The Falcon: The Case of the Shopkeepers Gun 04/15/1951

Summary

Podcast Summary: "The Falcon: The Case of the Shopkeeper's Gun"

Podcast Title: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode Title: The Falcon: The Case of the Shopkeeper's Gun
Host/Author: Choice Classic Radio
Release Date: April 24, 2025

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Overview

In this enthralling episode of Choice Classic Radio Detectives, listeners are transported back to the Golden Age of Radio with "The Falcon: The Case of the Shopkeeper's Gun." This installment features the intrepid detective Falcon, portrayed by Les Damon, as he unravels a complex murder mystery involving deceit, mistaken identity, and cunning manipulation. Set against the bustling backdrop of 1950s New York City, the episode masterfully blends suspense, sharp dialogue, and classic detective tropes to deliver a captivating narrative.

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Key Characters

• The Falcon (Mike Waring): A savvy and resourceful private detective determined to uncover the truth behind the murder.
• Ed Hurley: Represents the Kraft Foods company, serving as a narrator and occasional commentator.
• George Conrad: The shopkeeper accused of murder, whose innocence Falcon seeks to prove.
• Sergeant Corbett: A police sergeant skeptical of Conrad's innocence but open to Falcon's insights.
• Frank Moody: A shadowy figure linked to the murder, whose true intentions become a focal point of the investigation.
• Rocky: An associate of Moody, entangled in the schemes against Conrad and Falcon.

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Plot Summary

Initial Conflict and Investigation

The episode opens with a tense confrontation between George Conrad and Ed Taylor in a midtown hotel room. Conrad accuses Taylor of owing him money, leading to a heated exchange where Conrad brandishes a gun (00:01–03:03). The situation escalates when Sergeant Corbett arrives, questioning Conrad about his involvement in Taylor's murder. Conrad insists on his innocence, claiming the gun found was his but denying any involvement in the killing (04:00–05:00).

Falcon's Entrance

Enter Mike Waring, alias The Falcon, who teams up with Marie Cameron to exonerate Conrad. Falcon delves into the details, uncovering that Taylor was swindling Conrad through a fraudulent silver mining project introduced by Frank Moody (07:31–09:16). Falcon suspects a frame-up orchestrated by Moody to divert suspicion from himself and implicate Conrad.

Tensions with the Police

Falcon approaches Sergeant Corbett with his theory, pointing out inconsistencies in the investigation and pressing for more information on Frank Moody (12:07–14:33). Corbett, initially dismissive, begins to see merit in Falcon's arguments, especially after Conrad is locked up (14:18–14:43).

Confrontation with Moody

Falcon tracks down Moody, revealing Moody's duplicity and his role in framing Conrad. A confrontation ensues between Falcon and Moody, with Rocky, Moody's henchman, complicating the situation by trying to subdue Falcon (17:07–22:28). Through cunning dialogue and quick thinking, Falcon manages to outmaneuver Moody, turning the tides by involving Sergeant Corbett in apprehending the real culprit.

Resolution

In the climax, Falcon orchestrates a scenario where Moody's plans unravel, leading to his arrest and the exoneration of George Conrad. Sergeant Corbett acknowledges Falcon's prowess, and the episode concludes with a reaffirmation of justice prevailing through intelligence and perseverance (26:01–28:10).

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Notable Quotes

• Falcon on Determination:

  "They sandbox, but you know the game better than anyone else."
  [02:15]

• Sergeant Corbett on Falcon's Methods:

  "With your usual brilliant logic, you lock up the wrong guy."
  [14:03]

• Falcon on Moody's Schemes:

  "Moody is obviously a character who likes to go it alone. He gets rid of anybody who knows too much about him or with whom he has to split."
  [21:20]

• Falcon's Final Insight:

  "When Moody gets through with me, don't you think he'll go gunning for you?"
  [22:14]

• Sergeant Corbett's Realization:

  "You're the smart boy. You know something? That suits me just fine. Good night, genius."
  [27:34]

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Themes and Insights

Justice vs. Corruption

The episode delves deep into the perennial struggle between justice and corruption. Through Falcon's relentless pursuit of the truth, the narrative underscores the importance of integrity and perseverance in overcoming deceitful maneuvers orchestrated by corrupt individuals like Frank Moody.

The Power of Intelligence and Strategy

Falcon's methodical approach and sharp intellect highlight the significance of strategic thinking in solving complex cases. His ability to anticipate Moody's moves and outsmart him showcases the quintessential detective's reliance on wit over brute force.

Redemption and Exoneration

George Conrad's journey from being wrongfully accused to proving his innocence serves as a testament to the possibility of redemption. The episode emphasizes that with the right support and determination, one can overcome unjust circumstances.

