The Falcon: The Case of the Natural Seven 03/02/1952

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Falcon: The Case of the Natural Seven (03/02/1952)

Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Host: Choice Classic Radio
Episode Theme: The Falcon – “The Case of the Natural Seven”
Original Air Date: March 2, 1952
Summary Timestamped Sections: Main content starts at [01:11], ad breaks and non-content skipped

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Overview

This episode presents a classic tale of gambling, desperation, and murder, centering on detective Mike Waring (The Falcon) as he investigates a shooting tied to a high-stakes debt in a New York gambling house. The mystery unravels through colorful characters, sharp dialogue, and clever deductions, all steeped in the hard-boiled tone of 1950s radio detective drama.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Developments

1. The Gambling House & The Debt ([01:11]-[05:40])

• Setting: Frenchy Devlin’s gambling club, East 70s, New York.
• Incident: Steve Richards, deep in debt, gambles recklessly and loses $5,000 on a single roll, outbidding the table's $500 limit.
• Key Dynamics:
  • Steve can't pay, tries to negotiate with Frenchy, who insists on an IOU payable in ten days.
  • Frenchy, holding the IOU, asserts dominance and threatens Steve with a gun if he doesn’t expect to repay:

    "I got a gun that says I’m right." – Frenchy Devlin ([05:40])

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2. The Failed Robbery and Initial Shooting ([05:50]-[08:04])

• Safe Incident: Steve is caught attempting to rob a safe and, in panicked confrontation, shoots Al Morgan—Frenchy’s partner.
• Denial & Tension: Steve is recognized by voice, denies being the shooter but fails to convince Mike.
• Consequences: Steve flees, the situation intensifies.

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3. The Reckoning with Frenchy ([09:45]-[10:27])

• Debt Pressure: Frenchy and his muscle Nick Zale rough up Steve for the IOU, believing he's got stolen money.

• Mike Steps In:

  • Mike Waring arrives, identifies himself as a friend of Morgan and a detective.
  • Steve admits to robbing the safe but insists he didn't steal anything and didn’t intend to shoot.

  "I’ll make it up to him. I swear, Mr. Waring, if it’s the last thing I do." – Steve Richards ([10:20])

• Resolution Attempt: Mike tells Steve that Morgan won’t prosecute, realizing Steve acted out of desperation.

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4. Frenchy’s Murder & The Investigation ([13:48]-[14:51])

• Murder: Frenchy is shot dead in his apartment, witnessed by his wife June.
• Police/Suspects: At police headquarters, June Devlin gives a vague description of the killer, suggesting he was “about your size” to Sergeant Corbett ([15:24]).
• Conflict of Interest: June claims Mike Waring threatened Frenchy earlier—a setup providing him with an alibi.

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5. Unravelling the Case ([16:26]-[22:18])

• Alibis & Motives:

  • Mike recounts the night’s events to Sergeant Corbett, explaining Steve’s motive from a gambling loss.
  • Nick Zale is considered a suspect, but has a tight alibi, having been at police HQ during the time of murder.

• June’s Story Unravels:

  • Mike catches her in a lie about her vantage point during the murder ([20:03])
  • Suggests June’s possible affair with Nick Zale, adding an angle to motives and relationships.

  "Look at the layout of this room. Well, your sofa is right next to the door... you couldn't possibly see anyone behind it." – Mike Waring ([20:19])

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6. The Confrontation and Takedown ([22:40]-[29:31])

• Nick’s Alibi:

  • Nick Zale kidnaps Mike, seemingly to silence or threaten, but Sergeant Corbett confirms Zale’s alibi—he could not be the killer.

• The Solution & Trap:

  • Realizing the real killer must be Steve, Mike and Corbett devise a plan and confront him.
  • Steve tries to pull a gun but is outsmarted—Mike emptied the weapon in advance.

  "There’s nothing to worry about, Sergeant. I noticed it the first time I was here, so I removed the shells." – Mike Waring ([28:17])

• Confession and Booking: Steve admits his motive was revenge and impulse after the beating he suffered.

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7. Final Reflections ([29:38]-[30:21])

• Motivation:

  • Mike explains Steve’s rage boiled over after his rough treatment from Frenchy; Steve “never learned to stifle his impulse.”
  • Sergeant Corbett jokes about his own frustration with Mike, adding trademark banter typical of the series.

