The Falcon: The Case of the Neighbors Nightmare 02/04/1951

Summary

Podcast Title: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: The Falcon: The Case of the Neighbors Nightmare
Release Date: February 20, 2025
Original Air Date: February 4, 1951
Host: Choice Classic Radio

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Introduction

Welcome to a detailed summary of "The Falcon: The Case of the Neighbors Nightmare", an enthralling episode from the Golden Age of Radio brought to you by Choice Classic Radio Detectives. This episode showcases the legendary detective, The Falcon, as he navigates a complex web of deceit, betrayal, and murder in one of New York's most expensive hotels.

Main Characters

• Gordon Daly (The Falcon): A sharp and sophisticated detective determined to uncover the truth.
• Ed Hurley: A concerned friend seeking Daly's assistance regarding a suspicious investment.
• Muriel: A newly wealthy woman plagued by nightmares and entangled in financial misdeeds.
• Harold Barnes: An investor whose sudden wealth and subsequent murder raise suspicions.
• Peter Somerset: Another investor associated with Barnes, later implicated in the murder.
• Sergeant Corbett: A diligent police sergeant involved in unraveling the case.

Plot Summary

The Initial Inquiry ([05:31] - [09:34])

The story unfolds with Ed Hurley approaching Gordon Daly, known as The Falcon, to investigate Harold Barnes. Hurley invested $15,000 with Barnes based on a profitable venture that Muriel, a mutual acquaintance, had also invested in. However, Barnes has become evasive, delaying Hurley’s returns.

Muriel, grappling with newfound wealth of $25,000 from a successful oil refining investment, seeks solace in Daly, confessing her fears and nightmares about potential theft. At [04:23], Muriel admits, "I have nightmares that somebody's trying to break in and rob me." This personal turmoil adds another layer to the financial mystery at hand.

Unraveling the Mystery ([10:01] - [15:48])

As Daly delves deeper, he learns that Barnes was murdered. Muriel recounts witnessing a confrontation at Barnes's apartment, where Peter Somerset was seen fleeing the scene after a shot was fired. At [12:32], she reveals, "Mr. Barnes, he was dead." This revelation turns the investigation into a potential homicide case.

Daly contacts Peters Somerset, suspecting foul play. Their conversation at [07:34] hints at Barnes's desperation, "Mr. Daly is the kind of person who's going to need his money back." However, Somerset evades providing concrete information, leaving Daly to piece together the puzzle.

Confrontations and Revelations ([20:04] - [24:58])

The plot thickens when Sergeant Corbett approaches Daly, challenging discrepancies in the reported time of Barnes's murder. At [18:05], Corbett confesses, "Barnes wasn't killed at 6:15. He was killed at 5:30." This critical timing aligns with Daly's earlier alibi, thereby casting doubt on his innocence.

Daly accuses Muriel of orchestrating the frame-up to protect Somerset. At [20:20], he states, "She'd just trim you out of your savings and then frame you for murder." The tension escalates as Muriel attempts to defend herself, leading to a dramatic showdown.

Climax and Resolution ([24:30] - [29:02])

In the climax, Daly confronts Muriel in her apartment. As emotions flare, Muriel tries to manipulate Daly, but Sergeant Corbett intervenes just in time. At [25:12], Corbett declares, "Waring gives me a lot of double talk. Now he admits he was covering for Daly."

The truth emerges: Muriel had been using Daly to cover her tracks in a financial swindle, leading to Barnes’s murder. With Corbett's assistance, Daly exposes Muriel’s deceit, ensuring justice is served.

Notable Quotes

• Muriel to Daly ([03:32]): "I saw you on the elevator and coming in here a few times. You look well, understanding."
• Muriel's Confession ([12:11]): "Mr. Barnes, he was dead."
• Daly's Accusation ([20:20]): "She'd just trim you out of your savings and then frame you for murder."
• Sergeant Corbett's Realization ([25:12]): "Waring gives me a lot of double talk. Now he admits he was covering for Daly."

Conclusion

"The Falcon: The Case of the Neighbors Nightmare" masterfully weaves a tale of financial betrayal and murder, showcasing The Falcon's detective prowess. Through intricate dialogue and suspenseful interactions, the episode highlights themes of trust, deception, and justice. The culmination of events not only resolves the mystery but also reinforces the timeless appeal of classic detective stories in old-time radio.

For fans of mystery and classic radio dramas, this episode is a quintessential example of storytelling excellence from the Golden Age of Radio.

Transcript

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[Michael Waring]

Welcome to Choice Classic Radio where we.

[Muriel]

Bring to you the greatest old time radio shows.

[Michael Waring]

Like us on Facebook. Subscribe to us on YouTube and thank you for [e-mail].

[Gordon Daly]

Hello? Yes, this is the Falcon speaking. Oh, Betty. Now, thanks for calling, but I'll have.

[Michael Waring]

To skip this one.

[Gordon Daly]

Angel? Yeah, I'm involved with a little character who has an idea. He's a lady killer and I have to see to it that he doesn't take it too literally.

