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Mike Waring
Ugh.
Ed Herlihy
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Kenneth Lindsay
Hello? Yes, this is the Falcon speaking. Oh, Linda, I'm glad you called. Now you'll have to cancel me out tonight, angel. I've got to take a toy away from the baby. Mm. Someone just bought this baby a gun. And unless I stop her, she figures to get quite a bang out of it.
Joe Dowling
This is Ed Herlihy, friends, inviting you on behalf of the Kraft Foods company to listen to the adventures of the Falcons, starring Les Damon. You met the Falcon first in his bestselling novels. Then you saw him in his thrilling motion picture series. Now join him on the air when the Falcon solves the case of the missing mist. In just a moment, you'll hear the latest adventure of the Falcon. But first, here is important news for you from the makers of Craft Quest Quality Foods. Today on this program, we're making the first nationwide radio announcement of a wonderful new product brought to you by Kraft. Yes, a brand new member of the Kraft family of Pine Foods. At this point, we're not even going to tell you what the new product is. We're saving that for our next announcement. But be sure to keep tuned to this program. Listen for the big news from Kraft in just a few minutes. And now, the case of the missing miss. It is late Saturday afternoon, and a short, heavyset boy in a dirty trench coat makes his way to the 12th floor suite of Senator Arthur Blake. When he comes to the door, he feels at his left shoulder where the outline of a holster can be seen. Then, obviously reassured he hasn't forgotten the tools of his trade, he knocks on the senator's door.
Marion Crane
Just a second. Yes?
Jean Colbert
Is Senator Blake in?
Marion Crane
Well, I'm afraid he's busy at the moment. Can I help you? I'm Marion Crane's secretary.
Jean Colbert
How nice. Where is he?
Kenneth Lindsay
In there.
Marion Crane
Just a moment, Mr.
Jean Colbert
Darling.
Marion Crane
I don't remember making an appointment for you.
Jean Colbert
Don't let it worry you, Ms. Crane. I make my own.
Joe Dowling
Marion, would you be good enough to. I'm sorry, my dear. I didn't realize we had a visitor.
Jean Colbert
Hello, Senator.
Joe Dowling
How do you do, sir?
Jean Colbert
I hate to break in on you like this, but it can't be helped. My name is Darling Dowling.
Joe Dowling
Are you?
Jean Colbert
No, I am not one of your constituents. I'm with the FBI.
Marion Crane
The FBI?
Jean Colbert
That's right, honey.
Joe Dowling
Well, what can I do for you, Mr. Dowling?
Jean Colbert
You can get your things and come along with me.
Joe Dowling
I'm afraid I don't understand, sir.
Kenneth Lindsay
You don't?
Jean Colbert
Senator, did you ever hear of an outfit called Premium Oil?
Joe Dowling
Premium Oil? No, I don't believe I have.
Jean Colbert
How about a party named Jean Colbert?
Joe Dowling
No.
Jean Colbert
That's very strange, Senator. Because our investigation shows you helped Colbert sell over $8 million worth of petroleum products to the Navy during the war.
Joe Dowling
Well, my good man, is selling oil to the Navy a violation of the law?
Jean Colbert
It is when Colbert and his phony company never delivered even a jar of Vaseline for all that dough.
Joe Dowling
Well, there must be some mistake.
Jean Colbert
Could be. Suppose you take that up with my chief.
Joe Dowling
I'll be glad to, Mr. Dowling. If you'll excuse me for a moment.
Jean Colbert
Wait a minute, Senator. Where you going?
Joe Dowling
Just to get my briefcase. I left it in the bedroom. I assure you, I have no intention of escaping.
Jean Colbert
Okay.
Marion Crane
Mr. Dowling?
Jean Colbert
Yeah?
Marion Crane
Are you from the Washington Bureau or the local office?
Jean Colbert
What difference is? Did you hear something then?
Marion Crane
Yes, it came from the bedroom.
Jean Colbert
Is there a fire escape in there?
Marion Crane
No. Senator.
Joe Dowling
Get away from that window. Bly here where you are. Mr. Dowling, if you take one more step.
Jean Colbert
Now, listen, Blake. Quit bluffing and climb down off that window ledge.
Joe Dowling
Oh, you think I'm bluffing?
Jean Colbert
All right.
Joe Dowling
Hello, Lindsay.
Edward Harrell
You know you're not supposed to come to my apartment unless I have something for you.
Mike Waring
Well, I got something for you, Lindsey. Senator Blake just committed suicide.
Edward Harrell
What are you talking about?
Joe Dowling
Haven't you seen the afternoon papers?
Edward Harrell
No.
Mike Waring
Well, take a look, Senator.
Edward Harrell
Arthur Blake commits suicide. Head of Contract Negotiation committee. Dies in 12 story leap.
