The Falcon: The Case of the Plenty Twenty 07/25/1951

Summary

Summary of "The Falcon: The Case of the Plenty Twenty"

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Podcast Information

• Title: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Choice Classic Radio
• Episode: The Falcon: The Case of the Plenty Twenty
• Release Date: July 31, 2025

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Introduction

"The Falcon: The Case of the Plenty Twenty" is a thrilling installment in the classic detective series featured on Choice Classic Radio. Starring Les Damon as the suave and astute private detective, The Falcon, this episode delves into a complex case involving counterfeiting, betrayal, and murder within the art world of 1950s New York.

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Plot Overview

The episode opens with Mike Waring, an alias used by The Falcon, and his associate Pete Kearns celebrating their successful creation of counterfeit $20 bills. Their illicit operation involves sophisticated steel engraving plates that allow them to produce high-quality fake currency. However, tensions arise as Pete Kearns starts questioning the sustainability and ethics of their scheme.

Key Moments:

• Engraving Success (02:49 - 03:18): The duo perfects their counterfeit bills, leading to internal conflict about selling the plates versus continuing the operation.
• Introduction of Earnshaw (03:18 - 04:01): Mike contacts Earnshaw to negotiate the sale of the engraving plates, revealing the first cracks in their partnership.

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Character Interactions and Discussions

1. Mike Waring and Pete Kearns' Tension

Pete Kearns expresses skepticism about the longevity of their counterfeit operation, questioning the practicality of selling the plates:

Pete Kearns (03:13): "You're gonna sell the plates?"

Mike Waring (03:15): "What else?"

Their dialogue highlights the strain between them as Pete advocates for cashing out, while Mike believes in the long-term viability of their scheme.

2. Sergeant Corbett's Involvement

Sergeant Corbett, a persistent NYPD officer, becomes suspicious of Louis Baretti's activities and seeks the help of The Falcon to clear his wife, Marion Baretti, who is under suspicion for her husband's murder:

Sergeant Corbett (07:06): "I'd like to see Mr. Waring, please."

Mike Waring (07:13): "So do I. Which Waring would it be?"

The Falcon adopts his detective persona to investigate further, leading to the unraveling of the counterfeit operation.

3. Uncovering the Counterfeiting Scheme

As Mike Waring delves deeper, he discovers that the money previously thought to be counterfeit is, in fact, genuine:

Mike Waring (21:16): "Well, I've got news for you, Waring. It's not counterfeit."

This revelation pivots the investigation, indicating that the real issue lies beyond mere counterfeiting.

4. Confrontation and Revelation

In a dramatic confrontation, The Falcon exposes Pete Kearns' role in the counterfeiting and murder of Louis Baretti:

Mike Waring (27:14): "But the bills in the case were good. The ones you paid me were counterfeit."

Pete Kearns (24:40): "Sure, I. I had the plates. I wasn't taking them both up to Ritter's at once."

This exchange culminates in the identification of the true perpetrator, Ed Earnshaw, solidifying the case against him.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Trust and Deception:

  Mike Waring (08:49): "Just goes to show, man shouldn't keep secrets from his wife. It's dangerous."

• Revelation of Genuine Currency:

  Mike Waring (21:16): "Well, I've got news for you, Waring. It's not counterfeit."

• Final Confrontation:

  Mike Waring (27:56): "Earnshaw, you did have dealings with Baretti before. You killed him."

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Insights and Themes

1. Ethics of Crime: The episode explores the moral dilemmas faced by criminals, particularly the tension between immediate gains and long-term consequences.
2. Trust and Betrayal: The fragile trust between Mike and Pete highlights how quickly alliances can crumble under pressure and greed.
3. Law Enforcement vs. Criminals: Sergeant Corbett represents the relentless pursuit of justice, demonstrating the cat-and-mouse dynamic between detectives and criminals.
4. The Facade of Legitimacy: The success of the counterfeit operation underscores how criminals often present a respectable front to mask their illicit activities.

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Conclusion

"The Falcon: The Case of the Plenty Twenty" masterfully intertwines suspense, character development, and intricate plotting to deliver a compelling detective story. Through sharp dialogue and unexpected twists, listeners are kept engaged as The Falcon unravels the deceptive layers of the case, ultimately bringing justice to the surface. This episode stands as a testament to the enduring allure of old-time radio detective tales, combining classic elements with timeless themes.