[Michael Waring]

This is Ed Hurley. He friends inviting you on behalf of the Kraft Foods company to listen to the adventures of the Falcon starring Les Demon. 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 neighbor's nightmare. In just a moment or two, we'll join the Falcon for his latest adventure. But first I'd like to tell you ladies how you can make delicious snacks and sandwiches, salad toppings and appetizers more quickly and easily than ever. Just make them with those wonderfully handy Kraft cheese spreads. There are nine grand varieties, you know, some sharp tasting and others delightfully mild. But all are delicious and of course, of the finest quality because they are made by Kraft. And for years Kraft has been famous for foods of the finest quality. Try some of these handy helpers tomorrow. Take home several of the nine famous crafts Kraft cheese spreads. It's late Sunday night and at one of New York's most expensive hotels, short, baldish Gordon Daly is asleep in his room when there's a loud knocking on his door. Daley sits up, fumbles for the bedside light, then staggers sleepily to the door while putting on his bathroom. At the door he stops and puts his head close to it.

[Gordon Daly]

Who?

[Ed Hurley]

Who is it?

[Muriel]

I have the room across the hall. I must talk to you.

[Michael Waring]

It's late.

[Muriel]

Yes, I know, but. Please open the door. I'm afraid.

[Ed Hurley]

Afraid? Why?

[Muriel]

Open the door.

[Michael Waring]

I'll explain.

[Ed Hurley]

Just a minute. Now. What is.

[Muriel]

Let me in, please.

[Ed Hurley]

But I. It's late and I suppose I mean somebody this time of night.

[Muriel]

Just for a minute, till I collect myself.

[Ed Hurley]

Well, all right.

[Muriel]

Thank you. I know this seems strange, and when I explain, you're going to think I'm silly.

[Ed Hurley]

Am I?

[Muriel]

I'm afraid so. You see, I. I have a nightmare. Oh, I was afraid to be alone. Isn't that childish?

[Ed Hurley]

Well, I guess so.

[Muriel]

I get so frightened. I just can't stand it. Look, do you have a cigarette?

[Ed Hurley]

Oh, yes. Just a minute. There you are.

[Muriel]

Thank you. Look how my hand's still shaking.

[Ed Hurley]

Here, I'll light it for you.

[Muriel]

I saw you on the elevator and coming in here a few times. You look well, understanding. And when I get these awful dreams.

[Ed Hurley]

I know how you feel. I've had nightmares.

[Muriel]

It's really my own fault. I should have put the money in the bank instead of splurging.

[Ed Hurley]

What?

[Muriel]

You see, I've never had much all my life. And then all of a sudden, to have $25,000. It's like coming into a fortune.

[Ed Hurley]

Did somebody leave you money?

[Muriel]

No. I made a lucky investment. You see, I'd saved up a few thousand dollars over a period of years. And then I heard of this opportunity. A new process for refining oil. So I put in all my savings.

[Ed Hurley]

And you took out $25,000?

[Muriel]

Yes, in just a few months. I probably should have left it in. I might have been really rich. But 25,000 seemed like rich to me. I bought furs and jewelry, and I'm living here.

[Ed Hurley]

25,000 won't last long at that rate.

[Muriel]

Well, I may reinvest some, but I want to have my fun first.

[Ed Hurley]

Yes, I see how you feel.

[Muriel]

The only trouble is, I never had anything before. I was always so careful. That's how I saved up the few thousand I had. So now in my room full of expensive things, I keep getting these nightmares that somebody's trying to break in and rob me.

[Ed Hurley]

Yeah, but. Now, about this investment, though.

[Muriel]

I'm frightened when I have those dreams. I suppose it's because I. Oh, listen to me rattling on about myself. I'm sorry. I didn't mean to bore you.

[Ed Hurley]

Oh, you didn't bore me either.

[Muriel]

You're kind. I knew you would be.

[Ed Hurley]

This investment. A new process, you said, for refining oil.

[Muriel]

Well, let's not talk about that now. Maybe tomorrow, if you'd care to see me.

[Ed Hurley]

May I. May I take you to lunch?

[Muriel]

Oh, I'd be delighted. You know, maybe this was a lucky accident. I don't know many people in New York.

[Ed Hurley]

Well, now you know me, I. I think maybe we'll turn out to be good friends.

[Muriel]

I know we shall.

[Ed Hurley]

How do you do, sir? Am I in the right place?

[Gordon Daly]

Well, look, pal, I'm a detective, not a mind reader.

[Ed Hurley]

Oh, and I am in the right place? This is the address I was given, but I expected an office building, not an apartment. You are Michael Waring, the gentleman they call the Falcon.

[Gordon Daly]

Well, you're two thirds, right?

[Ed Hurley]

What?

[Gordon Daly]

I'm Michael Waring. I'm called the Falcon. But about the gentleman. Well, there are various opinions about that.

[Ed Hurley]

Oh. Well, may I come in? I'd like to talk to you.