Joe Dowling
So what?
Mike Waring
Well, don't you get it, Lindsay? This is all tied up with Premium Oil.
Edward Harrell
Is that what it says?
Mike Waring
Oh, but that's the way it figures, Senator. Blake was my contact.
Kenneth Lindsay
Then it's a Blair.
Mike Waring
I relayed all the instructions I got from you to him.
Edward Harrell
Well, you're out of your mind, Horell. There's nothing wrong with Premium Oil.
Kenneth Lindsay
Sure there is.
Mike Waring
I've been convinced of that for a year.
Edward Harrell
Well, then why didn't you talk up before?
Mike Waring
I don't know. Maybe the money was too good, or maybe I was afraid.
Edward Harrell
Oh, you're wrong, Harrell.
Kenneth Lindsay
I.
Mike Waring
Don't be a chump. If premium oil was on the up and up, why would they go for all this hocus pocus?
Edward Harrell
What hocus pocus?
Mike Waring
Well, nobody in this setup knows anyone else but the party gets his instructions from.
Edward Harrell
Well, I guess that just prevents leaks.
Mike Waring
You don't believe that any more than I do. Now, listen, Lindsay, we gotta compare our notes. Who's the guy you get your instructions from?
Edward Harrell
I can't tell you.
Mike Waring
Don't be a SAP, friend. We're playing with dynamite. Who's your contact?
Edward Harrell
Jean Colbert.
Mike Waring
You gotta get in touch with him.
Edward Harrell
I can.
Mike Waring
You got to.
Edward Harrell
But you don't understand, Horel. I've never seen this Colbert. Whenever he's got any message for me, he writes.
Mike Waring
Well, then he must be the head man in this racket.
Edward Harrell
Now, don't call it that.
Sergeant Corbett
Why?
Mike Waring
You got a better name? We gotta face it, Lindsay. They just been using us for tools.
Edward Harrell
Well, there's nothing we can do about it.
Mike Waring
Yes, there is too. I'm gonna get a private detective.
Edward Harrell
I think you're making a mistake, Harrell.
Mike Waring
No. I should have done it a long time ago.
Kenneth Lindsay
You with me?
Edward Harrell
No, I. I'm going to sit quiet for a while.
Mike Waring
You better change your mind, Lindsay. There's plenty of time for that when you're dead.
Joe Dowling
Yum.
Mike Waring
I'd like to talk. Oh, Mr. Warren. My name is Edward Harrell, Father on Sunday?
Kenneth Lindsay
But I need someone else.
Mike Waring
Someone else?
Kenneth Lindsay
Sure. In a city as big as New York, there must be at least two private detectives.
Mike Waring
You don't understand, Warren. Did you read about Senator Blake's suicide?
Kenneth Lindsay
What about us?
Mike Waring
I'm the boy who paid him off.
Kenneth Lindsay
What are you yapping about?
Mike Waring
Another fella named Kenneth Lindsay and myself were employed by Premium Oil, you see. But we didn't know what kind of a racket it was. As a matter of fact, Lindsey still isn't convinced.
Kenneth Lindsay
How come you are?
Mike Waring
Well, I've been doing a little checking on my own.
Kenneth Lindsay
Well, if you've got any information, Harrell, you should turn it over to the proper authorities. Where do you live?
Mike Waring
I'm at The Kimberley. Apartment 4A.
Kenneth Lindsay
You there now?
Mike Waring
Yeah.
Kenneth Lindsay
Well, don't do any more talking on the phone. Your wire may be tapped. I'll be there in half an hour.
Joe Dowling
That you, Warren?
Kenneth Lindsay
Yeah.
Joe Dowling
Okay.
Mike Waring
Come in.
Jean Colbert
Thanks.
Mike Waring
I didn't expect you for another 20 minutes. Let me take you.
Jean Colbert
What's the Matter around.
Mike Waring
You're not wearing.
Jean Colbert
Ain't I?
Mike Waring
No, I've seen.
Jean Colbert
Goes better with my complexion.
Mike Waring
Listen, mister.
Kenneth Lindsay
What?
Mike Waring
You're darn right I am. Especially since I've been listening to the radio.
Kenneth Lindsay
What do you mean?
Mike Waring
Well, according to what I just heard, before Senator Blake committed suicide, an FBI agent dropped around to see him.
Jean Colbert
So?
Mike Waring
So after Blake jumped, this character told Blake's secretary to say where she was. He'd go get the police.
Kenneth Lindsay
P.S.
Mike Waring
He never come back. And the cops think he was a phony.
Jean Colbert
And you think that was me?
Mike Waring
Well, he meets your description. Have you said boy in a khaki trench coat?
Jean Colbert
Well, I guess there's only one way I can prove it to you. You want to see my credentials.