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Final Thoughts

For fans of classic detective narratives, "The Falcon: The Case of the Plenty Twenty" offers a captivating listen that not only entertains but also invites reflection on the complexities of human nature and the pursuit of truth. Whether you're a longtime aficionado or a newcomer to old-time radio, this episode promises a memorable journey into the golden age of radio detective stories.

Transcript

[Mike Waring]

Your message amplified.

[Pete Kearns]

Ready to share your message with the world? Start your podcast journey with Podbean.

[Mike Waring]

Podbean. Podbean. Podbean Podbean the AI powered all in one podcast platform.

[Marion Baretti]

Thousands of businesses and enterprises trust Podbean to launch their podcasts.

[Mike Waring]

Launch your podcast on podbean today.

[Marion Baretti]

My school uses Podbean.

[Pete Kearns]

My church too.

[Mike Waring]

I love it. I really do.

[Marion Baretti]

Welcome to Choice Classic Radio where we.

[Mike Waring]

Bring to you the greatest old time radio shows like us on Facebook. Subscribe to us on YouTube and thank you for [e-mail] the Craft Foods company brings you the Adventures of the Falcon, starring Les Damon. Hello? Yes, this is the Falcon speaking. Alola, thanks for the call, but tonight is no good Good angel. Now I have to look into the case of a fellow who was so good at his work he didn't think anyone could beat him. But somebody came along and beat the life out of him. This is Ed Hurley. He friends inviting you on behalf of the Kraft Foods Company to listen to the Adventures of the Falcon. 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 Palkin solves the case of the Plenty twenties.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Miracle Whip has a flavor so pleasing. Miracle Whip tastes so lively, so teasing. Miracle Whip, only one of its kind. Miracle Whip best salad dressing you'll find.

[Mike Waring]

Miracle Whip tastes really good. Not too sharp, not too mild, but just exactly right. And Miracle Whip tastes different, too different from any other salad dressing. Try it yourself. See? Why, it's America's favorite salad dressing. The one and only Miracle Whip. It's Wednesday night in New York, and in an old loft, two men bend over a press, eagerly intent on the engraving that is emerging from it. Now there's a long, silent examination of the engraving. Light is brought closer. Magnifying glasses are brought into use. Still no words, but now hands begin to shake with excitement. Finally, the taller man with a little mustache, Louis Baretti, steps back and smiles at his companion. Well, Kearns, it's perfect.

[Pete Kearns]

US Mint couldn't do better itself.

[Mike Waring]

Anyway, they'll get by, and that's what counts.

[Pete Kearns]

Oh, what gets me Baretti, With a talent like that, you've been wasting time on little forgeries.

[Mike Waring]

Got to wake up to a thing like this.

[Pete Kearns]

Well, there's calls for celebration. Let's go get a jug.

[Mike Waring]

Don't get ahead of yourself, Kearns. We've got the plates. Now we've got to unload, huh? Earnshaw might give us a good Price?

[Pete Kearns]

You're gonna sell the plates?

[Mike Waring]

What else?

[Pete Kearns]

Well, that's like killing a golden goose.

[Mike Waring]

Wait a minute. Hello? Is that Earnshaw there? This is Earnshaw. Good. This is Louis Baretti speaking. I have something that might interest you. Would you care to see some samples? I'm not easily interested. Baretti, you will be in. What I have. Well, doesn't cost a look. I'll be here all night. Good. I'll be over. So long.

[Pete Kearns]

Yeah, but why sell the plates, Peretti? This way? We want cash, all we gotta do is print it. What more can anybody ask?

[Mike Waring]

How long do you think those two sheets of paper are gonna last us? No, Kearns, there's a lot more to this steel than just the plates.

[Pete Kearns]

We can get more paper in big quantities.

[Mike Waring]

It ain't easy. Besides, no matter how good those plates are, the only perfect ones are Uncle Sam's. Every time we passed a bill, we'd be sticking to do this right. You have to have an organization. Have to know where to pass them and when.

[Pete Kearns]

Well, maybe you're right.

[Mike Waring]

Sure, I'm right. Hey, who you.

[Pete Kearns]

Who you calling now?

[Mike Waring]

Rena. Want to see if he's interested.

[Pete Kearns]

But you just called Earnshaw.

[Mike Waring]

That's right.

[Pete Kearns]

Well, if Earnshaw wants to buy him.

[Mike Waring]

You have to meet my price. The best way to get the price. To get these jokers bidding against each other.

[Pete Kearns]

Yeah, and you can get caught in the middle.

[Mike Waring]

Don't worry, Kearns. As long as I have the plates, I call the shots.