[Gordon Daly]

Yeah, sure.

[Ed Hurley]

Thank you.

[Gordon Daly]

Well, Mr. Daly.

[Ed Hurley]

Gordon Daly.

[Gordon Daly]

Daley Gordon Daly. What can I do for you?

[Ed Hurley]

I want you to investigate someone for me, Mr. Barnes. Harold Barnes.

[Gordon Daly]

Mm. And what's this Barnes?

[Michael Waring]

Harold Barnes.

[Gordon Daly]

Done.

[Ed Hurley]

Well, I invested $15,000 with him a month ago and something's come up. I need my money. I've asked him for it, but he keeps putting me off.

[Gordon Daly]

And you think he's pulling a fasting?

[Ed Hurley]

I'm not sure what he's pulling. That's what I want you to find out.

[Gordon Daly]

How come you invested with him in the first place?

[Ed Hurley]

Well, you see, Muriel, friend of mine, put her money in Barnes Co. And she made a fabulous profit.

[Gordon Daly]

Fabulous is a nice word for it. Just how good a friend is this Muriel?

[Ed Hurley]

Oh, very good.

[Gordon Daly]

For how long?

[Ed Hurley]

Oh, about a month.

[Gordon Daly]

Mm. She crooks the finger, you rush in and get stung.

[Ed Hurley]

Oh, no, no, no, no. Don't get the wrong idea about Muriel. She's a nice girl.

[Gordon Daly]

Oh, no doubt.

[Ed Hurley]

She wouldn't lie to me.

[Gordon Daly]

No, of course not. She claimed dealing with bonds is profitable for her. Well, I'm sure it is. A nice fat profit for every sucker she lands. Now, you're wrong on that case. Do you still want to hire me?

[Ed Hurley]

Yes, but you'll find out how wrong you are. All right, you're thinking of this as a swindle. But it's not Barnes meant to pay off. I'm sure of that. He did pay off to Muriel, but now something's happened and he's stalling. Apparently, he's hard pressed for cash.

[Gordon Daly]

Well, if Mr. Barnes is so hard pressed for cash, I think I'll offer him some and see what happens.

[Harold Barnes]

You're interested in investing with us?

[Gordon Daly]

That's right, Mr. Barnes.

[Harold Barnes]

And you say Mr. Daly recommended us? Strange. To be perfectly frank, Mr. Daly hasn't been too happy with us lately.

[Gordon Daly]

Oh, he's not afraid of getting his money. It's just a matter of time. He happens to need it now. But me, I'm in no hurry. So if you'd care to outline the.

[Harold Barnes]

Proposition I'd be glad to. Mr. Warren, did you say it is?

[Gordon Daly]

That's right.

[Harold Barnes]

Are you sure you didn't mean wearing?

[Gordon Daly]

What gives you that idea?

[Harold Barnes]

Don't be so modest, Mr. Waring. The Falcon is a famous man and.

[Gordon Daly]

The cops and robbers set. Which are you?

[Harold Barnes]

Well, I can't pretend to be a cop. As for the other. That's what you're trying to find out, isn't it?

[Gordon Daly]

Yeah, and this conversation seems to give me my answer.

[Harold Barnes]

But not your proof.

[Gordon Daly]

Well, I imagine any fair to middling accountant could take care of that.

[Harold Barnes]

Why not get one and see?

[Gordon Daly]

That's a good idea. Well, so long, Barnes. Sorry I bothered you.

[Harold Barnes]

Oh, that's all right. Wary. Oh, but before you go, take this. Oh, come on in, Muriel. I've almost finished packing. Say, where are your bags?

[Muriel]

I'm packed yet. Why do you want me to drop by here?

[Harold Barnes]

Because I wanted to know what happened. I thought you were going to keep Daly in line.

[Muriel]

I said I'd keep him happy. He's happy?

[Harold Barnes]

Yeah. So happy he hires a detective.

[Muriel]

Well, he's a cautious type.

[Harold Barnes]

Well, this is the end of the line with wearing on us. We've got to move.

[Muriel]

They were stretching it pretty thin anyway. One of the suckers was bound to get restless. We're just lucky we have time to pull up stakes.

[Harold Barnes]

But we'd better hurry. That gun butt's not going to keep wearing asleep all day.

[Muriel]

You shouldn't have slugged him. You'd bluff.

[Harold Barnes]

What's to bluff? He could smell the setup.

[Muriel]

You didn't have to tip that you knew him. You could have played along. That would have given us more time.

[Harold Barnes]

We have enough time if we don't waste it gabbing.

[Muriel]

All right, where's the cash?

[Harold Barnes]

In this suitcase.

[Muriel]

How much does it come to?

[Harold Barnes]

Somewhere around 80 grand. That's 40 a piece.

[Michael Waring]

Not bad.

[Muriel]

I was counting on more.

[Harold Barnes]

Well, if Daly hadn't got itchy.

[Muriel]

I'm not interested in ifs. I want cash.

[Harold Barnes]

You'll settle for what's here, not 40.