  "There’s one character I run across occasionally, and every time I do I get a mad desire to throttle him… You!" – Sergeant Corbett ([29:58])

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Memorable Quotes

• Frenchy Devlin (threatening Steve over the IOU):

  "I got a gun that says I’m right." ([05:40])

• Steve Richards (expressing regret):

  "I’ll make it up to him. I swear, Mr. Waring, if it’s the last thing I do." ([10:20])

• Mike Waring (catching June’s lie):

  "Look at the layout of this room. Well, your sofa is right next to the door... you couldn't possibly see anyone behind it." ([20:19])

• Sergeant Corbett (comic banter):

  "There’s one character I run across occasionally, and every time I do I get a mad desire to throttle him… You!" ([29:58])

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Notable Moments & Timestamps

• [01:11] – The Falcon gets the call about the case
• [02:13] – Steve Richards’ gambling streak and dramatic $5,000 bet
• [05:40] – Frenchy menaces Steve over unpaid debt
• [09:45] – Steve admits to the safe robbery; Mike intervenes
• [13:48] – Frenchy Devlin is murdered
• [14:51] – June Devlin's vague testimony begins
• [20:19] – Mike exposes June’s inconsistency
• [27:57] – Steve is confronted as the true killer; pulls gun
• [29:38] – Mike and Corbett’s closing reflections

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Tone and Style

The episode is classic radio noir: witty, quick-paced, full of sharp one-liners, dramatic tension, and moral grayness. Mike Waring is tough but compassionate, cool under fire, and unafraid to call out deception. The other characters—wily, desperate, or duplicitous—round out a gritty urban tale of crime and consequence.

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Conclusion

The Case of the Natural Seven blends high-stakes gambling, personal downfall, and swift detective work into a compelling 30-minute radio drama. For listeners, it offers a window into the golden era of detective fiction, with a tight script, memorable dialogue, and moral lessons about impulse, desperation, and retribution.

Transcript

[Narrator/Announcer]

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[Mike Waring]

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[Frenchy Devlin]

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[Mike Waring]

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[Narrator/Storyteller]

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

[Mike Waring]

Hello? Yes, this is the Falcon speaking. Oh, Kathy, I'm glad you called. Now you'll have to count me out tonight, angel. I've got to see a man about a gambling debt. Mm, some boy I know tried to make a seven the hard way and discovered murder was a natural.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Once again, the National Broadcasting Company brings you the transcribed Adventures of the Falcon starring Les Damon. The Adventures of the Falcon dedicated to private investigators everywhere. Those hard hitting detectives who like Mike Waring, risk their lives to aid law enforcement agencies. So join him now when the Falcon solves the case of the natural 7. It is late evening in New York and at Frenchy Devlin's, a gambling house in the East 70s, a young man named Steve Richards is conducting an interesting experiment. Steve's trying to get a pair of ivory cubes to come up the right way.

[Steve Richards]

Come on dice, don't be good to papa. All I want is one little natural.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Eight is the point.

[Mike Waring]

Eight. Get your bets down, gentlemen.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Get your bets down. Point is good.

[Steve Richards]

Let's make it the hard way. Two little balls will do it.

[Mike Waring]

Six and a three.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

A six and a three.

[Mike Waring]

The point is still eight. Place your bets.

[Steve Richards]

Ada from the bet. Come on dice.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Now show em seven a loser.

[Mike Waring]

Pay the line. Well, I guess this isn't your night, Mr. Richards.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Who's next?

[Steve Richards]

Wait a minute. What about one more roll?

[Mike Waring]

Have to wait your turn. It's okay with me, Nick.

[Steve Richards]

Let him shoot. Thanks, fella. Let him shoot. I tell you what I'll do. I'll roll you one time for 5,000. What do you say?

[Mike Waring]

Sorry Mr. Richards, there's a $500 limit at this table, but you got to.

[Steve Richards]

Give me a chance to get even.

[Mike Waring]

What you don't seem to understand is that I just work here. I don't make the rules.

[Steve Richards]

Where's the boss?

[Mike Waring]

Well, he was here just. Oh, Mr. Devlin. Mr. Devlin.

[Frenchy Devlin]

What's the trouble, Nick?

[Mike Waring]

There's no trouble. This gentleman would like to see you.

[Steve Richards]

What kind of a place do you call us, anyway? I thought it was supposed to be a gambling house. Well, but where's your sporting blood? Nick tells me I can't bet more.

[Frenchy Devlin]

Than $500, and that's not rich enough for your blood.

[Steve Richards]

No, I want to shoot 5,000.

[Frenchy Devlin]

One roll. Yeah, well, that raises a peculiar point, mister. I'm sorry, I don't believe I caught your name.

[Steve Richards]

It's Richards. Steve Richards.

[Frenchy Devlin]

All right, Mr. Richards, you're faded. Give him the dice, Nick.

[Steve Richards]

Well, I. I take it back, Frenchie.

[Mike Waring]

You're a sport.