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Conclusion

"The Falcon: The Case of the Shopkeeper's Gun" stands out as a stellar example of classic radio detective storytelling. With its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and engaging dialogue, the episode not only entertains but also imparts valuable lessons on justice, intelligence, and resilience. Whether you're a long-time fan of old-time radio or a newcomer to the genre, this episode offers a compelling listening experience that captures the essence of the Golden Age of Radio.

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Listeners who appreciate intricate mystery narratives and sharp detective work will find "The Case of the Shopkeeper's Gun" a must-listen. Tune in to Choice Classic Radio Detectives for more adventures from the legendary Falcon and other iconic detectives of old-time radio.

Transcript

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You for [e-mail].

[Falcon]

Hello? Yes, this is the Falcon speaking.

[Ed Hurley]

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 Damon. You met the Falcon first in his best selling novels. Then you saw him in his thrilling motion picture series. Now join him on the air when the Falcon solves the case of the shopkeeper's gun. It's Sunday night in New York and in a midtown hotel room, an ugly smile that is almost a sneer twists the thin lips of stocky Ed Taylor as he looks with bored and sleepy eyes at the young man who is pacing the floor in front of him.

[Conrad]

Sit down, Conrad. Give your feet a rest.

[Podbean Announcer]

You haven't given me your answer yet. Do I get my money back or don't I?

[Conrad]

I'll think about it.

[Podbean Announcer]

What's to think? You gave me a rooking. Either you make good on it or what? Do I get my money?

[Conrad]

Come here, Conrad.

[Podbean Announcer]

What do you want?

[Conrad]

Tell you something.

[Podbean Announcer]

What? Hey, let go. What's the idea? What are you trying to do?

[Conrad]

Just taking precaution.

[Podbean Announcer]

Yeah.

[Conrad]

Here we are. So you brought a gun with you?

[Podbean Announcer]

I wasn't Gonna use it? Unless I had to.

[Conrad]

Had to?

[Podbean Announcer]

To protect myself.

[Conrad]

Well, now that you don't have any protection, don't you think it's a little dangerous to hang around here?

[Podbean Announcer]

I'll get a lawyer.

[Conrad]

If a lawyer could do you any good, you wouldn't have come up here throwing your weight around. I hate to keep you because I know you must have things to do. Shall I show you out or throw you out?

[Podbean Announcer]

All right, Taylor. You win this round.

[Conrad]

I win them all, pal. So you might as well throw in the towel unless you want to see what it feels like to get counted out.

[Podbean Announcer]

We'll see about that. Goodbye, Taylor. Ah, you're an old meanie, Taylor. That was no way to treat the fellow.

[Conrad]

Dumb jerk. He had a gun, like you said he would.

[Ed Hurley]

Yes.

[Conrad]

I wonder if he'll try anything else.

[Podbean Announcer]

I doubt it. But as long as he doesn't know we're working together, I can always find out. Let's see the gun.

[Falcon]

Here.

[Podbean Announcer]

Thanks.

[Conrad]

Could you hear all he said in the other room?

[Ed Hurley]

Yeah.

[Falcon]

45.

[Podbean Announcer]

Conrad believes in doing things in a big way.

[Falcon]

He.

[Conrad]

He probably won't quit. You'd better have a talk with him tomorrow, see if he's planning anything.

[Podbean Announcer]

Maybe it won't be necessary. I've thought of one way I can kill two birds with one stone or one bullet. What?

[Conrad]

You're not going to kill him?

[Podbean Announcer]

No, Taylor, I'm not going to kill him. Well, I'm going to kill you.

[Conrad]

What kind of a gag is that?

[Falcon]

We.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Wait a minute, Moody.

[Conrad]

Don't point that.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Are you the owner of this shop?

[Ed Hurley]

What?

[Sergeant Corbett]

I said, are you the owner of this place?

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, yeah.

[Sergeant Corbett]

George Conrad.

[Podbean Announcer]

That's right.

[Sergeant Corbett]

How's business?

[Podbean Announcer]

What?

[Sergeant Corbett]

I said, how's. Look, turn off that record, will you, so we can talk.

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, yeah, sure, sure. What were you saying?

[Sergeant Corbett]

I said the record business must be pretty good.

[Podbean Announcer]

Why?

[Sergeant Corbett]

For you to be able to blow 10 grand. Conrad.

[Podbean Announcer]

What? Who are you?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Sergeant Corbett, Police department.

[Podbean Announcer]

Police? What's the matter?

[Sergeant Corbett]

We found your name in Ed Taylor's books.

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, you've got his books. Can you prove anything?

[Sergeant Corbett]

About what?

[Podbean Announcer]

About his swindling.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Oh, you think he's a swindler?

[Podbean Announcer]

Of course. Isn't that why you picked him up?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Not exactly.

[Podbean Announcer]

Then what?