[Muriel]

I have plans. They call for big money.

[Harold Barnes]

Don't get the idea I'm cutting you in for more than half.

[Muriel]

I'd never make that mistake, Barnes, knowing you. So I'll have to do my own cutting. I'll settle for 80.

[Ed Hurley]

What?

[Muriel]

I said I'm taking the full 80. You're out, chum. If you don't believe me, maybe this gun will convince you.

[Harold Barnes]

Hey, now, kid, wait a minute.

[Muriel]

I don't have a minute, so get out of my way. I'm taking the Bag.

[Harold Barnes]

That's what you think.

[Muriel]

You fool. Why did you make me do that?

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[Muriel]

Hello, Gordon.

[Ed Hurley]

Oh, Muriel, there you are. I've been waiting since 6.

[Muriel]

I know. I'm sorry I'm so late. Something awful happened.

[Ed Hurley]

Yes, I can see you. You look like you've had another nightmare.

[Muriel]

This one's real. I've got to talk to you, but I don't want anybody to hear.

[Ed Hurley]

There's a table in the corner.

[Muriel]

All right.

[Harold Barnes]

Ah, I. I see mademoiselle has arrived. You wish to be seated now, mister?

[Ed Hurley]

Yes, please. That table over there, if we may.

[Muriel]

Oh, certainly. You said you got here at 6, Gordon?

[Ed Hurley]

Yes, that's when our reservation was for.

[Muriel]

And you gave your name when you arrived, didn't you?

[Ed Hurley]

Yes.

[Muriel]

Good.

[Harold Barnes]

This table, monsieur?

[Ed Hurley]

That's right. Thank you. And before we order dinner, I think we'd better have a double brandy for the young lady and a glass of sherry for me.

[Harold Barnes]

Yes, Monsieur Wright.

[Muriel]

Thanks, Gordon.

[Ed Hurley]

Well, now, what's wrong?

[Muriel]

It's terrible. You've got to help me.

[Michael Waring]

I'll try.

[Muriel]

I knew you would, darling. You're wonderful. Well, now, Gordon, Mr. Barnes phoned me. He said he wanted to talk to me at his apartment.

[Ed Hurley]

His apartment?

[Muriel]

Yes. He said it was very important. So I went. But when I got to the door, I heard arguing inside. And then a shot.

[Michael Waring]

You.

[Ed Hurley]

You mean a shot?

[Muriel]

Yes. Then the door opened, so I hid on the stairs. And I saw Peter Somerset come out and go to the elevator.

[Ed Hurley]

Who's Peter Somerset?

[Muriel]

He's someone who invested with Mr. Barnes, too.

[Ed Hurley]

I see. Well, then, Did. Did you go in?

[Muriel]

Yes. It was awful. Mr. Barnes, he was dead.

[Gordon Daly]

Oh, dear.

[Ed Hurley]

That means my.

[Gordon Daly]

My money.

[Muriel]

You never know. Maybe Somerset took it.

[Ed Hurley]

Excuse me.

[Harold Barnes]

Brandy for mademoiselle. Sherry for monsieur?

[Ed Hurley]

Oh, yes.

[Muriel]

Thank you.

[Ed Hurley]

Not at all.

[Muriel]

Well, Gordon.

[Ed Hurley]

Well, we'll have to tell the police about Somerset.

[Muriel]

That's just. That's just it. I can't. I don't dare. They might think I killed Mr. Barnes.

[Ed Hurley]

Why should they?

[Muriel]

Well, they jumped to conclusions. I was there at the time of the murder. That's what's so awful? I was thinking. Gordon, I know it's a lot to ask, but I was thinking.

[Ed Hurley]

Yes?

[Muriel]

Well, the shooting took place at 6:15. You were here in this restaurant. You got here at 6. The waiter saw you. You have a perfect alibi.

[Ed Hurley]

Well, yes, but. What's that?

[Muriel]

Well, suppose you say that you were at Mr. Barnes tonight at around 5:30. And as you were leaving you saw Mr. Somerset go in.

[Ed Hurley]

Oh, I couldn't do.

[Muriel]

Well, Mr. Somerset was there. I saw him. And you're in the clear as far as the murder goes because you were here when it happened.

[Ed Hurley]

I know, but a thing like that for me. I don't know what to say. Look, Mr. Waring, he's a detective. If I tell him what you saw, maybe.

[Muriel]

No, no, no, no. You mustn't tell anyone that I was there. Especially a detective. No. If you won't help me.

[Ed Hurley]

Oh, you know I'll help you. But if there's only some other way.

[Muriel]

Isn't any other way. The only way you can help me is to say you were there yourself.

[Ed Hurley]

All right, Muriel. I was there at 5:30.