[Frenchy Devlin]

Thanks.

[Steve Richards]

Come on, dice. Be good to papa. Just one time.

[Mike Waring]

Four is the point.

[Steve Richards]

All right, Little Joe, let's do it.

[Mike Waring]

Seven. Elusive.

[Frenchy Devlin]

Satisfied now, Mr. Richards?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yeah.

[Steve Richards]

Yeah, I'm satisfied.

[Frenchy Devlin]

I think you need a drink. No, I'm all right. I insist. After all, you're my guest.

[Steve Richards]

But I tell you, I don't need.

[Frenchy Devlin]

Just follow me. Are you a native of New York?

[Steve Richards]

Yeah.

[Frenchy Devlin]

I don't believe I ever saw you.

[Mike Waring]

At the club before.

[Steve Richards]

This was my first trip.

[Frenchy Devlin]

I do hope it won't be your last.

[Mike Waring]

Right in here.

[Frenchy Devlin]

Now for that drink.

[Mike Waring]

Now.

[Steve Richards]

Please, don't bother. I never touch the stuff.

[Frenchy Devlin]

I suppose you don't smoke, either.

[Mike Waring]

No. No, I don't. Model.

[Frenchy Devlin]

Young man, I wonder who. Oh, do you have your own check, or would you like a blank?

[Mike Waring]

Huh?

[Frenchy Devlin]

In case you've forgotten, you just lost $5,000 to me. Naturally, I assumed we were playing for cash.

[Steve Richards]

Look, Frenchie, there's. There's something I gotta tell you.

[Frenchy Devlin]

You don't have the money?

[Mike Waring]

No.

[Frenchy Devlin]

Well, that's very embarrassing.

[Steve Richards]

I don't know what possessed me. I thought if I won.

[Frenchy Devlin]

But you didn't. Well, those are the fortunes of war. Still, you must appreciate my position. If I lost, you would have expected to collect.

[Steve Richards]

I'm not trying to excuse myself.

[Frenchy Devlin]

Well, you needn't worry, Steve. I may call you Steve. I'll take your IOU, payable in 10 days.

[Steve Richards]

My IOU?

[Mike Waring]

Yes.

[Frenchy Devlin]

I've got an idea. You make good.

[Steve Richards]

Well, I'm afraid I can't. I haven't got a prospect in the world.

[Frenchy Devlin]

Still, I think you'll pay Off.

[Mike Waring]

Want to bet?

[Frenchy Devlin]

I got a gun that says I'm right.

[Steve Richards]

46 left, 32 right, 24 left. How did you do it?

[Frenchy Devlin]

Who's there?

[Mike Waring]

I said, who's there? You better come out from behind that safe.

[Steve Richards]

All right, mister, get him up.

[Mike Waring]

What? You heard me.

[Steve Richards]

Get him up.

[Mike Waring]

Wait a minute.

[Steve Richards]

I'm not waiting for anything. Now raise him before I plug.

[Mike Waring]

I know you from someplace.

[Steve Richards]

You're out of your mind.

[Mike Waring]

Still, I'd like a look at you without that mask.

[Steve Richards]

I bet you would. Now you're gonna raise your hand.

[Mike Waring]

Steve Richards, isn't it? What? Sure, I thought I recognized your voice. Now have you gone crazy, Steve?

[Steve Richards]

You're the one who's crazy. Who's this richest guy, anyway?

[Mike Waring]

A man who works for me.

[Steve Richards]

Well, I never heard of him.

[Mike Waring]

And how'd you know the combination of the saf.

[Steve Richards]

You've been in this racket as long as I have, Morgan.

[Mike Waring]

How did you know my name was Morgan?

[Steve Richards]

Well, I can read, can I? It's on a door.

[Mike Waring]

It won't wash. Steve, now look, if you're in trouble, get back. I mean it. If you're in a jam, I'll help you now, but don't be a fool. You'll never get away with this.

[Steve Richards]

I'd like to see someone stop me.

[Mike Waring]

I know it's you.

[Steve Richards]

Look, I ain't gonna argue with you. You're just plain screwy.

[Mike Waring]

Well, there's one way to find.

[Steve Richards]

Mr. Morgan. Mr. Morgan, I didn't mean it. I swear I didn't. You gotta believe me. You gotta. Who's there? Who's there? Can you come back later?

[Frenchy Devlin]

I'm afraid not.

[Steve Richards]

All right, all right. Just a second.

[Frenchy Devlin]

Hello, Steve.

[Mike Waring]

Hello.

[Frenchy Devlin]

You remember Nicky's sale?

[Mike Waring]

Sure he does.