Mike Waring
That might be a good idea.
Jean Colbert
Okay, Harrell. Now, what does this look like?
Mike Waring
What's the idea of the gun?
Jean Colbert
You asked to see it.
Mike Waring
Then I was right.
Jean Colbert
Yeah, but I don't think it'll do you much good.
Kenneth Lindsay
You killed Senator Blake. No.
Jean Colbert
He was obliging enough to save me the trouble. You see, my department.
Joe Dowling
Your.
Mike Waring
Your department?
Jean Colbert
Yeah, the department of dead ends. I'm what you might call the cleanup man for premium oil.
Mike Waring
You're not fooling me. You're Jean Colbert.
Edward Harrell
Who?
Mike Waring
John Colbert.
Jean Colbert
I don't seem to recall that name.
Joe Dowling
How about Kenneth Lindsay?
Jean Colbert
Glad you reminded me. I gotta see him next. Suppose we get this over with.
Mike Waring
Listen, darling, can't we talk this over?
Jean Colbert
I don't think so.
Mike Waring
Well, for Pete's sake, what can you lose?
Jean Colbert
You wouldn't be trying to stall me, would you, Harreld?
Kenneth Lindsay
Why should I?
Jean Colbert
Seems to me you mentioned something about a fellow named Waring being due here.
Kenneth Lindsay
Oh.
Mike Waring
Oh, well, I was wrong.
Jean Colbert
You said it, Harreld. You were wrong, dead wrong.
Mike Waring
Now, now, darling, look.
Joe Dowling
I'll give you.
Marion Crane
Give.
Jean Colbert
Give me what? Too bad. Guess I'll.
Joe Dowling
Yes?
Kenneth Lindsay
Mr. Kenneth Lindsay?
Edward Harrell
That's right.
Kenneth Lindsay
Edward Harrell. Gave me your name.
Edward Harrell
Oh, well, come in.
Kenneth Lindsay
I guess there is such a thing as luck.
Edward Harrell
I beg your pardon?
Kenneth Lindsay
There are eight Kenneth Lindsay's in the phone book. The first time I get the right one.
Edward Harrell
Now, look, mister.
Kenneth Lindsay
Oh, yes, I'm sorry. My name is Mike Waring. I'm working for Harrell.
Edward Harrell
Then he'd hire a detective.
Kenneth Lindsay
Yeah.
Edward Harrell
Sit down.
Kenneth Lindsay
Thanks, Dink. Yes, I could stand one after seeing Harel.
Edward Harrell
Why didn't you bring him along?
Kenneth Lindsay
Cops thought he'd be much more comfortable at the morgue. I think you dropped something, Lindsey.
Edward Harrell
Is this your idea of a joke, Waring?
Kenneth Lindsay
About Harel? Hardly. He was murdered an Hour ago.
Joe Dowling
Who did it?
Kenneth Lindsay
Don't you know?
Edward Harrell
If Horel told you I knew anything about John Colbert.
Kenneth Lindsay
John Colbert? Who's he?
Edward Harrell
Didn't Horel mention him?
Kenneth Lindsay
No. He only gave me your name. That's why I said I was lucky to find you.
Edward Harrell
Suppose I've said now you've got the wrong one.
Kenneth Lindsay
Well, it'd be a little late now. I spotted you for the right one the second I looked into this room.
Sergeant Corbett
How?
Kenneth Lindsay
You got five afternoon papers here and they're all turned to the account of Senator Blake's death.
Edward Harrell
You're pretty smart, aren't you?
Kenneth Lindsay
Not nearly enough. That's why I need your help.
Edward Harrell
Well, I can't tell you a thing. And even if I could, I wouldn't pick you for a confidante.
Kenneth Lindsay
Don't be a fool, Lindsay.
Edward Harrell
I told Horell to keep his mouth shut.
Kenneth Lindsay
That didn't make any difference. Use your head. Blake is dead and so is Harrell. How long do you think you've got?
Edward Harrell
There may be something in what you say.
Kenneth Lindsay
Of course there is. Harrell got his orders from you, didn't he? Yes. And you got them from this Jean Colin.
Edward Harrell
That's right.
Kenneth Lindsay
Who is he?
Edward Harrell
I don't know. I never saw them. Heard from him through the mail.
Kenneth Lindsay
Have you got any of his letters here?
Edward Harrell
Well, yes, but I don't think they'll do you any good. They're all typewritten.
Kenneth Lindsay
May I have them?
Edward Harrell
Yeah, sure.
Kenneth Lindsay
All right. Now, I want to get one thing straight. After you gave Horrell his instructions, he forwarded them to Senator Blake, right?
Edward Harrell
That's what Horell told me. None of us knew any link in the chain except the one next to him.