[Michael Waring]

This is Ed Herlihy again, friends. Well, it looks like Muriel is a girl with ideas. And here's an idea for all you folks who really like good salads. An idea for a wonderfully different salad dressing you can make easily. Just empty a glass full of Rocca cheese spread, one of the nine delicious cheese spreads made by Kraft into a little bowl. Then use that empty Roca glass to measure out an equal amount of Miracle Whip salad dressing. Blend the two together and the result is a delightfully different salad dressing. Creamy smooth Roca cheese spread has a zesty blue cheese flavor that's unusually delicious. Really tantalizing. And for wonderful snacks and sandwiches try Old English brand and Smokel and Kraft Cheese and bacon spread too. But of course you'll want to try all nine delicious Kraft cheese. Look for them in colorful tulip design drinking glasses you can use again and again. And remember, the Kraft cheese spreads are so delicious that they've become America's favorites. So enjoy the best. Tomorrow get several of the nine famous Kraft cheese spreads. They're America's favorites. Now back to the Adventures of the Falcon. A half hour has passed since Gordon Daly agreed to save Muriel's neck by placing himself at Barnes apartment at 5:30. Now he's phoning the Falcon. Hello?

[Ed Hurley]

Hello, Mr. Waring, this is Gordon Daly.

[Michael Waring]

Oh yes, Daly.

[Gordon Daly]

I'm glad you called. I've been trying to reach you. Well, I saw Barnes for you. Looks bad for your money. Plays dirty pool. And I've got the head to prove it.

[Ed Hurley]

What?

[Gordon Daly]

He slugged me and skipped. I called in his description to the police. They're looking for him.

[Ed Hurley]

They found him. I just heard on the radio. He's been murdered.

[Gordon Daly]

What?

[Ed Hurley]

Yes, that's why I'm calling. I think I know who did it.

[Gordon Daly]

Who?

[Ed Hurley]

Mr. Somerset. Peter Somerset.

[Gordon Daly]

How do you know that?

[Ed Hurley]

I saw him. You see, I went up to Mr. Barnes apartment this afternoon.

[Gordon Daly]

Went up there? Why?

[Ed Hurley]

Well, he phoned and asked me to.

[Gordon Daly]

What did he say when you got there?

[Ed Hurley]

Nothing much.

[Gordon Daly]

He asked you to go over so he could tell you nothing much, huh?

[Ed Hurley]

Look, why are you asking me all these questions? Aren't you working for me?

[Gordon Daly]

Well, I thought so. But you seem to be taking matters in your own hands.

[Ed Hurley]

But Barnes asked me. That's the truth. And as long as you're so skeptical. Before you get the idea I had anything to do with the murder, I want you to know I was in a public restaurant in front of witnesses at 6:15 when the murder was committed.

[Gordon Daly]

I see. How come you know when the murder was committed?

[Ed Hurley]

Oh, that was on the radio too.

[Gordon Daly]

Well, if you weren't at Barnes As a 6:15, how come you're so sure Somerset is the murderer?

[Ed Hurley]

Well, I'm not sure.

[Gordon Daly]

Only he was there at the time of the murder.

[Ed Hurley]

I don't know. He just went in as I was coming out.

[Gordon Daly]

When was that? 5:30, 45 minutes before the murder.

[Ed Hurley]

Well, it's just a lead, but I thought you ought to know. The important thing now is my money. If Mr. Somerset is the murderer, maybe he. Maybe he.

[Gordon Daly]

Yeah, maybe he. Where can I find him?

[Ed Hurley]

He's in the phone book.

[Gordon Daly]

All right, I'll check on him. So long. DAILY.

[Sergeant Corbett]

PAX A Wait a minute.

[Muriel]

Waring.

[Gordon Daly]

Huh? Oh, Sergeant Corbett.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I'll save you a fare. You want to go someplace? I've got a squad car.

[Gordon Daly]

Well, you're too good to me, Corbett.

[Michael Waring]

Don't mention it.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I want to talk to you anyway.

[Gordon Daly]

All right, fine. What do we discuss? Existentialism or dialectics?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Let's discuss Harold Barnes.

[Gordon Daly]

Isn't he a pretty dead subject?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Very dead. How did you know?

[Gordon Daly]

It's on the radio. Huh?

[Sergeant Corbett]

How did it get on the radio?

[Gordon Daly]

What's the matter? Haven't you given out a story on it?

[Sergeant Corbett]

No.

[Gordon Daly]

There's a leak someplace. Whole things on the air. Time of death and all.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Time of death?

[Gordon Daly]

Yep. 6:15.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Waring, you'd better have that radio of yours checked. Could stand a new tube or something.

[Michael Waring]

Why?

[Sergeant Corbett]

I've got news for you. Barnes wasn't killed at 6:15.

[Gordon Daly]

No?

[Sergeant Corbett]

No. He was killed at 5:30.

[Gordon Daly]

What's that?

[Sergeant Corbett]

That's right, waring. Five. Waring. You gonna talk?

[Gordon Daly]

I've been talking ever since we got to headquarters.

[Sergeant Corbett]

But you haven't said anything. What do you know about the murder?

[Gordon Daly]

Nothing.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You admit you had a fight with Barnes.

[Gordon Daly]

Some fight. He slugged me when I wasn't looking.

