Costello, 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 best selling 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 mighty muscle. Friends, before we join the Falcon for his latest adventure, I want to tell you about the handiest little menu helpers a homemaker can have in her kitchen. They're the nine famous Kraft Cheese spreads, everyone. So handy for quick, easy snacks and sandwiches, appetizers and salad toppings. They're creamy, mild tasting Kraft Cheese spreads and sharp tasting varieties too. All delicious, all of the finest quality because they're made by Kraft. Tomorrow when you Shop. Get several of the nine famous cheese spreads by Kraft. And now, the case of the mighty muscle. It's early Sunday morning and the streets of Manhattan are deserted, save for a broad shouldered young man named Al Compton, who strolls down East 86th street and heads for home. But unknown to Mr. Compton, he has company. Twenty feet behind him is a tall, lean gent who matches him step for step. And only after Compton has gone two blocks is he aware of his shadow.

[Ken Brady]

All right, friend, what's the idea?

[Eddie Fresky]

Speaking to me?

[Narrator]

Yes.

[Ken Brady]

Why are you tailing me?

[Narrator]

Tailing?

[Eddie Fresky]

Why should I want to do a thing like this?

[Ken Brady]

That's what I want to know.

[Eddie Fresky]

You're imagining Mr. Compton.

[Jack Costello]

Yeah?

[Ken Brady]

And how come you know my name?

[Jack Costello]

Oh, well, you're a celebrity.

[Eddie Fresky]

Everybody knows Ken Brady and the fella he's grooming to follow in his footsteps. Why, it's one of the big success stories of our time.

[Ken Brady]

Who do you think you're kidding?

[Eddie Fresky]

Okay, Compton, I'll put it to you straight. You going right home?

[Business Representative]

Why?

[Eddie Fresky]

A friend of mine wants to talk to you.

[Jack Costello]

Who?

[Eddie Fresky]

Nick Daniels.

[Ken Brady]

What does Daniels want with me?

[Eddie Fresky]

Oh, then you've heard of the boss. Maybe you know that Daniels ain't no two bit up.

[Ken Brady]

I know his territory is Indianapolis. What's he doing in New York?

[Eddie Fresky]

That's what he wants to talk to you about. I got a car around the corner.

[Ken Brady]

I'm sorry, I never take rides with strangers.

[Eddie Fresky]

Look, Compton, as far as I'm concerned, you can keep on walking and heaven bless you. But Daniels said. Eddie, you bring Compton to my place. So you see the position that puts me in.

[Narrator]

That's your tough luck.

[Eddie Fresky]

Oh, no, friend, it's yours.

[Business Representative]

Oh, you must really enjoy your work, Eddie. What'd you hit him with?

[Eddie Fresky]

Hey, Lick.

[Business Representative]

I heard it.

[Eddie Fresky]

Think it could be the cut?

[Business Representative]

No, Brady wouldn't have missed him this fast.

[Eddie Fresky]

You want me?

[Business Representative]

No, no, no, no. I'll take care of it. You look after our friend here. Just a second. I'm coming.

[Claire Ames]

Hello, Nick.

[Business Representative]

What are you doing here, Claire? I thought I left you in Indianapolis.

[Claire Ames]

Well, you're such an irresistible creature, I had to follow you. I want to talk to you.

[Business Representative]

You'll have to pick another time. I'm all jammed up with what?

[Judy Wainwright]

Oh, well.

[Claire Ames]

Well, what goes on under our little roof?

[Business Representative]

That's none of your business. Now will you leave?

[Claire Ames]

Isn't that handsome hunk of man on the bed, Al Compton?

[Business Representative]

Didn't I tell you to beat him?

[Claire Ames]

All right, darling, if you don't want me to stay.

[Business Representative]

Hold it, Claire. I changed My mind?

[Claire Ames]

I thought that was a woman's prerogative.

[Business Representative]

You wouldn't be thinking of going up to see his boss, Ken Brady, would you?

[Claire Ames]

Would you mind very much?