[Steve Richards]

What do you guys want?

[Frenchy Devlin]

It probably slipped your mind, but I hold your IOU for 5,000. By an odd coincidence, it's due today.

[Steve Richards]

But I can't make it good.

[Frenchy Devlin]

I was surprised to hear that, Steve. Especially after what I read in the papers this morning.

[Steve Richards]

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

[Frenchy Devlin]

Don't you work for Alfred Morgan? Yeah, but it seems he played host to a masked burglar last night and got shot for his pain.

[Steve Richards]

Well, what's that got to do with me?

[Frenchy Devlin]

Well, I was just putting two and two together. Now, if you were the thief.

[Steve Richards]

I wasn't.

[Frenchy Devlin]

I'm merely assuming. But if you were, then of course you'd have my money.

[Steve Richards]

I wasn't the burglar.

[Frenchy Devlin]

I think you were.

[Steve Richards]

Did Morgan say so?

[Frenchy Devlin]

No. He claims he didn't recognize the man, but I've got a hunch he's lying.

[Steve Richards]

Why should he?

[Frenchy Devlin]

To protect you. A form of noblesse oblige.

[Steve Richards]

Well, you're wrong.

[Frenchy Devlin]

Why are your bags packed?

[Steve Richards]

Well, I. I was just going away on a little vacation.

[Frenchy Devlin]

At a time when Mr. Morgan needs you most? That's not nice.

[Steve Richards]

All right, all right, Frenchie. I'll tell you the truth.

[Frenchy Devlin]

That'd be a welcome chance.

[Steve Richards]

I was the burglar, but I didn't take a dime. After I shot Morgan, I beat it.

[Frenchy Devlin]

Well, that wasn't very bright. As long as the damage was done.

[Steve Richards]

I tell you, I didn't take a penny.

[Frenchy Devlin]

I think you're liar.

[Steve Richards]

I don't care what you think.

[Frenchy Devlin]

Perhaps not, but Nick does. All right, Nick.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Come on, punk.

[Mike Waring]

Where's the dog? Where is it?

[Steve Richards]

Let me.

[Mike Waring]

I'll let. You're going to get that dough if I have to break every bone in your body. And frankly, fella, that's just the way I'd like. All right, Steve, take a slug of. Go on, go on. It's good for what ails you.

[Steve Richards]

Who you?

[Mike Waring]

Mike Waring. Mike Waring? I'm a private detective.

[Steve Richards]

You know, the one they call a fork?

[Mike Waring]

Wanna bet?

[Steve Richards]

What are you doing here?

[Mike Waring]

Al Morgan sent me around.

[Steve Richards]

Morgan?

[Mike Waring]

Yes. You plugged him last night.

[Steve Richards]

No, I didn't.

[Mike Waring]

Cut it out, Steve. He recognized you.

[Steve Richards]

I guess I might as well admit it.

[Mike Waring]

You might as well.

[Steve Richards]

I suppose you come to arrest me, huh?

[Mike Waring]

No, Morgan doesn't want that. He figures you wouldn't have tried to tap the safe unless you were in a jam. You mean he's not going to prosecute? Talk about turning the other cheek.

[Steve Richards]

I'll make it up to him. I swear, Mr. Waring, if it's the last thing I do.

[Mike Waring]

Never mind the promises. What happened here?

[Steve Richards]

I was beaten up.

[Mike Waring]

That I can see for myself. Who did it?

[Steve Richards]

Frenchy Devlin. I'll kill him for this.

[Mike Waring]

Don't talk like a fool. What prompted Frenchie, huh? He must have had a reason.

[Steve Richards]

I gave him an iou.

[Mike Waring]

So that's why you tried your hand at safecracking.

[Steve Richards]

Must have been crazy.

[Mike Waring]

I won't argue the point.

[Steve Richards]

What are you gonna do?

[Mike Waring]

Well, Morgan's willing to forgive and forget. Let's see if I can prevail upon Frenchie Devlin to do likew.

[Narrator/Announcer]

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[Mike Waring]

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[Narrator/Announcer]

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[Frenchy Devlin]

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[Narrator/Announcer]

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[Mike Waring]

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[Narrator/Announcer]

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[Mike Waring]

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[Narrator/Announcer]

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[June Devlin]

Yes?

[Mike Waring]

Hello, Mrs. Devlin.

[June Devlin]

Do I know you?

[Mike Waring]

I don't think so. My name is Mike Waring.

[June Devlin]

Well, how did you know I was Mrs. Devlin?

[Mike Waring]

I'm a detective.

[June Devlin]

I beg your pardon?

[Mike Waring]

Well, I came up here to see Frenchie and you opened the door, so I made a suitable deduction.