[Pete Kearns]

You may call them chum, but the big question is, who fires them?

[Mike Waring]

Yes? Mr. Ritter, this is Louis Baretti. I was just wondering if you might be interested. Good morning, honey. What time is it?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Almost noon. And you're still in bed? Louis Baretti, big shot.

[Mike Waring]

I got home late.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You're telling me. You might have phoned.

[Mike Waring]

I was busy.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Would have taken all of five minutes.

[Mike Waring]

Don't start riding me. Wait till I tell you the news. I'm waiting. How would you like a new car?

[Sergeant Corbett]

So it was a binge. You're still dreaming.

[Mike Waring]

Not kidding. I hit it big. Wet in the chips.

[Sergeant Corbett]

What happened?

[Mike Waring]

Landed a big contract with an advertising company.

[Sergeant Corbett]

What company?

[Mike Waring]

What company? A company, that's all. A company.

[Pete Kearns]

Advertising. Soap.

[Sergeant Corbett]

What soap?

[Mike Waring]

Fine. I tell you, you can have a new car right away. You turn on the third degree?

[Sergeant Corbett]

What do you mean, third degree? I'm your wife. You tell me. You've landed a big contact. Naturally, I'm interrupting.

[Mike Waring]

Always trying to butt in.

[Sergeant Corbett]

All I said.

[Mike Waring]

I know what you said, and I know what you're Thinking. You haven't gone hungry, have you?

[Sergeant Corbett]

No.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, you've got a roof over your head, haven't you? If you don't like the way I do things, you know what you can do about it. Now get out of here. I want to get dressed. Oh, just a minute, lady. Where do you think you're going?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Inside, in my husband's studio. Why? What's it to you?

[Mike Waring]

Your husband, huh? Would you be Mrs. LOUIS BARRETTI?

[Sergeant Corbett]

What if I am? What's going on around here anyway? Why the crowd? Who are you?

[Mike Waring]

I'm Sergeant Corbett of the New York Police Department.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I knew it.

[Mike Waring]

Knew what?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Louis was mixed up in something.

[Mike Waring]

Well, he's mixed up in something all right. What do you know about it?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Nothing. It was just a hunch. What'd he do?

[Mike Waring]

As far as we know, he didn't do anything.

[Sergeant Corbett]

What did you said?

[Mike Waring]

I said he's mixed up in something. You'd better prepare yourself for a shock.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I'm prepared. If he didn't do anything, that's shock enough. Now, what is it?

[Mike Waring]

It's just Mrs. Baretti. He's dead. Hello.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I'd like to see Mr. Waring, please.

[Mike Waring]

Well, take a good look.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Oh, I Hope you're the Mr. Waring I want.

[Mike Waring]

So do I. Which Waring would it be?

[Sergeant Corbett]

The private detective called the Falcon.

[Mike Waring]

I'm your bird. Come in.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Thank you. I had a hard time finding you. Don't you have an office?

[Mike Waring]

In my business, an office means a filing cabinet full of bourbons.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Oh, I've heard.

[Mike Waring]

Well, I prefer martinis, so I operate out of my apartment. Now, who are you and what can I do for you?

[Sergeant Corbett]

I'm Mrs. Louis Baretti. Yesterday my husband was murdered. The police questioned me a good part of the afternoon. They released me, but I'm still under suspicion.

[Mike Waring]

And you want me to remove that suspicion?

[Sergeant Corbett]

That's right.

[Mike Waring]

Well, can you give me any better suspects?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Not positively.

[Mike Waring]

Tentatively, then?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, if you could find out anything about a Mr. Ritter or a Mr.

[Mike Waring]

Earnshaw, who are they?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, that's what I don't know. But from the way Louis behaved yesterday morning, I suspected that something was going on. And then Mr. Ritter phoned the house. I couldn't make out much of the conversation, except that Louis said that Mr. Ritter still wasn't talking loud enough and he couldn't hear him. And he said it was too late anyway because Earnshaw already spoke English.

[Mike Waring]

Well, that's a great conversation. And you don't know who either of these men are?

[Sergeant Corbett]

No, he never mentioned them before.

[Mike Waring]

Is there anyone who might know them?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, the only one I can think of is my husband's assistant, Pete Kearns. But the police asked him about them and he claimed he didn't know them.

[Mike Waring]

Well, maybe I'll have better luck. By the way, Mrs. Baretti, what did your husband and Kearns do?