Kenneth Lindsay
Senator must have kept some sort of records.
Edward Harrell
I don't know.
Kenneth Lindsay
Didn't the paper say something about his having a secretary? Yes.
Edward Harrell
Her name is Marion Crane. But you don't think she can shed any light on the subject?
Kenneth Lindsay
You never can tell, Lindsay. For all we know, she may be the original lady with the lamp. Let's hope she can show us the way.
Joe Dowling
And now here is the news we promised you. Big news from Kraft. It's the nationwide radio premiere of a wonderful new salad oil. Kraft Salad Oil. The first salad oil ever offered for your home use by the makers of all those wonderful craft prepared salad dressings. Now, you know that there are some salad dressings that no one else makes quite like you. You know, too, that many of your prized cooking and baking recipes call for liquid shortening. You also know that for best results, you must use only the best ingredients. And that's why the introduction of craft salad oil is the most exciting kitchen news in years. For craft salad oil is more than just a new oil. It's a new kind of oil. It's fresh and pure as summer sunshine. Lighter bodied, too. Because Kraft salad oil is not just refined, it's super refined. It's produced by a special new super fining process created by Kraft. Because it's lighter bodied, it blends quickly and perfectly with other ingredients in your salad dressings, adds crusty tenderness to things you fry, heavenly fluffiness and moistness to things you bake. Yes, you'll put new magic into your finest recipes with new look for the bottle with the beautiful show grocer. Now back to the Adventures of the Falcon. An hour has passed since Lindsay gave Mike Waring the lead to Marion Crane, Senator Blake's secretary. And now, as we find that little lady, she's obviously got her hands full.
Marion Crane
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Marion Crane
What do you know? Work.
Kenneth Lindsay
That's not nice, Angel.
Marion Crane
Who are you?
Kenneth Lindsay
Name is waring, Ms. Crane.
Marion Crane
Don't you believe in knocking?
Kenneth Lindsay
Well, I didn't want to disturb you. I thought you might be busy. Looks like I showed good judgment there, doesn't it?
Marion Crane
What do you mean?
Kenneth Lindsay
Well, I'll leave it to you, angel. Now, what secretary would want to be heckled while she's opening her boss's safe?
Marion Crane
I was just getting some of my things.
Kenneth Lindsay
It's often nice of The Senate doesn't let you keep all those bonds in there.
Marion Crane
Look, Mr. Waring. What business is this of yours?
Kenneth Lindsay
I'm a private detective, Ms. Crane. I'm working for the late Edward Harrell.
Marion Crane
The late? You mean. Harrell's dead?
Kenneth Lindsay
Then you did know him, huh?
Marion Crane
You know about Colbert?
Kenneth Lindsay
If I did, I wouldn't have to ask you who he was.
Marion Crane
Then why do you want to find him?
Kenneth Lindsay
Because I've got evidence he's responsible for Harrell's death.
Marion Crane
Look, Warren. But I wouldn't. Things that don't concern me.
Kenneth Lindsay
That's very good.
Marion Crane
Say, get out.
Kenneth Lindsay
Okay, Ms. Crane. Don't think it hasn't been nice.
Marion Crane
I know, because it hasn't.
Kenneth Lindsay
Oh, that's where you're wrong, angel. In fact, I was so delighted, I'm going to tell all my friends about you. Especially those in the police force.
Marion Crane
Yeah, you do that.
Sergeant Corbett
Four, two, one.
Joe Dowling
Yeah.
Kenneth Lindsay
Hello?
Marion Crane
Is that you, Wolsey?
Joe Dowling
Who's this?
Marion Crane
Marion Crane.
Joe Dowling
What's up, Marion?
Marion Crane
You better get a wire out to number one. Private detective named Mike Waring just looked in on me.
Joe Dowling
The Falcon. That sounds interesting.
Marion Crane
He said he had evidence against Jean Colbert. I think he's asking for trouble.
Jean Colbert
Okay, Marion.
Joe Dowling
If that's what Mr. Waring wants, it should be easy enough to oblige him. I'll be glad to do my part.
Jean Colbert
Hiya, Pappy.
Kenneth Lindsay
Hi. Well, I'm glad to see you made yourself at home.
Jean Colbert
I didn't think you'd mind worrying. Shut the door.
Kenneth Lindsay
Now listen, mister.
Jean Colbert
Shut it. And your mouth, too, while you're at it. I'd be a good boy and sit right down on that sofa where I can watch you. Right there. That's close enough.
Kenneth Lindsay
Is that the gun that killed Harel?
Jean Colbert
How would you like to find out firsthand?
Kenneth Lindsay
Now, don't bother. What's your name, friend?
Jean Colbert
I've got several. Waring. You can call me anything you like.
Kenneth Lindsay
You know, you're leaving yourself wide open.