[June Devlin]

Oh, remarkable.

[Mike Waring]

No, no. Elementary. May I come in?

[June Devlin]

Please do.

[Mike Waring]

Where's your husband?

[June Devlin]

Out. Let me take your coat.

[Mike Waring]

But you said Frenchie wasn't home.

[June Devlin]

That's why I'd like to see you comfortable. Aren't you a friend of his?

[Mike Waring]

No, not particularly. As a matter of fact, I can't stand the guy.

[June Devlin]

Careful, Mr. Waring. You must remember I'm his wife.

[Mike Waring]

Well, I don't imagine you work too hard at it.

[June Devlin]

Oh, but I do. Can I get you a drink?

[Mike Waring]

No, thanks. Just tell Frenchie to lay off Steve Richards. If he knows what's good for him.

[June Devlin]

Pardon?

[Mike Waring]

He'll understand.

[June Devlin]

Oh, you're not leaving.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, but I am.

[June Devlin]

Why not? Leave your card? If Frenchie doesn't get back to you, maybe I will. Who's there?

[Frenchy Devlin]

It's only me, June. You sound disappointed.

[June Devlin]

Maybe I am.

[Frenchy Devlin]

You don't want to talk that way, Darling. You give people wrong ideas.

[Mike Waring]

I give Pop a kiss.

[June Devlin]

Will you stop pawing me?

[Frenchy Devlin]

You're not that fussy with other people. Why discriminate against me?

[June Devlin]

What are you hinting at?

[Frenchy Devlin]

You must think I'm blind. Well, I'm not. Lover, I know what's going on.

[June Devlin]

You're crazy.

[Frenchy Devlin]

Come here, baby. I want to show you something.

[June Devlin]

Frenchie, I'm warning you, stay away from me.

[Frenchy Devlin]

Or you'll do what?

[June Devlin]

I mean it. Stay away from me.

[Steve Richards]

Frenchie.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Frenchie.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

You have a lot of driving to do between now and spring, and some of it will be made more difficult by bad weather. That means extra caution on your part to avoid an accident. A little extra attention to the rules of driving safety will help you to avoid an accident that could spell tragedy for you, your family or friends. First of all, be sure that your car, especially the brakes and tires, is in perfect condition before you start. And have tire chains handy in case you need them. Second, drive slowly. Third, watch the traffic signals and obey them. And fourth, signal for all stops and turns. Guard against traffic accidents this winter. Drive carefully for your Life. And now back to the adventures of the Falcon. Two hours have passed since Frenchy Devlin was murdered. And now, at police headquarters, the distraught widow pours out her version of the affair in the sympathetic ears of Sergeant Corbett.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Now, now, now, Mrs. Devlin, I know how you feel, but you gotta be brave.

[June Devlin]

I'll try.

[Sergeant Corbett]

That's the ticket.

[June Devlin]

Oh, Sergeant, you're so understanding. I never dreamed a policeman could be so nice.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, we. We're not the monsters people think. Now, is there anything else you can tell me?

[June Devlin]

No, no, it all happened so quickly. Frenchie had just walked in. He didn't even have time to take off his coat when the killer fired.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Did you get a look at him?

[June Devlin]

Just a peek. He seemed to be about your size.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Was he stocky or thin?

[June Devlin]

I couldn't say for sure.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You're not giving us much to go on.

[Mike Waring]

What?

[June Devlin]

If you're going to press me, I'd say it was thin. Oh, and I think of poor Frenchie.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Now, now, now, Mrs. Devlin, I'm sorry. Would you happen to know if your husband had any enemies?

[June Devlin]

Oh, no, no, Everybody loved him.

[Mike Waring]

He.

[June Devlin]

Well, I almost forgot. A man was around today and threatened him.

[Mike Waring]

Who?

[June Devlin]

Wait a minute. I think I've got his card in my purse.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yes, Mike Waring.

[June Devlin]

Do you know him?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yes, very well. All right, Mrs. Devlin, you go on home. I'd like to escort you, but I have a call to make.

[Mike Waring]

Just a second.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Hello, Mike.

[Mike Waring]

Hello, Sergeant Corbett.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Long time no see.

[Mike Waring]

It must be at least two weeks. What brings you to this neck of the woods?

[Sergeant Corbett]

This.

[Mike Waring]

That looks like one of my business cards. It is.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You remember handing any out today?

[Mike Waring]

No. Oh, wait a minute. Yeah, yeah. I gave one to June Devlin to pass on to her husband.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Was there a threat attached?

[Mike Waring]

What are you getting at?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, brace yourself for a shock, kiddo.