[Sergeant Corbett]

They had a little art studio. They made silk screen reproductions and etchings, things like that. But I always had an idea they were doing something else, too. Only I never could find out what it was.

[Mike Waring]

Just goes to show, man shouldn't keep secrets from his wife. It's dangerous.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Is it?

[Mike Waring]

Well, sure. Look what happened to Louis Baretti.

[Pete Kearns]

Yes.

[Mike Waring]

You Pete Kearns?

[Pete Kearns]

That's right. What do you want?

[Mike Waring]

Well, I didn't come to look at your etchings. I thought perhaps you could tell me something about Ritter or Earnshaw.

[Pete Kearns]

The police thought the same. They were also wrong.

[Mike Waring]

Well, do you mind if I come in and look over the studio?

[Pete Kearns]

You have a search warrant?

[Mike Waring]

No, I mind. Look, it must have occurred to you, Kearns, that you're a suspect in this case. Maybe I can help you.

[Pete Kearns]

What makes you think so?

[Mike Waring]

Well, Mrs. Baretti is paying good money for me to help her. You can latch on for a free ride if you like. Provided, of course, you're not the murderer. That's what I'm looking for.

[Pete Kearns]

When I need help, I'll pay my own way.

[Mike Waring]

Such extravagance. Who'd think a struggling young artist could afford it?

[Pete Kearns]

I won't be able to unless I get to work. Police have kept me out of here until just a little while ago. And whoever killed Baretti made a shambles of the place. So run along. I've got work to do.

[Mike Waring]

Sure, all right, Kearns. But just tell me one thing, will you?

[Pete Kearns]

What's that?

[Mike Waring]

What makes you so sure you don't need help?

[Pete Kearns]

I'm not so sure. I'm also not so sure you'd be help.

[Mike Waring]

Well, if you change your mind about me, you can reach me at Ed's Luncheonette over on Lexington Avenue. 53rd. Just ask for Mike Waring.

[Pete Kearns]

I'll make a note of it. Now, so long.

[Mike Waring]

Hello? Hello, Ritter?

[Pete Kearns]

This is Kearns.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah, Kearns, what is it?

[Pete Kearns]

Somebody else has been here looking for you. Sooner or later they're going to find the Ritter they're looking for. So if you and I are going to get together, we better do it quick.

[Mike Waring]

Waring, I see why you always hang out here at Ed's Luncheonette. They sure turn out a mean salad. Sure, Corbett. But about the case oh, I'm sorry, Waring. I've given you every blessed fact I've got on a case so far. Well, there ought to be something we could latch onto, Corbett. Some kind of a lead. Oh, fellas. Hey, did you enjoy your lunches? Oh, hi, Ed. Oh, Waring's minds are wrapped up with a case. He didn't even notice. Didn't notice? Oh, never mind, Ed. Corbett's just joking. He's the funniest fellow I know. Gee, thanks. I certainly did notice that salad. Those were the most delicious vegetables, Mike. Yes, that's what I mean, Ed. Yes, vegetables. They were perfect. And that salad dressing, that was Miracle Whip. Mike. You know, Miracle Whip makes salad taste better than ever. Why, sure. Yes, you see, Miracle Whip has a swell flavor. It's kind of sharp, yet it's not too sharp, either. I think it tastes just exactly right, Mike. That's why. I know. That's why it's America's favorite salad dressing. As a matter of fact, more Miracle Whip is sold than the next 20 leading brands of salad dressing combined. Right? Right, Mike. And don't forget, Miracle Whip is really a different kind of salad dressing, too. That's why they call it the one and only, isn't it? And it's smooth, creamy, textured. Mike, Mike, Mike, you took the words right out of my mouth. How do you know all that? Well, good little detectives always keep their ears open. Ed, you've been telling me about Miracle Whip for a long time now. Well, what do you know? Well, not much else, except that maybe you better give us our check. Now, we got to be getting along, right? Oh, here you are, Mike. All right, Corpus, what's the joke? Look at him. You ever see a fancier fumbling act? Never mind, Corbett. You win. I'll take care. No worry. No, it's just. All right, forget it. I've got it. Here, Ed, take both checks out of this 20. All right, Mike. Hey. Huh? Wait a minute. Is this a gag? What do you mean? It's a beautiful job. I'll admit that. It probably passed most places. But I've been in this game too long to let one of these get by me. What in blazes are you talking about? This 20, it's counterfeit. What? Well, ask the sergeant if you don't believe me. Here's Harge. Take a look. Oh, he's right wary. Where did you get this? From Mrs. Baretti. Well, what do you know? The falcon lets himself get paid off in funny money. Oh. All right, Corbett, you can stop grinning. It's not that funny? Wait til the boys at headquarters here about this worry. Look, pal, you can just.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Oh, hello.