[Business Representative]

You don't want to jump to conclusions, Claire. Mr. Cotton just dropped into chat. He had a couple too many and he passed out.

[Claire Ames]

That hard stuff is awful, isn't it? Especially when you get it from the end of a blackjack.

[Business Representative]

Now listen, Claire. Sure.

[Claire Ames]

What's it worth to you?

[Business Representative]

What's what worth to me?

[Claire Ames]

Keeping my mouth shut.

[Business Representative]

A thousand dollars.

[Claire Ames]

Oh, now, Nick.

[Business Representative]

Now make up your mind, baby. If you don't want it, that's all right with me too.

[Claire Ames]

Now don't be cheap, darling. After all, in your bracket, how much can you keep?

[Business Representative]

I said I'll give you grand, take it or leave it.

[Claire Ames]

I'll take it, though I'd like to try for two.

[Eddie Fresky]

Look, Nick, you're gonna talk all night with that dame. We got work.

[Business Representative]

Just a second, Eddie. Listen, Clara, I want you to take a little walk for a while. Come back in a couple of hours.

[Claire Ames]

4:30 be all right.

[Business Representative]

A 5 will be even better.

[Claire Ames]

And you'll have that money ready.

[Business Representative]

I said I would. Okay, Eddie. Get him up.

[Eddie Fresky]

Come on, Compton, wake up.

[Ken Brady]

Lemme alone.

[Narrator]

Come on.

[Eddie Fresky]

You can go back to sleep after the boss talks to you, huh?

[Business Representative]

Hello, Compton.

[Ken Brady]

Oh, you're Nick Daniels, aren't you?

[Business Representative]

That's right. I'm awfully sorry about this fellow, but I had to talk you no credit on now. I've got a proposition for you, Compton.

[Ken Brady]

I'm not interested.

[Business Representative]

Why don't you hear me out? I've been doing a little checking up on you. They told me you're Brady's fair haired boy. Treats you like his own son.

[Jack Costello]

So?

[Business Representative]

So I'm going to show you how to commercialize on it. Now, I'd like to open up a couple of gambling clubs around town.

[Ken Brady]

You're crazy. You think Brady would stand for it while he's in the business?

[Business Representative]

That's just it. He's not going to be in business much longer.

[Ken Brady]

What do you mean?

[Business Representative]

We're going to knock off his club regularly.

[Narrator]

What?

[Business Representative]

Yes, and when his customers see the rough stuff that goes on, I don't think they'll be flocking there anymore.

[Ken Brady]

You're out of your mind, Daniels.

[Business Representative]

You don't think it'll work?

[Ken Brady]

No. We got spotters all over the place. It's armed like a fortress. How are you gonna get your boys past the guards?

[Business Representative]

That's where you come in.

[Ken Brady]

You think I'd Sell out Brady after all he's done?

[Business Representative]

I think you'd sell out your own mother if the price will rise.

[Ken Brady]

Look, you can take your money.

[Business Representative]

Who's talking about money? There are other things in life besides that.

[Ken Brady]

You're not making sense.

[Business Representative]

Ever hear of a man named Sam Richards?

[Mike Waring]

No.

[Business Representative]

Funny. I found a guy in Mobile who's willing to identify you as the lad who killed Richards in a fight over some girl.

[Ken Brady]

That's a lie.

[Business Representative]

Seems this friend of mine was living across the street and saw the whole thing from his window.

[Narrator]

You're bluffing.

[Business Representative]

You think so? 1. Take a look at these pictures.

[Ken Brady]

Where did you get them?

[Business Representative]

Oh, I forgot to mention. This friend of mine is a camera enthusiast and he thought a picture of you bending over the body might come in.

[Ken Brady]

Well, you're not frightening me, Daniels. Brady knows all about that mess.

[Business Representative]

Yeah, but the cops don't. What do you say, Compton? Do you cooperate?

[Ken Brady]

When would I get the pictures?

[Business Representative]

Don't give them a thought. I'll deliver right after you do.

[Narrator]

Sorry, Judy.