[Mike Waring]

Frenchy was murdered once more.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Oh, you heard me the first time. He was gunned at 4:30 this afternoon.

[Mike Waring]

Who did it?

[Sergeant Corbett]

That's the question of the day. What game with you two?

[Mike Waring]

Oh, it's a long story.

[Sergeant Corbett]

That's okay. I got loads of time.

[Mike Waring]

All right, hold on to your hat. Cause it gets a little involved. You know Al Morgan?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Oh, the guy who was gunned by a burglar last night?

[Mike Waring]

Mm. Morgan's a friend of mine. The boy who shot him was Steve Richardson.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Look, if you've been holding out on me.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, no, don't go off half cocked. There's nothing else I could do. Morgan won't prosecute.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Why not?

[Mike Waring]

Because Steve works for him. Seems the kid was in A jam. He needed money.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Who doesn't? Where does Frenchie fit into this?

[Mike Waring]

Now? Steve owed Frenchie the dough on a gambling debt when the kid couldn't pay off Frenchy and Nick Zale took it out of his hide.

[Sergeant Corbett]

So you went over to ask Frenchy to lay off.

[Mike Waring]

That's very interesting. Well, personally, I thought it was kind of dull.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, that's because you're too close to the picture. What's this Steve Richards look like?

[Mike Waring]

It's pretty hard to say. His own mother wouldn't know him after the workout Frenchie and Nick gave him.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Is he about my size?

[Mike Waring]

Why?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Because Mrs. Devlin got a fast look at the killer. According to her, he was about 5 foot 9 and on the thin side.

[Mike Waring]

Does that fit? Steve Richards fits a million people.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yeah, Mike, but we don't have a million suspects. Let's go see what this one has to say about it.

[Steve Richards]

Mike, I don't know anything about it. It's all Greek to me.

[Mike Waring]

You sure you haven't budged from this room since I saw you?

[Sergeant Corbett]

No. I don't believe it.

[Steve Richards]

It's all right, Sergeant. I don't blame you. I behave like a first class jerk.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You certainly have.

[Steve Richards]

Wouldn't I be a fool to jeopardize everything after Morgan gave me another chance?

[Mike Waring]

How did you wind up in Frenchy's club in the first place? And don't tell me you needed money for your mother's operation.

[Steve Richards]

No, it's even more obvious than that. I thought I could get something for nothing. So I pulled out every dime I had in the bank and tried my luck.

[Mike Waring]

It wasn't very good.

[Steve Richards]

Well, I guess I'm the kind of guy who has to learn the hard way.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, Mr. Waring, where do we go from here?

[Mike Waring]

I don't know about you, Sergeant, but I've got an idea. I'll let you know how I make out. Hello, Mrs. Devlin.

[June Devlin]

Well, if it isn't the bad penny. Come in.

[Mike Waring]

I understand I'm indebted to you.

[June Devlin]

How so?

[Mike Waring]

Didn't you give my card to Sergeant Corbett?

[June Devlin]

I thought you might like some publicity.

[Mike Waring]

No, not me. I'm the modest type. Corbett tells me you saw the man who killed your husband.

[June Devlin]

Well, not exactly.

[Mike Waring]

Well, you got a close enough look. So you'd recognize him if you saw him again.

[June Devlin]

I think so.

[Mike Waring]

Would you mind describing how it happened?

[June Devlin]

I told the Sergeant.

[Mike Waring]

Now tell me.

[June Devlin]

Well, Frenchie had just come in. He was going over to the bar to pour himself a drink. Just then the door behind him opened.

[Mike Waring]

Where were you?

[June Devlin]

During all this, sitting right there on the sofa.

[Mike Waring]

You're lying, Angel.

[June Devlin]

What?

[Mike Waring]

I said you're lying. Look at the layout of this room. Well, your sofa is right next to the door. And the way the door is hinged. If you were sitting where you claim, you couldn't possibly see anyone behind it.

[June Devlin]

You're crazy.

[Mike Waring]

If you'd like me to demonstrate.

[June Devlin]

If I did, I wouldn't have you work on the door.

[Mike Waring]

Look, Mrs. Devlin.

[June Devlin]

June.

[Mike Waring]

The police suspect my client of killing your husband. Your client? Yes. Steve Richards.

[June Devlin]

So?

[Mike Waring]

So Steve's allergic to chairs, particularly those wired for sound. It's my job to keep him out of it.

[June Devlin]

For which you get paid?

[Mike Waring]

That's right.

[June Devlin]

If I'm not too personal, what are your rates?

[Mike Waring]

I get $100 a day, plus expenses.

[June Devlin]

Oh, that's no money for a man like you. Suppose I could triple it.