[Mike Waring]

Well, my charming client. All right, Mrs. Baretti, what was the idea?

[Sergeant Corbett]

What?

[Mike Waring]

Paying me in counterfeit.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Counterfeit?

[Mike Waring]

As if you didn't know.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I didn't.

[Mike Waring]

Your husband printed it, didn't he?

[Sergeant Corbett]

I don't know. I told you I suspected something, but I didn't know what.

[Mike Waring]

Where did you get the bills you gave me?

[Sergeant Corbett]

From Louis.

[Mike Waring]

You have any more lying around?

[Sergeant Corbett]

I.

[Mike Waring]

Look, Mrs. Baretti, if you don't answer, we can get a search warrant. Holding count of it is a federal offense. Don't yell at the lady, Waring. You'll have to forgive him, Mrs. Baretti. He's kind of touchy just now.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Come in. I don't want any trouble. I'll show you where the money is. All right, down this hallway. Louie came home late a couple of nights ago. In the morning he talked about having a lot of money. He said it had something to do with a contract. But when I asked him about it, he lost his temper. I was afraid something was wrong, but I didn't know what. And then he was killed. And then I found this briefcase. Just a minute. Here we are in this closet under all these things. But believe me, I didn't know it was counterfeit. There it is.

[Mike Waring]

Hey, a briefcase full of the stuff. Look, you hired me to help you. Why didn't you show me this?

[Sergeant Corbett]

I didn't think it was necessary.

[Mike Waring]

You were afraid it'd be taken away from you.

[Sergeant Corbett]

It was my husband's money. I didn't see why I shouldn't keep it.

[Mike Waring]

But you told me you suspected your husband was involved in something. You hinted strongly that that something was illegal. So you knew there was something wrong with the money.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I didn't know it was counterfeit. I suspected. There's a big difference.

[Mike Waring]

All right, all right. You can fight that out later. Right now we've got to get this stuff into the hands of the treasury boys. Mrs. Verretti, where's your telephone? Yeah, we're here. Weren't you, Sergeant? Oh, good. Bring him in. Right. Well, Waring, now that we know we're dealing with counterfeiting, we're beginning to get somewhere. This guy, Ed Earnshaw has been involved in a couple of counterfeiting deals already. Right in there, Earnshaw. Okay, Mr. Earnshaw. Come in. Thank you. Sit down. Do you know Mike Waring, Vulcan? I've heard of him. It's a pleasure. Likewise. And we're both liars. I understand you boys found a batch of Phony scratch and you want to tie me to it. No, I'll leave that to the Treasury Department. I'm Homicide. All I'm interested in is a little matter of murder. Well, that's a nice subject, but it's a little out of my line. Yeah. You know Louis Barretti? Brady. Was he a big fat guy? He was a little skinny guy. Red hair? No. Looks like I didn't know him, doesn't it? Well, he knew you. Well, lots of people know Ed Earnshaw. He had dealings with you. Must have been a different ear. Are there many Earnshaws in your racket? Racket? Sergeant, you know better than that. I'm a solid citizen. Earnshaw. What did you do with the plates you swiped from Baretti? I didn't swipe them. They were. Yes, they were. What? Nothing. I don't know anything about the plates. You started to say something about them. Obviously you know there were plates. So you did know Baretti. I'm not talking. You already have. You can't prove anything by it. At least now we know we're on the right track. Beretti had plates for turning our counter for 20s. Apparently somebody killed him and swiped the plates. You knew about the plates? It all fits. You've got no proof. We can get. Just a second, Marty. Hello, Sergeant Corbett speaking. I see. Okay. All right. So long. Well, Waring, there's our other lead ridden. Yeah, There's a Frank ritter on East 12th who did time 10 years ago in Kansas for counterfeiting. Well, Corbett, what do you say if I run over and drop in on this Ritter while you continue our chat with Earnshaw? Yeah, all right, Waring. But how come you're still so hopped up on the case after the way your client treated you? That's all right. Barretti had insurance. May take a little time, but I'll get mine. You just said a mouthful. Wearing. What's that? Insure. You're going to get yours all right. Only it won't take time. Yes? Frank Ritter. That's right. Like to talk to you. What about? I suppose I could put you in line for a stack of beautiful bills at the rate of two to one, huh? You think I'm crazy, mister? No. Even saying I might go for a deal like that. What makes you think I'd even discuss it with a total stranger? Well, that's just the point. No reason why we should be strangers. I was hoping you'd invite me in and we could get acquainted. Sorry, I'm busy. Won't take long. No, thanks. Now beat it. You sure are nervous. Why do you keep looking at the elevator? I told you, I'm busy. Now get out of here. All right, all right. But there's the elevator. Is that who you've been expecting? Well, what do you know? It's Baretti's assistant, Petey Kearns. Hello, Kearns. Hey, wait a minute. Hey. Got any way to act, Kearns? You don't seem happy to see me out.