[Ken Brady]

So you see the spot I'm in. Either way, I'm a dead duck.

[Judy Wainwright]

What does this Nick Daniels have on you?

[Ken Brady]

Oh, that's unimportant.

[Judy Wainwright]

It can't be. If you told him, you'd cooperate.

[Ken Brady]

Listen, Judy, I swear all this happened long before I ever met you.

[Judy Wainwright]

Then why can't you tell me what it is?

[Ken Brady]

I just can't, that's all. Just take my word for it that Daniels wasn't sounding off. If I double cross him, it can mean my life.

[Judy Wainwright]

Well, what are you gonna do?

[Ken Brady]

What can I do? When I came to New York, I was a bum. Brady took a liking to me. He gave me a job.

[Judy Wainwright]

You mean you're gonna tell him about Nick Daniels?

[Business Representative]

Yes.

[Judy Wainwright]

No, you can't do that, Al.

[Ken Brady]

You got a better idea?

[Jack Costello]

Yes.

[Judy Wainwright]

Why don't we leave town?

[Ken Brady]

How far do you think we'd get? Daniels probably has a boy now watching the hotel.

[Judy Wainwright]

Then why don't you do what Daniels wants? Brady had never suspected you.

[Ken Brady]

Will you forget it?

[Judy Wainwright]

If you really loved me? I do. Then don't say anything to Brady.

[Ken Brady]

Just get out of my way.

[Narrator]

Judy.

[Judy Wainwright]

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

[Ken Brady]

You can't stop me.

[Judy Wainwright]

I can try.

[Claire Ames]

Al.

[Business Representative]

Al.

[Narrator]

Go away. Nobody here.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah, let me talk to Mike Waring, please.

[Narrator]

In here.

[Mike Waring]

What's the matter, kid? Did I wake you?

[Narrator]

Oh, that's a pretty ridiculous question, Corbett. What do you want?

[Mike Waring]

That's no way to talk to a guy who's gonna do you a favor.

[Narrator]

Look, Sergeant, I don't like guys doing me favors at 3:00 in the morning.

[Mike Waring]

Okay, Mike, if you don't want to.

[Narrator]

Meet her, what are you babbling about?

[Mike Waring]

I just picked up a little number who's out of her mind to meet the Falcon. You interested?

[Narrator]

Nope.

[Mike Waring]

She's blonde, 5ft 2.

[Narrator]

I said I wasn't.

[Mike Waring]

It would put Venus to shame.

[Narrator]

Oh, what's her name?

[Mike Waring]

Judy Wainwright.

[Narrator]

Never heard of her.

[Mike Waring]

You will. She just killed Al Compton.

[Narrator]

Ken Brady's boy.

[Mike Waring]

That's right. She wants to hire you.

[Narrator]

Is that why you called me?

[Mike Waring]

Yeah.

[Narrator]

Well, tell Ms. Wainwright I'm not interested.

[Mike Waring]

Ah, you're being smart, Mike.

[Narrator]

What do you mean?

[Mike Waring]

Well, strictly between you and me and the guy who's hiding under your racing form, this little girl hasn't got a prayer.

[Narrator]

Not a chance, huh?

[Mike Waring]

No. She's up the well known creek without a paddle. I bet the jury won't take 20 minutes to strap her into the chair. Want to hear the story she tried to give us?

[Narrator]

No. Never mind, Sergeant. You always foul up a story. Tell Ms. Wainwright I'll be over to hear it myself.

[Jack Costello]

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[Judy Wainwright]

You've got to believe me, Mr. Waring. I didn't kill Al.

[Narrator]

And how come you didn't see the murderer?

[Judy Wainwright]

Because my back was to the door.

[Narrator]

And you didn't hear it open?

[Judy Wainwright]

No.

[Narrator]

How do you explain the gun being found in the room?

[Judy Wainwright]

The killer must have thrown it in.

[Narrator]

How did your fingerprints get on it?

[Judy Wainwright]

Oh, I don't remember. I was so dazed I probably picked it up without thinking.