[Mike Waring]

What would I have to do to earn it?

[June Devlin]

Just keep me company.

[Mike Waring]

Wouldn't I be in the way when your other friends came to call?

[June Devlin]

What other friends?

[Mike Waring]

Angel. Gal like you must have millions. How about Nicky Zale?

[June Devlin]

What?

[Mike Waring]

Well, with Nick working for Frenchie, it would have been so convenient.

[June Devlin]

How dare you.

[Mike Waring]

Some mighty nice right you got.

[June Devlin]

Now get out.

[Mike Waring]

All right, Angel. And I'll be back. I never could resist strong women. Hello?

[June Devlin]

Nick, is that you?

[Mike Waring]

Yeah.

[June Devlin]

June.

[Mike Waring]

You got rocks in your head? What's the idea of calling me up now? Hang up.

[June Devlin]

Nick, I gotta see you.

[Mike Waring]

I told you to hang up. This wire may be tapped.

[June Devlin]

Look, you don't understand. Mike Waring was just here. He doesn't believe that story I gave the police.

[Mike Waring]

What he thinks doesn't bother me.

[June Devlin]

Well, he knows about you.

[Mike Waring]

Who told him?

[June Devlin]

I don't know. He must have guessed.

[Mike Waring]

You don't guess about things like that, Nick.

[June Devlin]

You shouldn't have killed him.

[Frenchy Devlin]

What did you say?

[June Devlin]

Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't mean that.

[Mike Waring]

I don't like that kind of talk.

[June Devlin]

Look, I apologized, didn't I? What are you going to do about wearing? You've simply got a.

[Mike Waring]

All right, June, I got the message. Now relax now. Give it my immediate attention. Hey, buddy.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Buddy?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Me?

[Mike Waring]

Yeah. Come with you for match? Sure, I got one. Well, but isn't Nikki Zale? Small world, ain't it? Too small. I want to talk to you. Sure. Let's go to my place. Why bother? I got a car parked in the alley. Oh, I hate talking in cars. You don't have much choice. You see what I mean? I see. All right. Forward march. Well, I bet you've been talking to June Devlin. Never mind who I've been talking to. It's pretty dull you got there, Nick. Of course, when I say you got, I use the term loosely. Shut up. Don't tell me you crossed her. You gotta keep that mouth shut. Sure. Well, what now? Try that blue Nash you're gonna drive. I hope it's got Hydramatic. Don't be funny. I didn't mean to be. Get behind the wheel. Yes, sir, a starter up. And no funny business. Okay, now head for the George Washington Bridge. I know a nice quiet spot on the other side. Hey, you're pretty low on gas. What are you worried about? You won't have to walk back. Get going.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Last year, thousands of Americans who tried to get away with carelessness on the highways were killed or permanently injured in traffic accidents.

[Mike Waring]

No.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Accidents don't always happen to the other fellow. Unless you are meticulous in your observance of the rules of highway safety, you and your loved ones are vulnerable to the menace of traffic accidents. Most frequent causes of such accidents are speed too great for the conditions of the road, failure to keep to the right of the center line, and immoderate drinking by the driver. Every motorist should learn and obey traffic signals and signs. Every motorist should be alert and careful every moment behind the wheel. Every motorist and pedestrian should take an active role in supporting the safety movement in his or her community. Encourage driver training in your high schools. Teach your children the rules of safety on the highway. And remember, the life you save may be your own. And now back to the adventures of the falcon. 35 minutes have passed since Nick Zale offered to take Mike Waring for a ride. And now, five miles beyond the George Washington Bridge.

[Mike Waring]

All right, Waring, slow down. Pull out of that side road there. Okay. Any place along here will be fine. All right, get out. What for? This is so cozy. You gonna get out? Okay, Nick. I suppose you join me.

[Steve Richards]

Let go.

[Frenchy Devlin]

Let go or I'll shoot.

[Mike Waring]

No, you don't. Oh, you nasty man.

[June Devlin]

Ah.

[Mike Waring]

Drop it. So you want to play rough, huh?

[Steve Richards]

Yeah.

[Mike Waring]

Leave me alone.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I'll let you alone. Not so tough without that gun, are you?

[Mike Waring]

All right. Now get back in the car. This time you drive. You're gonna take me for another ride, and I guarantee you'll like this even less.

[Sergeant Corbett]

That's all well and good, Mike, but you heard what the man claims. He says he just wanted to talk.

[Mike Waring]

To you, that's all. So you had to drive me clear to Jersey? The air there is better for my sinuses. Look, Sergeant, I Tell you he killed Frenchie Devlin.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Where's his motive?