[Sergeant Corbett]

I found a gun. Traced it. You bought it a couple of days ago.

[Podbean Announcer]

That's right. What's that gun?

[Sergeant Corbett]

The gun that killed Taylor.

[Podbean Announcer]

Killed?

[Sergeant Corbett]

That's what I said.

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, so that's it. But surely you don't. Look, if I had anything to do with the shooting, I Certainly wouldn't have left my own gun there.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Why did you leave your gun there?

[Podbean Announcer]

My tailor took it away from me.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Why did you buy the gun?

[Podbean Announcer]

I thought there might be trouble when I demanded my money.

[Sergeant Corbett]

So you admit demanding money. You admit you expected trouble. You admit you went up there with a gun?

[Podbean Announcer]

But I didn't kill him. Like I said, I certainly wouldn't have left the gun there.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Wasn't left there. It was hidden in a trash barrel in an alley nearby. If the barrel hadn't been accidentally knocked over, the gun probably never would have been discovered.

[Podbean Announcer]

Well, then all I can say is get out of my way.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Hey, Conrad. Stop.

[Podbean Announcer]

Well, hello, Georgie.

Shut the door, quick.

Well, all right.

I said shut it.

What's the matter?

Where do I lock it? Marie, the police are after me.

The police?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Why?

[Podbean Announcer]

What did you do?

Somebody killed Taylor.

Oh, no.

They think it was me. I admitted I had a row with him.

But you didn't kill him.

Of course not. But how am I gonna prove it?

Well, if you didn't do it.

But I was there. The bullet was from my gun.

It was? But how could it.

Taylor got it away from me. I don't know what happened after that.

I begged you not to get a gun.

All right, you were right. Let's not go into that now. What am I gonna do?

Well, first you better give yourself up.

I can't. I got too much on me.

But running away will only make it look worse.

I can't help it.

Oh, please, Geor. You wouldn't listen to me before. Listen to me now. Don't be crazy. Give yourself up. We'll get a good lawyer and maybe a detective.

No.

What do you hope to get?

Who's that?

I don't know. Who is it?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Sergeant Corbett, Police Department. Open up.

[Podbean Announcer]

They're here. Yes. Don't let them in.

Well, I've got you.

[Sergeant Corbett]

We know you're in there, Conrad. You don't want any trouble. You give yourself up.

[Podbean Announcer]

Marie, the building next door is the same height as this one, isn't it?

Yes, but what?

I can get up the fire escape to the roof.

Oh, no. They'll have the building surrounded. They'll shoot you.

It's my only chance.

Now, Georgie, please.

I got to try it.

Then I've got to try.

[Falcon]

Hello?

[Podbean Announcer]

Hello. I. I'm looking for Michael Waring's apartment. The Falcon.

[Falcon]

You found it.

[Podbean Announcer]

Are you he?

[Falcon]

That's right.

[Podbean Announcer]

Well, I'm Marie Cameron. I phoned you a little while ago.

[Falcon]

Oh, yes, come in.

[Podbean Announcer]

Thank you.

[Falcon]

Now, since you called, I've been doing some research. The story's in the paper.

[Podbean Announcer]

Part of it. I want to give you the rest.

[Falcon]

All right, go ahead.

[Podbean Announcer]

Well, do you prefer to be called Falcon or Mr. Waring?

[Falcon]

I'll settle for Mike.

[Podbean Announcer]

All right. But in that case, you better call me Marie.

[Falcon]

All right, Marie. Now what did you want to tell me?

[Podbean Announcer]

I turned Georgie into the police because I know he's innocent.

[Falcon]

Can't think of a better reason.

[Podbean Announcer]

I mean it. I was afraid if he tried to escape, they'd shoot him. But now that I've gotten him into this jam. You've got to get him out of it.

[Falcon]

You're pretty good at making up other people's minds.

[Podbean Announcer]

But he's innocent. And you're such a good detective.

[Falcon]

Am I?

[Podbean Announcer]

So I hear.

[Falcon]

You just keep listening to that kind of talk.

[Podbean Announcer]

I will. If you live up to it.

[Falcon]

I'll try. Now, what makes you so sure Conrad is innocent?

[Podbean Announcer]

I know him.

[Falcon]

You also know he bought a gun. Don't tell me he was just going to use it as a paperweight.

[Podbean Announcer]

He bought that for self defense.

[Ed Hurley]

Oh, sure.

[Falcon]

Whoever heard of guns for anything else?

[Podbean Announcer]

You think he killed Taylor?

[Falcon]

His gun did.

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, but that's just it. Can't you see how convenient it was that the trash can was turned over so the gun could be found? It was a plant.

[Ed Hurley]

Maybe.

[Falcon]

According to the paper, Conrad claims Taylor got the gun away from him in a fight. But it didn't say what the fight was about. You know?