Jean Colbert
Look who's talking.
Kenneth Lindsay
Listen.
Jean Colbert
Waring is. Who's that?
Kenneth Lindsay
I have no idea. Get rid of him. Okay.
Jean Colbert
Remember, if you crack out of turn, I'm right behind you.
Edward Harrell
Hello, Waring.
Joe Dowling
Can I come in?
Kenneth Lindsay
Well, I'm awfully busy.
Edward Harrell
I just wanted to hear how you made out with Blake's secretary.
Kenneth Lindsay
I'll call you in the morning. Lindsay.
Jean Colbert
Wait a minute. Your name Lindsay?
Kenneth Lindsay
Yes.
Jean Colbert
Come on in.
Edward Harrell
But Waring said.
Jean Colbert
Mr. Waring just changed his mind.
Edward Harrell
Hey, he's got a gun.
Jean Colbert
That's what changed it. I've been meaning to look in on you, friend. I'M glad you spared me the trip.
Edward Harrell
Say, what's going on here?
Kenneth Lindsay
Don't you get it, Lindsay?
Jean Colbert
If he don't now, he never will.
Kenneth Lindsay
Why? You know Lensy.
Jean Colbert
Let him lay, Waring. I want to finish that little talk we started.
Kenneth Lindsay
What do you want?
Jean Colbert
You've been asking an awful lot of questions about a party named John Colbert.
Kenneth Lindsay
So?
Jean Colbert
So I don't like it.
Kenneth Lindsay
Well that's tough. Give me 24 hours and I'll know who he is.
Jean Colbert
Maybe you've got some sort of evidence.
Kenneth Lindsay
Maybe letters perhaps?
Jean Colbert
I want him, Waring.
Kenneth Lindsay
Well I can't blame you for that.
Jean Colbert
Look, do you turn him over like a nice boy or do you have to be coaxial?
Kenneth Lindsay
Oh look, you won't.
Jean Colbert
What about those letters, Waring?
Kenneth Lindsay
I haven't got them.
Jean Colbert
I hope you got plenty of endurance. Cause brother, you're going to need.
Sergeant Corbett
Oh, you gonna lay there all night? Mike? Are you gonna tell me what happened?
Kenneth Lindsay
Oh look, I told you all I could, Sergeant. Next thing I knew you and Harris are pouring scotch. Dummer. Hey, where is Harris?
Sergeant Corbett
I sent him on an errand.
Kenneth Lindsay
Is Lindsay all right?
Sergeant Corbett
Yeah, the doc had to take a couple of stitches in the scalp and after that he was able to leave. Any idea who Tough boy was?
Kenneth Lindsay
No, I don't think he's local.
Sergeant Corbett
You might be surprised. Was he short, stocky, about 5 7? Blond hair and very white skin?
Kenneth Lindsay
Yeah, that's the boy.
Sergeant Corbett
I thought so.
Kenneth Lindsay
You know him, Corbin?
Sergeant Corbett
Fairly well. His name is Joe Dowling. Dowling, alias Joe Denton, alias Jerry Davis. Shall I continue?
Kenneth Lindsay
Oh, never mind. I get the idea. What gets me is why Dowling didn't stick around to finish the job.
Sergeant Corbett
What job?
Kenneth Lindsay
I got the impression he was going to kill Lindsay.
Sergeant Corbett
Oh, then Mr. Lindsay can thank me for saving his life. I was on my way up to see you and I had him ring you from downstairs. When Dowling heard me coming, he must have beat it out the back way. Now let's get back to those letters from Colbert. Dowling got them, huh?
Kenneth Lindsay
They were in my pocket all along. I was a sucker not to give them to him when he first asked why. Well, there was nothing in those letters that was the least bit incriminating. Didn't tell us a thing about Jean Colbert.
Sergeant Corbett
You must be wrong, Mike. Dowling didn't do that job on you for nothing.
Kenneth Lindsay
Say, wait a minute Sergeant. I'm gonna hunt you.
Sergeant Corbett
That may be for me. Hello? Yes, this is Sergeant Corbett. When? Harris. You sure? Okay, you know what to do. What were you saying, Mike?
Kenneth Lindsay
I think I Know who Jean Colbert is?
Sergeant Corbett
Oh, Dowling, you're nuts.
Kenneth Lindsay
Listen Sergeant, it makes sense. I tell you this. Joe Dowling and Jean Colbert are one and the same.
Sergeant Corbett
There's only one thing wrong with that theory, Mike.
Kenneth Lindsay
You have to show it to me.
Sergeant Corbett
Okay. Come down to the morgue.
Kenneth Lindsay
What for?
Sergeant Corbett
That was Harris who just phoned in. He found Dowling's body 20 minutes ago. Now you're satisfied.