[Pete Kearns]

Let go.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah, sure, in a minute. What have we got here?

[Pete Kearns]

Give me that.

[Mike Waring]

You mind if I open it?

[Pete Kearns]

I'll kill you.

[Mike Waring]

I'll bet you would if I gave you the chance. My, my. How do you like that? He's delivering some artwork. A steel engraving wouldn't just happen to be of a twenty dollar bill, would it? All right, fella, I'll take that plate. Oh, yeah. Shoe. Ritter. I thought this was my dance with Kearns. Why must you cut in? The gun cuts me in. Oh, yeah, I suppose it does. So hand over the plate and hand it over easy. All right. You are right. Now let go of Kearns. Yeah, sure. And now, both of you. Hey, Kearns, come back here. Come back here. AR you'll nothing. You know, Ridder, it was impolite occurrence to run out on you, but I can't complain, seeing as how I wind up with the gun and the plate. Now, let's go down and see Sergeant Corbett, huh? Hello, Corbett. Brought you presents. In fact, a couple of presents. Oh, hello, Larry. Is that Ritter? This is Ritter. And Ritter, meet Sergeant Corbett. Seems he don't want to meet me. Well, he's the bashful type. Until I see my lawyer, I am okay. Now, Corbett, look what else I have. Hey, one of the plates. Yep. It'll make a beautiful print of the back of a twenty dollar bill. And Ritter had it. Well, then, according to your theory. No, Corbett, Ritter didn't have it. I got it from Petey Kearns. Kearns? Well, then he's our boy. Looks alike. Where is he? Get away. I swapped him for Ritter. Looks like a bad trade, but I didn't have any choice. Well, I'll put out a call to have them picked up. Then I'd better call the treasury boys and tell them this plate's here. You better. And as for you, Ritter. Oh, no. Homicide. Sergeant Corbusweaking. What's that?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Podbean.

[Mike Waring]

Your message amplified.

[Pete Kearns]

Ready to share your message with the world? Start your podcast journey with Podbean.

[Mike Waring]

Podbean, the AI powered all in one podcast platform.

[Marion Baretti]

Thousands of businesses and enterprises trust Podbean to launch their podcasts.

[Mike Waring]

Use Podbean to record your podcast. Use PodBean AI to optimize your podcast. Use PodBean AI to turn your blog into a podcast.

[Pete Kearns]

Use Podbean to distribute your podcast everywhere.

[Mike Waring]

Launch your podcast on podbean today.

[Marion Baretti]

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[Mike Waring]

Okay. So long with the treasury boys. You didn't tell them about the plate wearing. You know that briefcase we found at Baretti's with the counterfeits? Yeah. Well, I've got news for you, Waring. It's not counterfeit. What? They've just gone through the whole case, bill by bill. 30,000 bucks. And every one is genuine 100% United States currency. Well, I don't have to tell you folks that there's only one genuine kind of United States currency. But just in case you didn't know, I'd like to tell you that there's also only one Miracle Whip. That's why we call it the one and only Miracle Whip.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Miracle Whip has a flavor so pleasing. Miracle Whip tastes so lively, so teasing. Miracle Whip only one of its kind. Miracle Whip best salad dressing you'll find.

[Mike Waring]

Miracle Whip is the only one of its kind because it's a different type of salad dressing. Made from a secret craft recipe, Miracle Whip combines the best qualities of old fashioned boiled dressing and fine mayonnaise. So it's truly distinctive and delicious with a flavor millions of folks call just exactly right. Try it, won't you? One taste will tell you why it's America's favorite salad dressing. The one and only Miracle Whip. Now, back to the Adventures of the Falcon. A couple of hours have passed since the Falcon and Sergeant Corbett discovered that the money they found at Verretti's, which they thought wasn't worth the paper it was printed on, turned out to be worth an even 30 grand. Now Mike is in his apartment when the door buzzers sound. Oh, Kearns.