[Podbean Announcer]

Yes. That's why I wanted to see you. Taylor was a swindler. He sold Georgie an interest in a fake silver mining project.

[Falcon]

How did Georgie find out it was fake?

[Podbean Announcer]

Mr. Moody told him.

[Falcon]

Who's Moody?

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, the man who introduced Georgie to Taylor. And when he found out Taylor was a crook, he felt terrible about it and told Georgie right away. But Georgie had already invested.

[Falcon]

Is Moody a friend of Georgie's?

[Podbean Announcer]

No.

They met on a train, I think.

[Falcon]

Where can I find Moody?

[Podbean Announcer]

Well, I don't know, but I guess Georgie would.

Why?

What do you want him for? Do you think Moody can help you?

[Falcon]

Maybe. In a number of ways. So if I'm going to help you, I better get moving.

[Podbean Announcer]

Where are you going?

[Falcon]

To jail. Hello, Georgine.

[Podbean Announcer]

Who are you?

[Falcon]

Mike Waring.

[Podbean Announcer]

Haven't I heard that name somewhere before?

[Falcon]

I hope so.

[Podbean Announcer]

What do you want?

[Falcon]

Perhaps you could tell me how to find Frank Moody.

[Podbean Announcer]

Why?

[Falcon]

Well, he might know something about this murder.

[Podbean Announcer]

What makes you think so?

[Falcon]

Marie tells me that.

[Podbean Announcer]

Marie? What have you got to do with her?

[Falcon]

I'm working for her, in fact.

[Podbean Announcer]

Get out of here.

[Falcon]

Now, look, George.

[Podbean Announcer]

I said get out.

[Ed Hurley]

Now, take it easy, George.

[Podbean Announcer]

She's made enough trouble.

[Falcon]

So have you. All right, Georgie, get up. Sorry I had a sluggie, but you asked for it.

[Podbean Announcer]

I don't want any help from Marie.

[Falcon]

All right, all right. There's no use trying to throw me out. I can't get out of here even if I want to until they make with a key.

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, yeah. I didn't think, though.

[Falcon]

I noticed. Very interesting.

[Podbean Announcer]

What is?

[Falcon]

Where you blow your top. Could explain what happened to Taylor.

[Podbean Announcer]

That's right. Tell me. I killed him. See the kind of help Marie gets me?

[Falcon]

I don't say you killed Taylor, but the police do. You seem determined to build up a case for them. Maybe I can help you out of this, But I'm gonna need your help. Do I get it, or do you like bars on the window?

[Podbean Announcer]

I don't want any help from Marie.

[Falcon]

I'm not Marie.

[Podbean Announcer]

You're working for her.

[Falcon]

I'm working for whoever pays me. If you want to pick up the check, fight it out with her.

[Podbean Announcer]

Do you think you can do anything for me, Waring?

[Falcon]

Probably. If I can find Moody.

[Podbean Announcer]

I don't know where he stayed. He always called me.

[Falcon]

Oh, fine.

[Podbean Announcer]

But I don't think he knows anything about it.

[Falcon]

He was Taylor's come on, wasn't he?

[Podbean Announcer]

No, he introduced us.

[Falcon]

Well, that's what I mean.

[Podbean Announcer]

But I'm sure they weren't working together.

[Falcon]

Why?

[Podbean Announcer]

It was Moody who told me Taylor was a crook.

[Ed Hurley]

That's right.

[Falcon]

After you had invested. Even so, it was Moody who suggested that you buy a gun, wasn't it?

[Podbean Announcer]

To protect myself, yeah.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yeah, sure.

[Falcon]

In fact, it was following Moody's advice that landed you right where you are.

[Podbean Announcer]

Hadn't thought of that.

[Falcon]

Well, you better start thinking.

[Podbean Announcer]

Are you suggesting Moody's the murderer?

[Falcon]

I'm just suggesting it's worth looking into.

[Podbean Announcer]

Yeah. Yeah, it is. I had an idea it was somebody else who'd been swindled by Taylor, but the way you line things up.

[Falcon]

You mean the way Moody has lined you up.

[Podbean Announcer]

If only I could tell you where to find him.

[Falcon]

Well, didn't he ever say anything that might give a lead?

[Podbean Announcer]

Not that I can think of.

[Falcon]

Oh, come on. Think hard as though your life depended upon it. Because there's a good chance it does.

[Ed Hurley]

This is Ed Hurley. He friends? Well, it sounds as though Mike and George Conrad are going to have to think pretty hard to find Moody.

[Falcon]

Yes.