Joe Dowling
Don't forget, tomorrow will be your first chance to try marvelous new craft salad oil on sale now at your grocers. Use this new super fine lighter bodied oil for those wonderful homemade salad dressings that no one can make quite like you. Use it in those wonderful chiffon cakes you take such pride in. Use it in all your cooking or baking recipes that call for liquid shortening. Get craft salad oil in either the pint or quart bottle tomorrow at your groceries. Look for the bottle with the beautiful label. Now back to the adventures of the falcon. 10 minutes have passed since Mike advanced his theory that Joe Dowling and Jean Colbert were one and the same and had it promptly explode in his face. And so great is the Falcon's disappointment that even hard hearted Sergeant Corbett is touched.
Sergeant Corbett
Come on, snap out of it, Mike. We all make mistakes. You just abused the privilege.
Kenneth Lindsay
Well, I don't suppose there's any doubt that the body Harris found is really Dowling.
Sergeant Corbett
None whatsoever. Dowling was just taking orders from Colbert. Like Lindsey, Harrell and Blake.
Kenneth Lindsay
Did they find Colbert's letters on Darling's body?
Sergeant Corbett
No.
Kenneth Lindsay
Then I was wrong. Colbert.
Sergeant Corbett
Nice of you to admit it.
Kenneth Lindsay
No, I mean when I said that the letters were unimportant, Colbert had to have them back. Now why?
Sergeant Corbett
Don't ask me. I never saw them.
Kenneth Lindsay
They certainly looked innocent enough to me.
Sergeant Corbett
How about secret writing?
Kenneth Lindsay
There was no need for that if you knew what Colbert was getting at. The meeting was obvious. There were three of them. They were all identical. All they said was Dear Lindsay. Enclosed police find $25,000 for Harrell's account. Will you see that he gets it? And they were signed John Colbert. Wait a minute. Hold everything.
Sergeant Corbett
Now don't tell me you've got another brainstorm.
Kenneth Lindsay
Yeah. Look. Suppose I told you that John Colbert was a woman?
Sergeant Corbett
You better lay down, Michael.
Kenneth Lindsay
Now listen to me, Sergeant. Nobody's ever seen Colbert. The only trace we have is those letters.
Sergeant Corbett
So?
Kenneth Lindsay
So that's why Colbert had to have him back. Because sooner or later somebody was bound to realize the fallacy. Now look, how do you spell the French name?
Joe Dowling
Jean?
Sergeant Corbett
J, E, A N. And how do.
Kenneth Lindsay
You pronounce that in English.
Sergeant Corbett
Jean.
Kenneth Lindsay
There you are. You see what I mean? It can be a girl's name too.
Sergeant Corbett
But where is there a woman in this case?
Kenneth Lindsay
How about Senator Blake's secretary?
Sergeant Corbett
Marion Crane?
Kenneth Lindsay
Yes. Though I've never been known to pass up a pretty gal. This one you can take.
Marion Crane
Now let me understand you gentlemen. You think that I am Jean Colbert?
Kenneth Lindsay
No, not Jean Colbert, Ms. Crane. Jean Colbert. No.
Marion Crane
That's very funny, Mr. Waring.
Sergeant Corbett
I'm glad you find it amusing.
Marion Crane
Oh, I do, Sergeant. You're basing your entire case on that.
Kenneth Lindsay
No, no, no. There were several other things that gave you away. Such as finding you at the Senator's safe.
Marion Crane
Anything else?
Kenneth Lindsay
Once I realized that Jean was a woman's name, it all added up. You went to work for Senator Blake just to keep tabs on him.
Marion Crane
Why did I hire Lindsay and Harrell?
Kenneth Lindsay
Because you didn't want any trail leading back to you. Then when you heard there was an investigation afoot to look into premium oil, you thought it time to dissolve your organization.
Marion Crane
So I hired Dowling. And then when he did his job, I got rid of it.
Kenneth Lindsay
Yes, Exactly.
Marion Crane
You know, Mr. Waring, this only goes to prove that there is something in woman's intuition. I had a feeling you were going to be an awful nuisance.
Kenneth Lindsay
Well, I'm glad to say you were right. Okay, Marion. Whenever you're ready. Freddie, I don't think Sergeant Corbett is willing to call it a night. So suppose we start for headquarters.
Marion Crane
No, no, no. I'm staying right here.
Kenneth Lindsay
I've got five bucks to say she's wrong.
Marion Crane
Well, put it up and we'll leave it to the sergeant.
Kenneth Lindsay
Watch it, Corbett. Don't ever get to that first.
Marion Crane
I only want to get my wallet and show him this.
Sergeant Corbett
Holy cow.
Kenneth Lindsay
What is it?
Sergeant Corbett
You and your theories. Give her the fiver.