[Pete Kearns]

Get back inside, Waring. I'm coming into.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah, so I see. As long as you've got the gun, I might as well be hospitable.

[Pete Kearns]

Yeah.

[Mike Waring]

Now what am I indebted for this visit.

[Pete Kearns]

Waring.

[Mike Waring]

Okay. What's the matter? You hurt?

[Pete Kearns]

It's all right. Stay back.

[Mike Waring]

Well, I'm back. But you're.

[Pete Kearns]

I'm all right. Proud car caught up with me. I ran, they fired. It's just a scratch. It's not serious.

[Mike Waring]

And the color of your face is plenty serious. You look as weak as a mix drinking a clip joint. Shut up.

[Pete Kearns]

I'm all right, I tell you.

[Mike Waring]

All right. It's your funeral. If you think I'm kidding.

[Pete Kearns]

Keep it up, Waring. You'll get what I got. Triple. I'm not carrying a gun for exercise.

[Mike Waring]

All right. All right, Kearns. What do you want?

[Pete Kearns]

Let's sit down.

[Mike Waring]

Oh.

[Pete Kearns]

All right.

[Mike Waring]

Now? Yeah.

[Pete Kearns]

You said before you wanted to help me.

[Mike Waring]

It was supposed to be a two way deal. You tossed in your hand.

[Pete Kearns]

Still a two way deal. I can help you. I know who killed Baretti.

[Mike Waring]

What do you want with me?

[Pete Kearns]

Get proof. Wrap it up so I get off the spot.

[Mike Waring]

All right. Where do I begin?

[Pete Kearns]

By believing I didn't do the killing?

[Mike Waring]

You had the plates. You probably still have one.

[Pete Kearns]

Yeah, I still have it. I wasn't taking them both up to Ritter's at once. Wanted to see. See if he was on the level first.

[Mike Waring]

You know you can do a long stretch just for what you're admitting.

[Pete Kearns]

I know it. Wearing him. I'm stuck with that. Got the goods on me. Nothing I can do but chair gives me the willies. I'm not a killer. You've got to prove it.

[Mike Waring]

Well, then who is?

[Pete Kearns]

Sure, I. I had the plates. Why not work with Baretti?

[Mike Waring]

Yeah, I see your point.

[Pete Kearns]

Good.

[Mike Waring]

Just tell me one thing.

[Pete Kearns]

What's that?

[Mike Waring]

How much was Rudder going to pay you for the plates?

[Pete Kearns]

25 grand. Why?

[Mike Waring]

Just want to see if it all ties in. It does.

[Pete Kearns]

What do you mean?

[Mike Waring]

You wanted proof. We've got proof. We don't need any more.

[Pete Kearns]

What proof?

[Mike Waring]

Your story.

[Pete Kearns]

They won't believe it.

[Mike Waring]

Maybe not all by itself. And I don't suppose Earnshaw or Riddle will talk. But if you stick to your story and Mrs. Baretti sticks to hers and I stick to mine, that should wrap it up.

[Pete Kearns]

You think?

[Mike Waring]

I know. Come on, let's go down see Sergeant Corbett. No.

[Pete Kearns]

No police. Not yet.

[Mike Waring]

Kearns. Do we just agree?

[Pete Kearns]

Won't discuss it. As long as I have the gun, we do things my way.

[Mike Waring]

I suppose we do. What's your way?

[Pete Kearns]

You call Marion.

[Mike Waring]

Who?

[Pete Kearns]

Mrs. Baretti. I want to see if Louie told her anything.

[Mike Waring]

I know what she knows.

[Pete Kearns]

Will you do What I tell you?

[Mike Waring]

Sure, pal, sure.

[Pete Kearns]

You call Marion, you ask as K.

[Mike Waring]