[Ed Hurley]

The way you have to think when you want to find a way to make Good use of those leftover pieces of yesterday's roast. But making use of leftovers isn't hard at all. If you make Velveeta your handy helper, you can melt Kraft's famous pasteurized processed cheese food for a smooth golden cheese sauce to pour over those leftovers for a brand new hot main dish. And this Velveeta sauce is so easy to make. All you do is melt a half pound of Velveeta in the top of your double boiler. You don't have to cut Velveeta up because it melts so easily and so smoothly without any lumps. Then just stir in a quarter cup of milk. Season to your taste. And there you have the smoothest golden cheese sauce ever. Just the thing to pour over leftover bits of meat or seafood or vegetables for a main dish that really tastes good. Extra good because Velveeta has such a rich yet mild cheddar cheese flavor. And this sauce is extra nourishing too, because Velveeta is so rich in important food values from milk. Make it your handy helper mother for easy hot main dishes and for hearty snacks and sandwiches too. Tomorrow get a 2 pound loaf of the pasteurized processed cheese food of top quality genuine Velveeta. Now back to the Adventures of the falcon. 10 minutes have passed since Mike Waring had his talk with Georgie Conrad. Now the Falcon drops into the Homicide Bureau to have a talk with Sergeant Corman. Hello, Corbett.

[Falcon]

Well, you've done it again.

[Sergeant Corbett]

How are you, Waring? What have I done?

[Falcon]

With your usual brilliant logic, you lock up the wrong guy.

[Sergeant Corbett]

If you're talking about Georgie Conrad, who else?

[Falcon]

Don't tell me you pulled any other boners?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Boner? Yeah, you're right. Waring Conrad is undoubtedly innocent. That's why he pulled a sprint when I questioned him.

[Falcon]

Well, he's impulsive, that's all.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Sure, he runs for cover when he sees a badge. This kind of impulse I don't go for.

[Falcon]

Doesn't prove anything.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Doesn't have to with all the rest we have on him.

[Falcon]

You could be wrong.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I'm willing to be show. What have you got?

[Falcon]

A character who got Conrad into this. Frank Moody.

[Sergeant Corbett]

What about him?

[Falcon]

Well, that's what I want to ask you. You have anything on him?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Just that he's a name Conrad gave me. He has no record, he has no address. If that's your hot lead, I'd like.

[Falcon]

To have a talk with him.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Go ahead. All you have to do is find him.

[Falcon]

I was counting on an assist from you.

[Sergeant Corbett]

If he Drops in, I'll let you know.

[Falcon]

You're too good to me.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Think nothing of it.

[Falcon]

Believe me, Corbett, I don't.

[Podbean Announcer]

Hello?

[Falcon]

Hello, Marie. This is Mike Waring.

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, yes, Mike, what is it?

[Falcon]

Did you ever meet Frank Moody with Georgie?

[Podbean Announcer]

Once.

[Falcon]

Once is enough if you remember him.

[Podbean Announcer]

Oh, I think I would if I saw him again.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Good.

[Falcon]

How soon can you get here?

[Podbean Announcer]

Where?

[Falcon]

The Hollis Hotel.

[Podbean Announcer]

Is Moody there?

[Falcon]

That's what I want you to tell me.

[Podbean Announcer]

I'll be right over. Podbean, your message amplified.

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Launch your podcast on Podbean today. Well, Mike.

[Ed Hurley]

Hello, Maureen.

[Falcon]

Run over here. We can sit down. You can watch the people as they.

[Ed Hurley]

Go through the lobby.

[Podbean Announcer]

All right. But what makes you think I'll see Moody?

[Falcon]

I check with Taylor's apartment house. All outgoing calls go through the desk there and the clerk writes down the numbers. Taylor made five calls to this hotel.

[Ed Hurley]

The last few days before he was killed.

[Podbean Announcer]

And you think he was calling Moody?

[Falcon]

He was calling somebody and could have been Moody.

[Podbean Announcer]

Did you ask for Moody at the desk?

[Falcon]

Oh, naturally. They say there's nobody here by that name. But who says he used his right name?

[Podbean Announcer]

Well, how long do you expect me to sit here?

[Falcon]

Until you see Moody.

[Podbean Announcer]

It may take all day.

[Falcon]

Well, all right, if you want to help Georgie.

[Podbean Announcer]

Do you think Moody can help?

[Falcon]

I wouldn't be surprised.

[Podbean Announcer]

But suppose he's checked out? Or suppose it isn't Moody who Taylor was calling?

[Falcon]

Well, he can't always play a sure thing, angel. You're the one who said I have to clear George. You know, if you can't spare the time, I'm willing.

[Podbean Announcer]

I just hope it. Hey, wait a minute. There he is.

[Falcon]

Where?

[Podbean Announcer]

Waiting for the elevator.

[Falcon]

Good. I'll join him.

[Podbean Announcer]

And it didn't even take five minutes.

[Falcon]

Are you kidding? This is the third lead I've tracked down, and it's the first one that was even hot enough to call you in on. I'll be seeing you, Marie. Hello, Moody.