[Sergeant Corbett]

This is not gonna make you love him.

[Gordon Daly]

All right, so I killed him.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You want to sign a confession?

[Gordon Daly]

You don't have enough rubber hose for that, Corbett.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I don't say you pulled the trigger, Waring. But you know something? You're covering for somebody.

[Gordon Daly]

Now, that's a brilliant piece of deduction.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Who is it?

[Michael Waring]

No comment.

[Sergeant Corbett]

What's with the phony radio yarn you handed me?

[Michael Waring]

That's what I want to know.

[Gordon Daly]

If you'd stop wasting my time, maybe I could find out.

[Sergeant Corbett]

And if you'd cooperate, you'd die of shock.

[Gordon Daly]

I couldn't do it to you, Corbitt. I simply couldn't.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I ought to book you, Waring, on suspicion, on general principles. But we've just cleaned the jail, so get out of here.

[Gordon Daly]

You say the sweetest things.

[Sergeant Corbett]

If this case isn't cracked in 24 hours, I may change my mind. Now, beat.

[Ed Hurley]

Oh, Mr. Waring. Come in.

[Gordon Daly]

Yeah? Daley Daly. Where'd you get the idea Barnes was killed at 6:15? Well, I told you the radio wasn't on the radio.

[Ed Hurley]

But I heard it.

[Gordon Daly]

No, it's no use, Daly. That's too easily checked.

[Ed Hurley]

Well, I have nothing else to say.

[Gordon Daly]

You know, chum, when somebody has the facts of a murder before the story is out, it usually means he had something to do with it.

[Ed Hurley]

I have an alibi.

[Gordon Daly]

So this isn't the usual situation. Especially since those facts of yours happen to be incorrect.

[Ed Hurley]

What do you mean?

[Gordon Daly]

I mean that the murder didn't take place at 6:15.

[Ed Hurley]

It didn't?

[Gordon Daly]

No, it didn't. It happened at 5:30. What?

[Michael Waring]

Yes.

[Gordon Daly]

Just the time you admitted being at Barnes.

[Ed Hurley]

No, no.

[Gordon Daly]

There's some mistake and you made it.

[Ed Hurley]

I didn't kill him.

[Gordon Daly]

Well, I don't think you did. You wouldn't have stuck your neck out so far if you had.

[Ed Hurley]

I'm glad you realized that.

[Gordon Daly]

So that leaves just one explanation.

[Ed Hurley]

Does it?

[Gordon Daly]

You mentioned a friend when I first talked to you.

[Michael Waring]

Muriel?

[Ed Hurley]

Yes.

[Gordon Daly]

Nice girl. You said she wouldn't lie to you. Not much. She'd just trim you out of your savings and then frame you for murder.

[Ed Hurley]

Well, I. I don't know.

[Gordon Daly]

It was Muriel, wasn't it? Come on, Daly. Wasn't it?

[Ed Hurley]

Stay right where you are, Waring. Don't you move.

[Gordon Daly]

Oh, dear. How chivalrous. Can you get a gun? Because I accuse your girl.

[Ed Hurley]

I trusted her, Waring. I believed her. I. I loved her.

[Gordon Daly]

As long as you're putting that all in the past tense, why the gun?

[Ed Hurley]

You don't think I'm going to let her get away with this, do you?

[Gordon Daly]

You don't need the gun to get even. All we need is your testimony. If we can pin the killing on her.

[Ed Hurley]

If? If? Well, I'm not going to wait. And I'm not interested in just giving testimony. For once in my life, I'm going to do something.

[Gordon Daly]

Now wait a minute.

[Ed Hurley]

No, you stay right there. This is between me and her.

[Michael Waring]

We're gonna have it out.

[Ed Hurley]

And don't you try to follow me. If you do, I'll kill you. I'm not joking, Waring. I'll kill you.

[Michael Waring]

This is Ed Hurley here again. Friends. Well, I'd hate to be in Mike's shoes right now. But then I have a much more pleasant job than Mike's. Yes, I really enjoy telling you about the nine delicious Kraft Cheese spreads. Because I know how good tasting all nine of these fine cheese spreads are. Each one is extra good and there's a variety to please every. There are mild tasting ones like Kraft Pineapple Cheese Spread. And there are sharp tasting kinds too, such as Roca Smokel and Kraft Cheese and Bacon Spread. They're all good to eat and actually good for you too. Because they're wholesome dairy foods made from only the finest purest ingredients for easy sandwiches and snacks. Your folks can help themselves to keep your refrigerator stocked with several of the nine delicious Kraft Cheese spreads. Now back to the adventures of the falcon. 20 minutes have passed since Gordon Daly took matters and a gun in his own hands. Now he confronts Muriel in her apartment.

[Ed Hurley]

You cheat. You lying little cheat.

[Muriel]

Gordon, listen to me.

[Ed Hurley]

I did listen to you. I let you make a fool of me.

[Muriel]

You don't understand.

[Ed Hurley]

I don't understand? At last. You were just using me. That's all. Just using me.