Kenneth Lindsay
What are you talking about?
Sergeant Corbett
Haven't you ever seen a card like this before?
Kenneth Lindsay
No. What? Well, I have.
Sergeant Corbett
And it says that the bearer, Ms. Marion Crane, is an agent of the Department of Justice.
Edward Harrell
It doesn't make sense. Waring. You say Senator Blake's secretary was a federal agent?
Kenneth Lindsay
Yes. She was a plant, Lindsay.
Edward Harrell
Well, couldn't she have forged those credentials?
Kenneth Lindsay
No, Sergeant Corbett has already checked Washington. She's been with him since 45.
Edward Harrell
Well, where do we go from here?
Kenneth Lindsay
Well, the Sergeant and I have been talking it over and we've come to one conclusion. What? We're never going to find Colbert.
Edward Harrell
Well, you can't give up now.
Kenneth Lindsay
What else can we do? Colbert will never be found for One simple reason why he doesn't exist.
Edward Harrell
What are you talking about?
Kenneth Lindsay
He's the little man who wasn't there.
Edward Harrell
I don't follow you, Mike.
Kenneth Lindsay
He's just a figment of the imagination.
Joe Dowling
Whose?
Kenneth Lindsay
Yours, Lindsay.
Edward Harrell
What?
Kenneth Lindsay
Yes. You were the boy who dreamed him up. You gave him life, breath and dimension. What a pity you can't arrange to have him take those 10,000 volts instead of you.
Marion Crane
I'm sorry if I was rough on you, Mike.
Kenneth Lindsay
That's all right, Marion. But must we talk about that now?
Marion Crane
Yes. Yes, we must. You know, our office was working on this case for months, and you could have ruined everything.
Kenneth Lindsay
You don't have to rub it in.
Marion Crane
How did you realize Lindsay was our boy?
Kenneth Lindsay
Well, when I found out you were a government agent, suddenly occurred to me what a beautiful swindle. Lindsay was in a position to work. All we had was his word and several letters that there was actually such a person as Coburn. Lindsay pretended to be just another cog in the wheel.
Marion Crane
Sure, by pretending to follow orders like the rest, he could mask as an innocent tool like Rell.
Kenneth Lindsay
He?
Marion Crane
Didn't Darling know who he was?
Kenneth Lindsay
Yes, he was the only one. That's why Lindsay had to kill him.
Marion Crane
Why did Darling slug him in your apartment?
Kenneth Lindsay
Well, that was a cheap enough price for Lindsay to pay to convince me he was on the up and up. But you'd be surprised if I put me on the right track.
Marion Crane
What?
Kenneth Lindsay
I mentioned to you that I had evidence pointing to Colburn.
Marion Crane
Huh.
Kenneth Lindsay
Well, if you didn't send Dowling around to pick it up, the only other party who could have done it was Lindsay. He was the only other one who knew about the letters then.
Marion Crane
Actually, they were valueless.
Kenneth Lindsay
Sure, Lindsay wrote them just to cover himself.
Marion Crane
Well, guess that takes care of everything.
Kenneth Lindsay
Well, not quite. There's still one thing about this case that bothers me.
Marion Crane
What?
Kenneth Lindsay
You.
Marion Crane
Do I really bother you that much, Mike?
Kenneth Lindsay
Oh, you have no idea, angel.
Marion Crane
What's there about me that disturbs you so?
Kenneth Lindsay
Well, there's your face. Figure most of all. Yes, that five bucks you won for me on that bet. That I'll never get over it.
Joe Dowling
Folks, here's a suggestion for all of you who like and want good candy. Keep craft caramels on hand wherever you are at home for all the family to enjoy at work, to pass around among friends and even in the pocket of your car to enjoy a delightful candy bite while driving. Follow this suggestion, and whenever you get a yen for good candy, pop a yummy, chewy, soft Kraft Caramel into your mouth or whenever you feel tired, eat a Kraft Caramel. This fine candy gives you real energy in a hurry. There's plenty of nourishing milk in Craft Dairy Fresh Caramels besides the other fine pure ingredients, so they're good for you. Ask for Kraft Caramels in the big Thrifty bag at your grocery store and get the six piece bar for a nickel at your candy counter. Either way, you can't miss a real taste treat. Craft Caramel the Case of the Big.
Edward Harrell
Talker.
Joe Dowling
The Case of the Big Talker that's the type of next week's Adventure of the Falcon when Mike Waring learned that to protect yourself from a loudmouth, sometimes you have to use a silencer. So be sure to listen at the 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. Shubert, written today by Eugene Wang and directed by Richard Lewis. Music was by Arlo Les Damon was starred as the Falcon, with Ken lynch as Sergeant Corbett. Be sure to hear the Great Gilder Sleeve next Wednesday evening over most of these stations and 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 local newspaper for time of broadcast. Fred Allen and Judy Holiday visit the Big show today on NBC.