All right, all right, Ken. As long as you had the gun, we do things your way. Now that you don't have it, I'm taking you to Sergeant Corbus. First, I'm taking you to a doctor. Well, wearing. They're all here except Kearns. The doctor will bring him in as soon as he finishes patching him up. I don't think we need to wait, Corbett. I'm pretty sure I know Kearns angle. So let's see what we can get out of these others. All right, Quiet. Quiet, please. Quiet. You want to talk? Talk when we ask questions. All right. You, Earnshaw, you still deny you had dealings with Verretti? Check. It's a bum check, Earnshaw. When Kearns gets here, he'll swear Barretti offered to sell you the plates. And this Kearns is a character who cannot tell a lie. All right, Earnshaw, you don't admit anything. But you, Ritter. It's not so easy. Waring. Cut. Kern's calling on you with a plate. I can't help who calls on me. That doesn't say I invited him. You were expecting him. You kept looking at the elevator. Maybe I was just wishing you'd get honored, Waring. And you were ready to take the plate with a gun. As soon as I got it from Kearns, you guys were fighting. I wanted to see what it was all about. Oh, sure. You didn't know about the plate. Not till then. Kearns says he offered. You offered him 25 grand for the plates. You boys sure put a lot of stock in this Kearns, don't you? He worked for Baretti. He was in a position to know the facts. That doesn't say he wouldn't lie about them. Well, it's not only Kearns. There's Mrs. Baretti. She heard her husband mention you on Earnshaw. Right, Mrs. Barretti?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yes.

[Mike Waring]

So you see, Ritter, it all fits. There's only one thing that doesn't fit. What's that, Mrs. Baretti? You said you got those bills you paid me with from your husband's briefcase.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I did.

[Mike Waring]

But the bills in the case were good. The ones you paid me were counterfeit.

[Sergeant Corbett]

The bills in the briefcase were in little packets. But there were a few loose ones lying on top. I took those off. They're the ones I gave you.

[Mike Waring]

Could be those could have been the samples your husband showed Earnshaw. Look, Waring, I told you. And I'm telling you, Earnshaw, you did have dealings with Beretti before. You killed him. What? I killed him? Yes, and I'm glad you admit it. Who's admitted? Well, it doesn't matter if you do or not. The facts speak for themselves, Earnshaw. And what they say about you is murder. You know, Mrs. Baretti, I learned your name is Marion.

[Sergeant Corbett]

My, you are the detective, aren't you?

[Mike Waring]

Yes. I like Marion better than Mrs. Verretti.

[Sergeant Corbett]

All right, Mike.

[Mike Waring]

Thanks, Marion.

[Sergeant Corbett]

And now that we're so chummy, how about letting me in on the trade secret?

[Mike Waring]

Which secret?

[Sergeant Corbett]

How you solved the case.

[Mike Waring]

Oh. Well, that money you showed us. Did it?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Huh?

[Mike Waring]

Was real.

[Sergeant Corbett]

What did that prove?

[Mike Waring]

Proved your husband had sold the plates. That money could only have been payment for them.

[Sergeant Corbett]

But Kearns had the plates. If Louis had sold them.

[Mike Waring]

Kearns worked with your husband. He was in a position to swipe the plates, and that's exactly what he did. He swiped the real ones and substituted some old trial plates.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I see.

[Mike Waring]

Your husband made the sale on the basis of the samples he'd made from the real plates. But the ones he delivered were Kern's substitutes.

[Pete Kearns]

Oh.

[Sergeant Corbett]

And when the person who bought the plates tried to run off the more bills, he found he'd been cheated.

[Mike Waring]

That's right. So you went back to your husband, demanded the real plates or his money back. But your husband, thinking he delivered the real ones, refused. There was a fight about it, and your husband was killed.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I see. So all you had to know was who bought the plates and you'd know the murderer. But how did you know it was Earnshaw?

[Mike Waring]

Remember the conversation you overheard? Your husband said Ritter still wasn't talking loud enough. But it didn't matter because Earnshaw had already spoken English. Yes, well, that had to mean that Ritter still wasn't offering enough. But it didn't matter because Earnshaw had already met your husband's price. Oh, of course. Yes. Oh, before you get out, I want to tell you something.

[Sergeant Corbett]

What's that?

[Mike Waring]

Well, it's obvious you didn't get along with your husband, but you'll still probably want a little time to get over what's happened. So when the time's up, perhaps you and I can get together.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Oh, then I'm forgiven for paying you in counterfeit.

[Mike Waring]

I wasn't sorry about that. I was sore at court.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You were sorry yourself.

[Mike Waring]

Well, maybe. Anyway, if you get to feeling lonely sometime, let me know.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Oh, no, Mike, I couldn't do that.

[Mike Waring]

Why not?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, I have a friend who knows you. That's how I heard about you. And she says every time she calls you, you say thanks for the call. But you can't make it tonight, angel.

[Mike Waring]

You think I'd do a thing like that to you?

[Sergeant Corbett]

No, of course not, Mike. You won't get the chance.

[Mike Waring]

Oh.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Because if there's any calling to be done, you call me. Good night, Mike.

[Mike Waring]

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[Marion Baretti]

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