[Mike Waring]

I can give you a dozen. Number one, with Frenchie out of the way, he could take over the club. Not to mention Frenchie's widow. You're crazy. How do you think you'd look without those teeth?

[Sergeant Corbett]

I hate to spoil your fun, Mike, but there's one thing wrong with your theory. Frenchy was gunned at 4:30.

[Mike Waring]

So?

[Sergeant Corbett]

So at 4:15, Nick was down here renewing his license to carry a gun.

[Mike Waring]

Are you sure that positive.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Now you tell me how one man can be in two places at the same time.

[Mike Waring]

Now wait a minute, Sergeant. I think I see how it could be managed.

[Frenchy Devlin]

How?

[Mike Waring]

I'll need a guinea pig to demonstrate. Luckily, I know where I can find one. Want to come along and watch? Come. Hello, Steve. Hi. You remember Sergeant Corbett.

[Steve Richards]

Yeah, sure.

[Sergeant Corbett]

How do you feel?

[Steve Richards]

Well, much better, thanks.

[Mike Waring]

Well, we got it all locked up good. No, it's not as good as all that. We're gonna need your help, Steve.

[Steve Richards]

I'll do anything I can.

[Mike Waring]

All right, here's the problem. I last under Nick Zale as Frenchy's murderer, but unfortunately he has a cast iron alibi.

[Steve Richards]

How's that?

[Mike Waring]

It seems Frenchie was killed at half past four. And at 4:15 Nick was down at police headquarters. Now it would take him at least 40 minutes to get from there to Frenchie's apartment. So? Well, you see the problem that creates. Sure.

[Steve Richards]

How can one man be in two places at the same time?

[Sergeant Corbett]

That's just what I asked.

[Mike Waring]

Well, I finally thought of the answer. What? He can't be. So that means we have to look to someone else.

[Steve Richards]

What do you mean?

[Mike Waring]

I'm afraid you're elected, Steve. What? You killed Frenchie.

[Steve Richards]

So you got it all figured out, huh?

[Mike Waring]

I think so. The only reason I passed you by originally was because it seemed too obvious.

[Steve Richards]

Well, I figured on that.

[Mike Waring]

Well, you were wrong. Eventually we had to come back to you.

[Steve Richards]

Yeah, but there's one thing you didn't figure out.

[Sergeant Corbett]

What's it, Mike?

[Mike Waring]

It's got a gun. There's nothing to worry about, Sergeant. I noticed it the first time I was here, so I removed the shell.

[Steve Richards]

You no good?

[Mike Waring]

I couldn't afford to have you hurt yourself.

[Steve Richards]

Dirty double cross.

[Sergeant Corbett]

All right, let's have it, Steve. Thanks. Well, so this is the little gimmick. What the devil.

[Steve Richards]

It's loaded. But you said you emptied it.

[Mike Waring]

Well, I guess I can't be trusted. But you can't be trusted either. So that makes us even. Steven. Take care of him. Sergeant, he's all yours. Got enough there? Would you like a refill?

[Sergeant Corbett]

No, no, no, this is fine, Mike.

[Mike Waring]

Well, I'm glad you're happy, Corbett. After all, this party is on you.

[Sergeant Corbett]

On me?

[Mike Waring]

Well, didn't I make you look like a big man?

[Sergeant Corbett]

You made me look like a first class mo. I said right at the beginning that Steve Richards was our boy.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, yes, but you never could have made it stick without my help.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I like that. I got a good mind.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, don't flatter yourself. You've got no mind at all. If I could talk you out of Steve as a suspect, what do you think a lawyer would have done? When Steve pulled that gun, that was the one piece of evidence you needed. But you never would have gotten it.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Without my badgering him. Yeah, what gets me is his motive. After all, he only met Frenchie twice.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah, but that second meeting was a beaut. So he decided to get even.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, I don't know.

[Mike Waring]

What's the matter, Sergeant? Haven't you ever been so sore at someone you felt you could kill him right then and there? Steve never learned to stifle his impulse.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Come to think of it, you're right.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah.

[Sergeant Corbett]

There's one character I run across occasionally. And every time I do, I get a mad desire to throttle him.

[Mike Waring]

Who's that?

[Sergeant Corbett]

You. I better leave before I give way to the impulse.

[Mike Waring]

Hey, waiter.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Give him the check. Good night, Mike.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

The Case of the Killer's Key. The Case of the Killer's Key. That's the title of next week's Adventure of the Falcon, when Mike Waring learns that if love laughs at locksmiths, it may be because death holds the key. 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 starred as the Falcon, with Chuck Webster as Sergeant Corbett. This program came from New York. Fred Collins speaking.