[Muriel]

No, Gordon, if you'd only.

[Ed Hurley]

Just using me. I thought. I hoped. No. Don't you move.

[Muriel]

Please, Gordon.

[Ed Hurley]

Now you're going to pay.

[Muriel]

Don't kill me. Somebody will hear the shot. You won't get away. You'll be caught.

[Ed Hurley]

Yes, I'll be caught. Well, I don't care. I'll give myself up.

[Podbean Announcer]

Wait.

[Muriel]

There's Money allowed us.

[Ed Hurley]

I'm not interested in money anymore.

[Muriel]

Please, Gordon, put down the gun, please.

[Ed Hurley]

Yes, yes, Muriel, I will put down the gun. There.

[Muriel]

Thank you.

[Ed Hurley]

I won't need it for what I'm going to do.

[Muriel]

No, Stay away.

[Ed Hurley]

I don't need a gun.

[Michael Waring]

Don't you?

[Muriel]

All right, Davy, that's enough.

[Ed Hurley]

Waring, where did you come from?

[Sergeant Corbett]

The window. Now let her go.

[Muriel]

Thanks stranger, for giving me a chance to get the gun. Now put up your hands.

[Ed Hurley]

What?

[Gordon Daly]

That's gratitude for you. I saved your life.

[Muriel]

Oh, thanks. All right, Gordon, get up.

[Ed Hurley]

Yes, Waring. How did you get here? I made sure you didn't follow.

[Gordon Daly]

You're not too good at the rough stuff, Daley. You shouldn't try it. You left me in your room. Muriel's address is on your phone pad.

[Ed Hurley]

Of course.

[Gordon Daly]

When I got here I knew you wouldn't let me in. That's why I tried the window instead of the door.

[Muriel]

Well, if you're all through congratulating yourself, maybe you'll tell me what this is all about.

[Gordon Daly]

Yeah, sure. It's all about your pretty neck. As if you didn't know Daly wanted to ring it. I wanted to save it. So that you can face the murder rap you're trying to pin on him.

[Muriel]

Murder rap?

[Gordon Daly]

Don't tell me it's news to you. Your frame isn't going to work, angel. Daly was supposed to put his neck in the noose by admitting he was at Barnes at 5:30.

[Muriel]

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

[Gordon Daly]

Well, we won't argue that anyway. So far he's only said it to me. He didn't tell the police. And if I deny he told me, where's your proof against him?

[Muriel]

Maybe there isn't any. But aren't you overlooking one thing?

[Gordon Daly]

What's that?

[Muriel]

Where's your evidence against me? Since you seem to be accusing me.

[Gordon Daly]

You tried to frame Daily.

[Muriel]

Can you prove that?

[Gordon Daly]

I can try.

[Muriel]

You'll get your chance. We'll see whose story holds up. And don't move either.

[Ed Hurley]

What? What are you doing?

[Muriel]

Calling the police. Any object? Admitted being at the murder scene at 5:30, Sergeant. That's why he tried to kill me.

[Ed Hurley]

No, that's not it.

[Gordon Daly]

Haley.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You and Waring both admit you tried to kill the girl.

[Ed Hurley]

Well, I. I lost my head.

[Gordon Daly]

Sure.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Just like you lost it when you killed Barnes.

[Gordon Daly]

But Corbett, can't you see?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yeah, Waring, I see. You're trying to build up Daily as a nice, innocent little sucker. So what's a nice, innocent little sucker doing with A gun?

[Ed Hurley]

I told you, Sergeant. Muriel, she gave it to me. She told me Peter Somerset might try to harm me because I accused him and I needed to protect myself.

[Muriel]

Sergeant, you don't believe.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You bet I don't believe. Waring gives me a lot of double talk. Now he admits he was covering for Daly. He admits Daly pulled a gun on him and the gun turns out to be the murder weapon.

[Ed Hurley]

Murder weapon?

[Sergeant Corbett]

That's what ballistics says. So with a gun, with a second murder attempt, with Waring's double talk. No, no. There's only one answer this time.

[Gordon Daly]

Can't you see it's a frame?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Did you ever see a murderer who wasn't being framed? Waring.

[Gordon Daly]

But the girl told him what to do.

[Sergeant Corbett]

He didn't tell him to pull a gun on you. She didn't tell him to try to strangle her. She didn't tell you to hold back on me. Her story makes sense. Yours and Daly's still doesn't.

[Gordon Daly]

All right, Corbett, you win.

[Sergeant Corbett]

But do you know how much I win, Waring?

[Gordon Daly]

What?

[Sergeant Corbett]

I could hold you too, for obstructing justice. And don't think I wouldn't love it.

[Gordon Daly]

Oh, come now, Corbett. I know that behind that stony facade there beats a heart of granite.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Keep up the bright dialogue, chum. But you've just got one out. Otherwise I throw the book at you.

[Gordon Daly]

And what's my out?

[Sergeant Corbett]

You sign a statement saying Daly admitted to you he was at Barnes at 5:30.