[Narrator]

You weren't so dazed that you couldn't pack a bag and head for the nearest bus line where the cops grabbed you?

[Judy Wainwright]

I tell you, I didn't know what I was doing.

[Narrator]

You had a fight with Compton, didn't you?

[Judy Wainwright]

No, I was crazy about it.

[Narrator]

How come the people next door heard you arguing? Corbett tells me they heard Compton say he was walking out on you and you wouldn't let him go.

[Judy Wainwright]

That's a lie.

[Narrator]

Did you or didn't you say you were going to stop him?

[Judy Wainwright]

What is this, a third degree? Just what side are you on, Mr. Waring?

[Narrator]

I haven't decided yet.

[Judy Wainwright]

Well, if that's the way you feel, I'll get someone else. Falcon's not the only private detective in town.

[Narrator]

Okay, Angel. No hard feelings. Hey, sergeant.

[Judy Wainwright]

No, wait. Mr. Waring.

[Narrator]

Yeah.

[Judy Wainwright]

I'll tell you anything you want to know.

[Narrator]

Okay.

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[Narrator]

Suppose we start with the last question I asked.

[Judy Wainwright]

Well, Al and I were arguing, but it wasn't over. What, you think Al worked for Ken Brady?

[Narrator]

You're not telling me anything new.

[Judy Wainwright]

Well, late last night, a man came to Al with a proposition. Either Al helped him ruin Brady's club or else.

[Narrator]

Or else what?

[Judy Wainwright]

I don't know. It was blackmail of some sort.

[Narrator]

What was Compton's decision?

[Judy Wainwright]

He was going to tell Brady the whole story, even though it meant his life. That's why I wouldn't let him go.

[Narrator]

And would you know the name of the party who tried to blackjack him into line?

[Judy Wainwright]

Yes, it was Nick Daniels.

[Narrator]

The gentleman from Indianapolis?

[Judy Wainwright]

I think so. Do you know him?

[Narrator]

No, but I've always wanted to. And this may be my chance. Hey, Sergeant. I want out.

[Claire Ames]

Want me to get that, Nick.

[Business Representative]

Don't trouble yourself, Claire.

[Claire Ames]

No trouble at all.

[Business Representative]

Hello?

[Claire Ames]

Yes, just a minute. It's your Indianapolis call, Nick. The operator says she's ready with Wilson.

[Business Representative]

Just tell him I won't need those strong arm men I asked him for.

[Claire Ames]

Anything else?

[Business Representative]

No, just say I'll be back in a couple of days.

[Claire Ames]

All right.

[Business Representative]

Go right on, Claire. I'll take care of him.

[Claire Ames]

Hello, Wilson? Nick asked me to relay some dope. Yeah, about those men. Look.

[Narrator]

Hello, Nick.

[Business Representative]

Do I know you?

[Narrator]

Not like you're going to. My name is Mike Waring.

[Business Representative]

Oh, the falcon. What do you want with me?

[Narrator]

Well, I'm working for a girl named Judy Wainwright.

[Business Representative]

I don't believe I know her.

[Narrator]

She was engaged to Al Compton.

[Business Representative]

Oh, too bad it was broken.

[Narrator]

Then you know he was murdered, huh?

[Business Representative]

Sure, I heard it on the radio. Sad, wasn't it?

[Jack Costello]

That's very.

[Narrator]

Doesn't it strike you strange that he should be knocked off right after you worked on him to double cross Brady?

[Business Representative]

Who told you that?

[Narrator]

Little birdie.

[Business Representative]

What's this little birdie's name?

[Narrator]

What difference does that make?

[Business Representative]

He's got a long tongue. Maybe somebody ought to pull it out. Eddie Fresky, right?

[Narrator]

Get your hands off me.

[Jack Costello]

Shut up, Nick.

[Claire Ames]

What are you doing?

[Narrator]

Get your hands off me.

[Eddie Fresky]

I heard you the first time.

[Narrator]

Are you.

[Business Representative]

Come on, break it up. I said break it up. Quit playing around, Eddie. Use the sack.