[Podbean Announcer]

I beg your pardon?

[Falcon]

I said hello, Moody.

[Ed Hurley]

My name is Morrison.

[Falcon]

Let your friends call you Moody. Who are you? What do you want? Mike Waring. I'm a friend of Georgie Conrad.

[Podbean Announcer]

Hurry up.

[Ed Hurley]

Excuse me.

[Falcon]

Oh, that's all right, friend. I'm right with you.

[Podbean Announcer]

What do you want with me, Waring?

[Falcon]

A tie up with Taylor and have.

[Ed Hurley]

No tie up with him.

[Podbean Announcer]

You let Conrad to him, I'm admitting nothing.

[Falcon]

Well, it's easy to prove. Conrad won't be the only one you sucked in. Ought to be plenty of people to identify you.

[Podbean Announcer]

I'll cross that bridge when I come to it. And now, are you finished, or do you care to come in?

[Falcon]

Oh, I haven't even started. I'll come in.

[Ed Hurley]

Very well.

[Podbean Announcer]

You're what they call a private eye, aren't you?

[Falcon]

Also Dick. Seamus. Flatfoot for hire. A snooper, A hawkshaw. Michelle, I. Go on.

[Podbean Announcer]

I get the idea. How did you find me?

[Falcon]

With those credentials, what do you expect?

[Podbean Announcer]

At any rate, you're a step ahead of the police. They haven't been here yet.

[Falcon]

That's good. Is it?

[Podbean Announcer]

As long as we can keep you a step ahead. I didn't want to be connected with this. And you're going to tell me how you found out so that I can wipe out the connection.

[Falcon]

You'll have to wipe me out, too.

[Podbean Announcer]

You begin to get the idea.

[Ed Hurley]

Don't reach for a gun.

[Falcon]

Not as long as you beat me to it. I'd hate you to think I'm a copycat.

[Podbean Announcer]

No, you'll just raise your hands.

[Ed Hurley]

That's it. Rocky. Rocky.

[Rocky]

You want me, Mr. Moody? Oh. Who's our friend?

[Podbean Announcer]

Michael Waring.

[Rocky]

The falcon.

[Ed Hurley]

Oh, is that what they call him?

[Podbean Announcer]

It must be wonderful to be educated.

[Falcon]

Like you are, Rocky.

[Podbean Announcer]

Well, let's clip the falcon's talons.

[Rocky]

What?

[Podbean Announcer]

Frisk him for a rod.

[Rocky]

He's clean.

[Podbean Announcer]

Rather careless of you, Waring. Coming here without a gun.

[Falcon]

Well, I can't see what good it would do me.

[Podbean Announcer]

You have a point.

[Rocky]

Now what, Mr. Moody?

[Ed Hurley]

Tie him up.

[Rocky]

Okay. Shall I gag him?

[Ed Hurley]

Won't be necessary.

[Podbean Announcer]

One sound out of him and he knows you'll shut him up. He better be tied up, because you and I are going to have to make plans. And while we're doing it, we don't want the falcon flying away.

[Ed Hurley]

Well, Waring, how do you feel?

[Falcon]

Fit to be untied. Oh, you and your boy had your confab? Yes, Waring.

[Podbean Announcer]

So I have things to do.

[Ed Hurley]

Rocky will keep you company.

[Podbean Announcer]

So long.

[Ed Hurley]

Take care of him, Rocky. Yeah.

[Rocky]

You sure walked into something, mister.

[Falcon]

Yeah, but maybe I'll get out of it. Moody doesn't seem very smart.

[Rocky]

Who says so?

[Falcon]

He should have kept up his bluff. This rough stuff just clinches things against Him.

[Rocky]

Yeah, but who knows about it except you? And you're not gonna talk?

[Falcon]

There's only one way to shut me up.

[Rocky]

He knows that.

[Falcon]

Let the police know I'm working on this case. Anything happens to me, they'll know it's tied to the Taylor murder.

[Rocky]

So what?

[Falcon]

So what becomes of the frame Moody had worked out for Conrad? Conrad's in the pokey now, so that clears him of anything that happens to me.

[Rocky]

You don't give Moody credit. You think he didn't think of that?

[Falcon]

Doesn't look like it.

[Rocky]

So the frame against Conrad foes might anyway, with him hollering frame. The question is, who framed him?

[Falcon]

And what's Moody's answer?

[Rocky]

What's the matter with Conrad's girl?

[Ed Hurley]

Marie?

[Rocky]

Yeah, she turned them in. Who's to say she didn't do it to protect herself?

[Falcon]

Oh, so that's it.

[Rocky]

That's it. And then she hires you to make it look like she's innocent. But you stumble onto something, so she has to get rid of you, too.