[Gordon Daly]

All right, cop?

[Michael Waring]

No, no.

[Gordon Daly]

Wearing the Truth Daily.

[Ed Hurley]

But it'll clinch the case. I. I don't mind about myself, but this means Muriel will go free. She'll get away with everything.

[Gordon Daly]

What can I do? Go ahead, Corbett. Have the statement typed out. I'll sign it.

[Muriel]

Oh, it's you.

[Gordon Daly]

Well, that's a friendly greeting. Miriam. Still haven't forgiven me for saving your life?

[Muriel]

I still haven't forgiven you for trying to pin a murder on me.

[Gordon Daly]

Oh, well, we all make mistakes. I signed the statement tying it to Daily, didn't I?

[Muriel]

When you couldn't help yourself. What do you want?

[Gordon Daly]

In?

[Muriel]

Sorry, I'm busy.

[Gordon Daly]

Doing what?

[Muriel]

What's it to you?

[Gordon Daly]

I thought I might help.

[Muriel]

No, thanks. Goodbye, Mr. Waring.

[Gordon Daly]

Not so fast. I happen to be interested in you, Muriel.

[Muriel]

Thanks again. But it's still goodbye.

[Gordon Daly]

In fact, I'm so interested, I've been following you ever since they threw Daly in the can.

[Muriel]

What's that?

[Gordon Daly]

You see, I knew this was more than a murder. Barnes was working a neat swindle. Must have collected quite a bundle. But the police have searched his place and Daly's no dough.

[Muriel]

What am I supposed to do?

[Gordon Daly]

Well, I haven't given up on you, angel. That's why I've been hanging around. A little while ago, you received a parcel post package. What was in it?

[Muriel]

You tell me.

[Gordon Daly]

Okay, I'll make a stab at it. You mailed the swindle money to yourself. Let Uncle Sam hold it for you while the heat was on.

[Muriel]

Nice guessing. Where does it get you?

[Gordon Daly]

I'd like to see the package.

[Muriel]

You'd like to take a walk.

[Gordon Daly]

All right. I'll be back with Sergeant Corbett.

[Muriel]

No, you don't.

[Ed Hurley]

No.

[Harold Barnes]

Guns ain't let go.

[Ed Hurley]

Not yet.

[Gordon Daly]

Let me have that. You're trying to pull. This just about clinches things. Muriel.

[Muriel]

You can't prove anything.

[Gordon Daly]

I proved enough to get sergeant Corbett up here with a search warrant. That ought to wrap things up. Let's go phone him, shall we?

[Ed Hurley]

For a while, Waring, I thought you'd let me down for a while.

[Gordon Daly]

I had to, Daley.

[Ed Hurley]

You worked with Sergeant Corbett before. Wasn't there any way you could convince him?

[Gordon Daly]

Sure, by getting proof. That's what I did.

[Ed Hurley]

And in the meantime, I had to sit in jail.

[Gordon Daly]

I wasn't worth it to save you 15 grand.

[Michael Waring]

Not to mention your neck.

[Ed Hurley]

It was worth it to get even with Muriel.

[Michael Waring]

You sure?

[Gordon Daly]

I want for revenge.

[Ed Hurley]

I think of how much I love that woman. I. Well, I still do. I guess that's why I hate her so much.

[Gordon Daly]

Now that makes sense.

[Ed Hurley]

It does? Well, at least I've learned my lesson. From now on, I'm through with women. They. They're nothing but trouble. That that's all they are wearing.

[Michael Waring]

Trouble.

[Gordon Daly]

Well, gotta be going.

[Ed Hurley]

Oh, yes. Where?

[Gordon Daly]

Oh, just out looking for trouble. Good night, Daly.

[Michael Waring]

For the best in taste in the margarine you buy, get parquet Margarine made by Kraft. Yes, parquet is the margarine millions prefer to any other because it tastes so good. And it tastes so good because it's all always fresh. In states where the law permits get yellow parquet in its wonderful new flavor saver aluminum foil wrap elsewhere. Get parquet in the regular package or handy color quick bag in any package. Parquet is the margarine that tastes so good because it's always fresh. That's P A R K A Y parkay Margarine made by Kraft. Get a palm tomorrow. The Case of the Mighty Muscle. The Case of the Mighty Muscle. That's the title of next week's Adventure of the Falcon. When Mike Waring learns that some people don't need a moving van to move in. A little Colt.45 can carry a lot more weight. 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 Gene Wang and directed by Richard Lewis. Music was by Arlo Les Fehman was starred as the Falcon, with Ken lynch as Sergeant Corbett. Be sure to hear the great Gilded Sleep next Wednesday evening over most of these stations. In next Wednesday's broadcast, Gildy comes face to face with that 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 Gilda Sleeve next Wednesday evening over most of these stations. Check your newspaper for time of broadcast. This is End Hurley. He's speaking for the Kraft Foods Company. Jimmy Durante, Fred Allen and Judy Holiday visit the big show today on NBC.