[Jack Costello]

No, you don't.

[Eddie Fresky]

I can't.

[Narrator]

He's got my arm.

[Business Representative]

Well, in that case, I guess I'll have to take a hand. You all right, Eddie?

[Eddie Fresky]

My arm feels like he tore it out of its socket.

[Claire Ames]

Make him stop, Nick.

[Narrator]

I'll fix him.

[Business Representative]

Cut it out, Eddie. Wearing? Wearing.

[Claire Ames]

He's out cold.

[Business Representative]

Give me that vase.

[Claire Ames]

You're not gonna hit him with it.

[Business Representative]

Will you shut up? Lift his head up, Eddie.

[Narrator]

Right.

[Business Representative]

That's fine.

[Narrator]

Don't.

[Business Representative]

It's only water. Wearing it can't hurt. You want a drink?

[Narrator]

No.

[Business Representative]

Suit yourself. Who told you about my deal with Al Compton?

[Narrator]

That's none of your.

[Claire Ames]

Oh, for heaven's sake, Nick, stop it.

[Business Representative]

I told you to keep out of this, Claire.

[Narrator]

Well, Mr. Waring, you don't think I'd tell you?

[Business Representative]

Sure I do.

[Narrator]

Well, you're going to be disappointed.

[Business Representative]

Okay, Eddie, take off his shoes.

[Narrator]

Hey, what's the idea?

[Business Representative]

I'm going to show you how we make it hot for guys like you back in Indianapolis.

[Claire Ames]

Nick, you wouldn't.

[Business Representative]

No. We'll watch and see. Got a match, Eddie?

[Jack Costello]

Sure.

[Claire Ames]

No, Nick.

[Eddie Fresky]

Well, he still ain't talking. Nick.

[Business Representative]

What'd you come out for? Go back in there with Claire and work on him till he does.

[Eddie Fresky]

That's no use. He's out cold. From the looks of it, he will be for another three or four hours.

[Business Representative]

Oh, that's fine. Now, how am I gonna find out who told him I got to Compton?

[Eddie Fresky]

Maybe he just guessed it.

[Business Representative]

No, no, no. You don't guess things like that, Eddie. Somebody's been talking out of turn.

[Eddie Fresky]

Maybe it was Claire.

[Business Representative]

Maybe. Then again, maybe it was you.

[Eddie Fresky]

Well, what kind of a crack is that?

[Business Representative]

Claire stood to make a grand if things had broken right. So take it any way you like.

[Eddie Fresky]

All right, Nick. As long as you mentioned it. Where do I stand in this deal?

[Business Representative]

I told you that before.

[Eddie Fresky]

Before things were different. I was supposed to get 5% of everything you made in New York.

[Business Representative]

So?

[Eddie Fresky]

So right now the best you can hope for is to keep your health. If Brady ever hears of this stunt, you won't live long enough to regret it. Where does that leave me?

[Business Representative]

The same place it leaves me.

[Eddie Fresky]

Not quite. You got dough? I haven't.

[Business Representative]

That's tough.

[Eddie Fresky]

But only on you.

[Business Representative]

What's the idea of the gun, eddie?

[Eddie Fresky]

I want 10 grand for my trouble.

[Business Representative]

What?

[Eddie Fresky]

You heard me.

[Business Representative]

I haven't got it here.

[Eddie Fresky]

Don't hand me that.

[Business Representative]

I'll let you look at my wallet. I'm fresh out. Cost me plenty to start operating.

[Eddie Fresky]

You got plenty more in your safe?

[Business Representative]

Sure, but that's down in the office.

[Eddie Fresky]

All right, let's go to the office.

[Business Representative]

Okay. Any when a fella's got something coming to him, I'd be the last one to stop him from getting it. Let me get my coat.

[Claire Ames]

Oh, take it easy. Hence. And you're going to be all right.

[Narrator]

Who are you?

[Claire Ames]

You're not being very flattering, Mr. Waring. I was kind of hoping you noticed me when you first came in.

[Narrator]

Oh, I did.