[Falcon]

I see him.

[Rocky]

She's not in stir. So anything that happens to you will fit right into the picture.

[Falcon]

Well, I've got to apologize to Moody. I underestimated him. You're the one who's playing it dumb.

[Rocky]

Me?

[Falcon]

Yeah.

[Rocky]

How do you figure that?

[Falcon]

Moody is obviously a character who likes to go it alone. He gets rid of anybody who knows too much about him or with whom he has to split. Little blood more or less doesn't mean a thing to him. How long do you think it's going to be before he gives you a dose of same?

[Rocky]

He wouldn't.

[Falcon]

Maybe not. But if I were you, I wouldn't sleep so good. As soon as he decides you aren't necessary to him anymore.

[Rocky]

Shut up.

[Falcon]

Okay? Just think it over.

[Rocky]

You're crazy.

[Falcon]

Not as crazy as Taylor. He thought he and Moody were partners. Look what happened to him.

[Rocky]

I said shut up.

[Sergeant Corbett]

No.

[Falcon]

All right, Rocky. You don't want to face it.

[Rocky]

I suppose you expect me to let you go.

[Falcon]

It would be the smart thing to do.

[Rocky]

Yeah, well, even if Moody is like you say, what's to stop me from clearing out before he gets back and leaving you here?

[Falcon]

Nothing. Except that when Moody gets through with me, don't you think he'll go gunning for you?

[Rocky]

But if I let you go so you can finish Moody, what's to stop you from coming after me?

[Falcon]

Nothing. But my heart wouldn't be in it as much as Moody's.

[Rocky]

Well, I'll have to think it over.

[Falcon]

You do that. And think fast, because when Moody gets back, he'll be calling the shots. And I've got an idea. He has one labeled for each of us.

[Ed Hurley]

This is Ed Herlihy again, friends. Well, I should say Rocky will have to think fast if he's going to get Mike and himself out of this predicament. As fast as you have to think when unexpected company comes and you have to fix something to eat in a hurry. Of course, if you have a two pound loaf of Velveeta in your refrigerator, your problem is solved. Because in a matter of minutes, you can slice Kraft's delicious pasteurized processed cheese food and make golden brown grilled cheese sandwiches your guests will really go for. And no wonder. Velveeta has such a fine, rich, yet mild cheddar cheese flavor. And Velveeta sandwiches are as wholesome a snack as you could want because Velveeta is rich in important food values from milk and as digestible as milk itself. Make Velveeta your handy helper, won't you? For delicious, wholesome snacks and fine hot dishes too. Get genuine Velveeta tomorrow. Now back to the Adventures of the Falcon. It's a few minutes since Mike tried to convince Rocky that he was on the wrong team. Rocky is thinking it over. And he's still thinking when the door opens and Moody returns.

[Podbean Announcer]

Well, Rocky, I just talked to Conrad's girl on the telephone. She fell for it nicely.

[Rocky]

Yeah?

[Podbean Announcer]

Mm. I asked her to meet you in half an hour at Roper's Grill. Now, when she gets there, here's what I want you to tell her.

[Falcon]

Just a minute, Moody. What's that? Right over there?

[Podbean Announcer]

Where? Waring.

[Falcon]

In the corner on the desk. Looks like a telephone to me. Stay out of this, Waring. I can't help wondering why you had to go out the phone with one right here in the room.

[Podbean Announcer]

Yeah?

[Falcon]

Was it because there was something you didn't want Rocky to hear?

[Podbean Announcer]

Couldn't it be something I didn't want you to hear?

[Falcon]

Well, considering your plans for me, doesn't seem likely.

[Rocky]

Yeah, how about that, Mr. Moody?

[Podbean Announcer]

Don't be silly, Rocky.

[Falcon]

And how come you're asking Rocky to meet Marie? Why not meet her yourself?

[Podbean Announcer]

I told you to stay out of this, Waring.

[Falcon]

That's the trouble with tagging a guy for the big sleep. It's a one way ticket for me anyway, so why should I take orders?

[Podbean Announcer]

Because you can go out fast or you can go out slow. If you insist upon being annoying. There's still time for Rocky to make you quite Uncomfortable?

[Falcon]

I don't think so. I have an idea Rocky is interested in what I have to say. Rocky will do what I tell him. For instance, why are you having him meet the girl in a public place?

[Podbean Announcer]

That's enough worry.

[Falcon]

Is it because you want them to be seen together?

[Podbean Announcer]

Of course not.

[Falcon]

Makes it very convenient.

[Ed Hurley]

Rocky. Show.

[Falcon]

Waring.

[Podbean Announcer]

It's impolite to interrupt.

[Falcon]

Are you really having the girl meet him there? Why are you lying to Rocky?

[Podbean Announcer]

Rocky, are you going to talk to.