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Release Date: May 1, 2025
Original Air Date: April 22, 1951
Host/Author: Choice Classic Radio
Series Description: Old-time radio enthusiasts are treated to the Golden Age of Radio’s finest detective stories. Each episode features beloved detective characters navigating intricate cases filled with suspense, wit, and unexpected twists.
The episode opens with Kenneth Lindsay, the suave and astute Falcon, receiving an urgent call. At [00:51], Falcon speaks to "Linda," expressing immediate concern over a dangerous situation involving a baby and a newly acquired gun:
Kenneth Lindsay (Falcon): "Linda, I'm glad you called. Now you'll have to cancel me out tonight, angel. I've got to take a toy away from the baby. Someone just bought this baby a gun. And unless I stop her, she figures to get quite a bang out of it."
This sets the stage for a high-stakes investigation, hinting at underlying threats and hidden agendas.
As the narrative unfolds, Senator Arthur Blake becomes a pivotal character. At [04:01], Jean Colbert arrives at Senator Blake's office under the guise of an FBI agent, stirring suspicion:
Jean Colbert: "Senator, did you ever hear of an outfit called Premium Oil?"
Falcon, adopting his investigative role, engages in a dialogue that uncovers a possible embezzlement scheme involving the sale of petroleum products to the Navy during the war. The Senator's alleged involvement with Premium Oil raises red flags about the legitimacy of the transactions:
Jean Colbert: "It is when Colbert and his phony company never delivered even a jar of Vaseline for all that dough."
The plot thickens as Falcon interacts with Sergeant Corbett and dives deeper into the Premium Oil scandal. By [07:02], Falcon suspects foul play, particularly focusing on the sudden suicide of Senator Blake:
Sergeant Corbett: "He must have been involved deeper than we thought."
Falcon's investigation reveals discrepancies in the Senator's dealings, suggesting that the lucrative oil sales were a front for more nefarious activities. The involvement of multiple characters masquerading under different identities adds layers of complexity to the case.
A significant twist occurs when Mike Waring, a private detective, contacts Falcon to share critical information about Jean Colbert. At [10:03], Waring admits:
Mike Waring: "I've got something tied up with Premium Oil. They just been using us for tools."
This revelation leads Falcon to suspect that Jean Colbert is orchestrating a larger scheme, manipulating various individuals to cover their tracks. The true identity and intentions of Colbert remain elusive, propelling Falcon further into the mystery.
The climax builds as Falcon confronts Jean Colbert in [16:37], leading to a high-tension showdown. Colbert's true nature is unveiled when it’s discovered that:
Marion Crane: "Now let me understand you gentlemen. You think that I am Jean Colbert?"
This pivotal moment reveals that Marion Crane, initially perceived as Senator Blake's secretary, is actually a Department of Justice agent. The revelation shatters Falcon's assumptions and exposes the depth of the conspiracy orchestrated by Colbert—a non-existent entity used to manipulate and eliminate obstacles within the investigation.
In the resolution, Falcon acknowledges the intricacies of the case and the deceptive tactics employed by Jean Colbert. At [24:55], Falcon reflects on the elusive nature of truth in their investigation:
Kenneth Lindsay (Falcon): "He's just a figment of the imagination. He's the little man who wasn't there."
This realization underscores the themes of deception, the complexity of justice, and the importance of intuition and perseverance in detective work. The episode concludes with a reaffirmation of Falcon's commitment to uncovering the truth, no matter how convoluted the path may be.
[00:51]
Kenneth Lindsay (Falcon): "Linda, I'm glad you called. Now you'll have to cancel me out tonight, angel."
[03:12]
Jean Colbert: "You can get your things and come along with me."
[08:00]
Kenneth Lindsay: "You're darn right I am. Especially since I've been listening to the radio."
[10:10]
Kenneth Lindsay: "I think I know who Jean Colbert is?"
[22:33]
Kenneth Lindsay: "No, not Jean Colbert, Ms. Crane."
[24:55]
Kenneth Lindsay (Falcon): "He's just a figment of the imagination."
"The Falcon: The Case of the Missing Miss" masterfully intertwines elements of suspense, mystery, and psychological intrigue. The episode highlights:
Deception and Misdirection: Characters often present false identities and motives, keeping both Falcon and the audience guessing.
The Complexity of Justice: The narrative delves into the challenges of uncovering the truth within layers of corruption and manipulation.
Intuition and Deduction: Falcon's ability to piece together disparate clues emphasizes the importance of keen observation and reasoning in detective work.
Overall, this episode stands as a testament to the rich storytelling and engaging character development that defined the Golden Age of Radio Detectives.