[Claire Ames]

You had me worried for a minute. I thought I was slipping.

[Narrator]

What time is it?

[Claire Ames]

Quarter of nine.

[Narrator]

You mean I've been alone here for almost three hours?

[Claire Ames]

Not alone, honey. I've been keeping you company.

[Narrator]

Lucky me. What's your name, angel?

[Claire Ames]

Claire.

[Narrator]

Now, what's the rest of it?

[Claire Ames]

Ames. Ms. Claire Ames.

[Narrator]

Since when has it been Miss?

[Claire Ames]

Hmm?

[Narrator]

Wasn't so long ago you were wearing a wedding ring there.

[Claire Ames]

Who tells you that?

[Narrator]

Oh, I'm clairvoyant. Besides, you still got a band of white on your left hand. Oh, yeah. See how simple it is? Who was the lucky man?

[Claire Ames]

What difference does it make?

[Narrator]

Because I've got a feeling it was Nick Daniels?

[Claire Ames]

How did you know that?

[Narrator]

Oh, just a hunch. You still married to the guy?

[Claire Ames]

Yes. But don't give up hope, Hanson. I don't think it'll last. I've been thinking of Reno for quite a while.

[Narrator]

How would Nick like that?

[Claire Ames]

He wouldn't.

[Narrator]

How'd you get into this mess anyway?

[Claire Ames]

Nick promised me a thousand dollars if I'd help him. And I needed the money.

[Narrator]

Did he and Eddie kill Al Compton?

[Claire Ames]

Use your head. What was their percentage? Compton was their boy.

[Narrator]

Where are they now?

[Claire Ames]

They left about two hours ago for Nick's office.

[Narrator]

What do they do with my shoes?

[Claire Ames]

Don't be a fool, Waring. You can't hobble around in your condition. You just lie still. I'll get a doctor.

[Narrator]

Oh, don't you bother. I'll live through it. Too bad I can't say as much for your husband. Where's Nick's office? Claire?

[Claire Ames]

Last one down the hall. Look, Mike, what's your interest in this case?

[Narrator]

Well, isn't it obvious? Looking for Al Compton's murderer.

[Claire Ames]

Why?

[Narrator]

Because I've got a client named Judy Wainwright the police think did it.

[Claire Ames]

I see.

[Narrator]

Do you?

[Claire Ames]

Yes. So that's where the leak was, huh? That's how you knew that Nick approached Compton. And the police think that your client is guilty?

[Narrator]

Yep.

[Claire Ames]

What makes you so sure she isn't?

[Narrator]

Oh, I don't know. Call a blind faith.

[Claire Ames]

I wish I could find someone to believe in me that way.

[Narrator]

Maybe we could work out a deal. Is this the place?

[Claire Ames]

Yes.

[Narrator]

Who's the Star Trading Company?

[Claire Ames]

That's the name Nick is using in New York.

[Narrator]

Well, I guess there's nobody.

[Claire Ames]

What's the matter?

[Narrator]

I spoke too soon. The door's open. Where's the light switch?

[Claire Ames]

I've got it.

[Narrator]

Awfully careless of Mr. Nick Daniels to leave his office in this condition. Doesn't it strike you as being sloppy?

[Claire Ames]

No.

[Narrator]

Obviously, we both can't be looking at the same thing. And the first thing I noticed was that open closet. And the next thing I saw.

[Claire Ames]

Eddie.

[Narrator]

Yes, that's who it is. Claire.

[Claire Ames]

What? What's wrong with him?

[Narrator]

Just to mention one thing. He's dead. Hand me the phone, angel. I gotta call the.

[Mike Waring]

86 Precinct. Sergeant Corbett speaking.

[Narrator]

Hello, Corbett. This is Mike Waring.

[Mike Waring]

Well, where you've been keeping yourself, friend. Your client's been asking for you.

[Narrator]

Now, you tell Ms. Wainwright she's got nothing to worry about. I'll be down in five minutes with the proof that she didn't kill Compton.

[Mike Waring]

What do you call proof?