[Falcon]

The girl on the phone? I happen to know that's impossible.

[Rocky]

Rocky, for the last time, why is it impossible? Wary?

[Falcon]

Because she couldn't be reached by phone.

[Rocky]

How do you know?

[Falcon]

Because right now she's downstairs in the lobby of this hotel.

[Podbean Announcer]

Don't listen to him, Rocky. Can't you see what he's trying to do?

[Rocky]

Can you prove what you said? Wary?

[Falcon]

Go see for yourself. It'll only take a minute.

[Podbean Announcer]

Stay where you are, Rocky.

[Rocky]

He asked a lot of questions, Moody. You didn't answer.

[Podbean Announcer]

I don't have to answer to him.

[Rocky]

Well then answer me.

[Podbean Announcer]

Well, that's your attitude.

[Ed Hurley]

Here's your answer. Drop your gun.

[Falcon]

Rocky. Sitting there with a gun in your hand. You let him beat you to the drawer.

[Rocky]

I didn't think.

[Podbean Announcer]

I said drop that gun.

[Rocky]

Sure, Moody, like so.

[Podbean Announcer]

Cupid fool making me do that.

[Sergeant Corbett]

People will be coming.

[Falcon]

That's right, Moody.

[Podbean Announcer]

Well, you can stop bloating, Waring. That means I've got to take care of you right now.

[Falcon]

Well, Moody, at least give me time to do this.

[Podbean Announcer]

Hey, how did you.

[Falcon]

Rock, he was a fool. Not a complete fool.

[Podbean Announcer]

Now I'll take the gun. No you don't. All right then I'll do this.

[Falcon]

Well, you see, Corbett, Moody didn't know my hands were untied and that gave me a chance to jump him.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You mean you talked Rocky into switching to your side? War?

[Falcon]

Well, not entirely, but I had him worried. So he untied me and sat behind me with a gun in his hand. He wanted to see which way the cards lay and he was ready to play either side. Ah, but when he found out that Moody was double crossing him, he was too slow on the draw. Oh, by the way, now that you've got Moody, did you get him to talk?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yeah, yeah, he signed a statement.

[Falcon]

Good. I was guessing it is double cross. Did he fill in the details?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yeah, you were right about him not calling the girl. He just wanted Rocky to go out asking for. For in order to establish a connection between her and Rocky so that if.

[Falcon]

Anything happened to either one, the Other would be blamed, right? Well, one thing you've got to say for Moody, he's a guy who went all out. And you were overlooking him from my little dope like Conrad.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Who says I was overlooking him?

[Falcon]

Oh, come now, Corbett. I tried to steer to Moody, but you couldn't see it.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Sure, I got rocks in my head.

[Falcon]

Well, now that you mention it.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Wearing there Corbett, who did all the legwork tracking down Moody, who got lassoed by a thug and nearly wound up with a bullet in his insides.

[Falcon]

What are you trying to prove?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Who's sitting across the table from me right now with a shiner the size of a grapefruit, which he got risking life and limb disarming a desperate killer who he has to turn over to me when he gets them disarmed. Well, all the time, dopey, me can't think of anything but rest my feet in my desk and wonder what to do. Now wait a minute, Waring. I got rockets in my head. You're the smart boy. You know something? That suits me just fine. Good night, genius.

[Falcon]

This is Mike Waring. Friends and I have something very important to talk to you about. It's your safety in an air raid, right? Can't happen here. Well, heaven knows we hope it never will. But we can't be sure, so we've got to be prepared. Yes, you, me, and every man and woman and child must know what to do to protect himself. There are official civil defense air raid instructions everyone should learn by heart. If you can't get these instruction sheets from your local civil Defense Office, send 5 cents in coin or stamps to Superintendent of Documents, Washington, D.C. you got that? Superintendent of Documents, Washington, Dc and be sure to learn these air raid safety rules by heart. You never can tell. They may save your life.

[Ed Hurley]

The Case of the Missing Miss. The Case of the Missing Miss. That's the title of next week's Adventure of the Falcon. When Mike Waring learns that when you're playing games, the best place to play hide and seek is the morgue. 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. Schubert, written today by Jerome ET Stein and directed by Richard Lewis. Music was by Arlo. Les Damon was starred as the Falcon, with Ken lynch as Sergeant Corbett. Be sure to hear the great Gilda sleeve next Wednesday evening over most of these stations. In next Wednesday's broadcast, Gildy comes face to face with an hilarious problem and solves it in a way that will keep you laughing for days. Remember the show, the time and the place. The great Gilda sleeve, next Wednesday evening over most of these stations. Check your local newspaper for time of broadcast. This is Ed Hurley. He's speaking for the Kraft Foods Company. Tonight. Here Light up the Sky. Presented by Theater Guild on NBC.