[Narrator]

I just found Eddie Nichols body Say that again. I just found Eddie Nichols body. Nick Daniel's boy. Someone let him have a butcher knife right in the back.

[Mike Waring]

Where'd you find him?

[Narrator]

In Nick's office.

[Mike Waring]

How do you figure that clears Ms. Wainwright?

[Narrator]

I'll explain it all when I see you, Sergeant. But it stands to reason the same party who killed Al Compton killed Eddie.

[Mike Waring]

I still don't see how that gives the girl an out.

[Narrator]

Oh, come off. And what's wrong with you, Corbett? Eddie's been dead for less than an hour and for the last five you've had my client under lock and key.

[Mike Waring]

Guess again. Ms. Wainwright raised 10 grand worth of bail at 7:00 tonight. That was three hours ago.

[Narrator]

You're joking.

[Mike Waring]

If you think so. Well, you hear the payoff. The guy who put up the dough is a gentleman named Nick Daniels. Ain't that enough to kill you?

[Jack Costello]

This is Jack Costello again, friends, and I'd like to say a few words about those nine delicious Kraft Cheese spreads. That's right. I said nine. There's a variety to please every taste. There are the creamy, mild tasting ones, like Kraft Pineapple Cheese Spread, Kraft Olive Pimento and Kraft Relish. And there are sharp tasting kinds too, such as Kraft Limburger Smokel and Kraft Cheese and Bacon Spread. All of them are delicious and good for you too, because they're wholesome dairy foods made from only the finest, purest ingredients. For easy sandwiches and snacks, keep your refrigerator stocked with several of the nine famous Kraft Cheese spreads. And now back to the Adventures of the Falcon. A half hour has passed since Mike Waring received the news that Judy Wainwright's bail was furnished by Nick Daniels. And now with her gorgeous Mrs. Daniels in tow, the Balkan tries to locate the good deeder.

[Narrator]

Listen, Claire, you're sure Daniels wouldn't go anyplace but this apartment?

[Claire Ames]

Well, it's either here or his office.

[Narrator]

But the doorman said he hasn't been back since he left.

[Claire Ames]

Yes, obviously he knew whereof he spoke. Well, I guess the only thing to do is to sit and wait.

[Narrator]

That seems like a smart idea.

[Claire Ames]

Want a drink?

[Narrator]

Don't mind if I do.

[Claire Ames]

Say when.

[Narrator]

When.

[Claire Ames]

Here's to what we both want.

[Narrator]

Wait a minute. Does Nick have a hotel suite anywhere?

[Claire Ames]

Not that I know of.

[Narrator]

Where could he have taken Judy?

[Claire Ames]

Why are you so worried about her?

[Narrator]

You don't know how important that little lady is in my scheme of things.

[Claire Ames]

You think she killed Compton and Eddie?

[Judy Wainwright]

Well, do you, Mr. Waring?

[Narrator]

Judy. Where's Nick?

[Business Representative]

Right behind her.

[Narrator]

Huh.

[Business Representative]

So try anything funny and you know what will happen?

[Narrator]

Why don't you let him bail you out, Judy?

[Judy Wainwright]

I thought you sent him.

[Business Representative]

You'll forgive me for using your name, friend.

[Narrator]

How did you find out about her?

[Business Representative]

I'm a gambler, Waring. I play hunches. This one paid off right on the nose.

[Narrator]

Speaking of hunches, Nick, I've got a honey of my own.

[Business Representative]

Yeah?

[Narrator]

Yeah. I've got a feeling that one of the things you're not expecting is this. Get down, Jody. That's not nice, Nick. Drop that, son.

[Ken Brady]

Come on, drop it.

[Narrator]

Cut it out.

[Business Representative]

You're breaking my arm and I'm gonna.

[Narrator]

Start on your neck.

[Judy Wainwright]

Mike.

[Narrator]

What is.

[Claire Ames]

Mike, stop it.

[Narrator]

Let go of me, Claire.

[Claire Ames]

You'll kill him.

[Narrator]

That's the general idea. Come on, Nick, get up.

[Claire Ames]

Let him be, Mike. He didn't kill Al Compton.

[Narrator]

No?

[Claire Ames]

No. How would he know Compton was going to double cross him and tell Brady? I tell you, Nick had no motive.

[Narrator]

Who said he did?

[Claire Ames]

What?

[Narrator]

I never claimed he had a motive, Claire. I just don't like this guy. On general principles, I don't get you. No. I'll see if this is any better. You killed Al Compton.

[Judy Wainwright]

You're crazy.

[Narrator]

And what's more, you killed Eddie Nichols when he stumbled on the truth.

[Claire Ames]

You let go of me.

[Narrator]

Don't struggle, angel. Because now that I've finished with Mr. Daniels, I'd just as soon start on this missus.

[Judy Wainwright]

So it was Claire who was the villain of the piece. But why did she kill Al? She had nothing against him.

[Narrator]

Well, that's what made this almost a perfect crime, Judy. She had no motive, but her husband did.

[Judy Wainwright]

You mean it was a frame?

[Narrator]

That's right, Angela. You see, if Claire played ball with her husband, all she stood to gain was $1,000. But if Nick went to the chair for the murder of Al and Eddie, then as his widow, she stood to.

[Judy Wainwright]

Come into a fortune.

[Narrator]

Now you got it. While I was out cold, she followed Eddie and her husband to the office where she let Eddie have it.

[Judy Wainwright]

And you mean to tell me Nick just stood by and did nothing?

[Narrator]

What was your reaction when you saw Al lie? I recall you were a little on the bewildered side.

[Judy Wainwright]

Yes, that's true.

[Narrator]

Well, the same thing happened to Nick.

[Judy Wainwright]

But didn't Claire say she was with you while Eddie and Nick were gone?

[Narrator]

What could you expect her to do? Break down and confess? After that going over, I got I was in no condition to tell whether or not she was lying.

[Judy Wainwright]

Well, I still find it hard to believe she was in that hotel room while I was arguing with Alice, Why.

[Narrator]

You were both so worked up you didn't notice the door open.

[Judy Wainwright]

Oh, now admit it. You're guessing.

[Narrator]

No, no, she had to be in that room, Judy. You see, she knew something she never could have known otherwise. That Al was planning to double cross Nick by telling his boss the whole story. Now, Nick didn't know that the only reason he was giving up the scheme of breaking Brady was that with Al dead, it didn't stand a chance of working. Now is it clear?

[Judy Wainwright]

I see.

[Narrator]

Good.

[Judy Wainwright]

I only wish there was some way I could pay you for all you've done.

[Narrator]

Oh, there is.

[Judy Wainwright]

How?

[Narrator]

Well, I don't think this is the proper time to go into that.

[Judy Wainwright]

Why not?

[Narrator]

Well, a private detective likes to keep his fees strictly between him and his client. And I've got a feeling we're being overheard. Wait till we're alone, huh?

[Jack Costello]

This is Boy Scout Week, the 41st anniversary of the beginning of the Boy Scout movement in America. All over the country, special scout activities are in progress, including Scout open houses to which the public is invited. The Kraft Foods Company salutes the Boy Scouts and urges all America to support this character building work among our youth. Why not get in touch with your local scout organization this week? Drop in and get acquainted with the Scouts, their leaders and their program. The Case of the Superfluous Murder. The Case of the Superfluous Murder. That's the title of next week's Adventure of the Falcon, when Mike Waring learns that if a woman wants something badly enough, not even murder will stand in the way. 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. Schubert, written today by Gene Wang and directed by Richard Lewis. Music was by Arlo Les Demon was starred as the Falcon with Ken lynch as Sergeant Corbett. Be sure to hear the Great Gildersleeve next Wednesday evening over most of these stations. In next Wednesday's broadcast, Gildy comes face to face with 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 newspaper for time of broadcast. This is Jack Costello speaking for the Kraft Foods Company.

[Narrator]

Groucho Marx joins Tallulah Bankhead's big show today. Be sure to hear it on NBC.