The Falcon: the Case of the Substitute Target 01/21/1951

Summary

Summary of "The Falcon: The Case of the Substitute Target"

Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: The Falcon: The Case of the Substitute Target
Original Release Date: February 6, 2025
Transcript Knowledge Cutoff: October 2023

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Introduction

In the gripping episode titled "The Falcon: The Case of the Substitute Target," listeners are plunged into the perilous underworld of 1950s New York City. Hosted by Choice Classic Radio, this installment showcases Mike Waring, also known as the Falcon, as he navigates through a labyrinth of mob intrigue, betrayal, and relentless pursuit to solve a high-stakes murder case. The episode masterfully blends suspenseful storytelling with sharp dialogue, bringing to life the quintessential detective narrative of the Golden Age of Radio.

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Main Plot

The episode opens with a tense confrontation in the lavish apartment of Ed Rizzo, a corpulent mobster facing intimidation from a determined and imposing figure, Lieutenant Larkin. The struggle centers around Rizzo's desperation to assert dominance and maintain his grip within the criminal hierarchy.

At [01:14], the Falcon himself appears amidst the turmoil:

Falcon (Mike Waring): "Oh Barbara, thanks for calling, but tonight is out. Angel, I have to teach some gangsters that you can't get away with murder."

This declaration sets the tone for the episode, emphasizing the Falcon's commitment to justice and his readiness to confront underworld threats.

As the narrative unfolds, Lorna March enters the scene seeking the Falcon's assistance. [07:08] she explains her predicament:

Lorna March: "The police grill me about Art's connections. They think I know something that I'm holding back. But I don't."

Her plea for protection and assistance leads the Falcon to delve deeper into the mystery surrounding the murder of Art Travers, a key figure whose death has left the criminal community on edge. The Falcon's investigation reveals tangled alliances and hidden motives, especially as he interacts with Sergeant Corbett, who is also probing the case.

Throughout the episode, the Falcon employs his keen detective skills to piece together clues, often navigating dangerous encounters with mob members like Joey Jonas and Lt. Larkin. A pivotal moment occurs when the Falcon confronts Joey Jonas in a bar:

Falcon: "I want you to do me a favor." Joey Jonas: "I got no time for idle chit chat."

This interaction underscores the high stakes and the Falcon's strategic maneuvering to extract vital information.

The climax builds as the Falcon and Sergeant Corbett corner Rizzo, leading to a breathless chase that culminates in Rizzo's attempted escape via a fire escape. The tension reaches its peak when Rizzo confronts the Falcon, resulting in a dramatic showdown:

Rizzo: "I hate to disappoint you gentlemen, but I have other plans." Falcon: "That's the way it looks to them. And they won't sit still for that kind of an act."

Ultimately, the Falcon's relentless pursuit and tactical prowess lead to the unraveling of the mystery, bringing justice to Art Travers and dismantling a segment of the mob's influence.

---

Character Dynamics

Mike Waring (The Falcon): As the protagonist, the Falcon epitomizes the classic detective—intelligent, resourceful, and morally steadfast. His interactions reveal a man dedicated to uncovering the truth, often putting himself at risk to protect others.

Ed Rizzo: Representing the mobster archetype, Rizzo is depicted as authoritative yet vulnerable, struggling to maintain his position amidst internal power struggles. His confrontations with the Falcon highlight the thin line between menace and desperation.

Lieutenant Larkin: Serving as a secondary antagonist, Larkin adds complexity to the plot, embodying loyalty conflicts within the criminal organization. His eventual betrayal and alliance with Rizzo deepen the narrative's intrigue.

Sergeant Corbett: As the law enforcement counterpart, Corbett collaborates with the Falcon, embodying the cooperative spirit necessary to combat organized crime. His pragmatic approach complements the Falcon's investigative techniques.

Lorna March: Her role as a client seeking protection introduces a personal stake in the narrative, showcasing the Falcon's protective instincts and broadening the story's emotional depth.

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Key Moments and Notable Quotes

• Falcon's Commitment to Justice ([01:14]):

  Falcon: "...tonight is out. Angel, I have to teach some gangsters that you can't get away with murder."

• Lorna March's Plea for Help ([07:08]):

  Lorna March: "I only knew Art a short while. I didn't know he was a gangster. If I had, I wouldn't have had anything to do with him. Believe me."

• Falcon Confronts Joey Jonas ([10:29]):

  Falcon: "You name it, I'll drink it." Joey Jonas: "What are you drinking?"

• Rizzo's Desperation ([21:39]):

  Rizzo: "I have to do this myself. But there's no time and I don't want to risk anything going wrong."

• Final Showdown and Resolution ([27:22]):

  Falcon: "He's taking a gamble. He's gonna drop to the ground." Corbett: "Watch him wearing." Falcon: "It's all right, Corbett. I don't think he's going anywhere."

These quotes encapsulate the characters' motivations and the episode's escalating tension, highlighting pivotal turning points in the storyline.

---

Conclusion

"The Falcon: The Case of the Substitute Target" delivers a captivating blend of suspense, action, and intricate character interplay. Through Mike Waring's determined pursuit of justice, listeners are treated to a classic detective tale that underscores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and moral integrity. The episode effectively balances fast-paced dialogue with strategic plot development, ensuring an engaging experience for fans of old-time radio dramas. By the end, the Falcon's victory not only resolves the central mystery but also reinforces his status as a stalwart defender against the chaos of organized crime.

---

Final Thoughts

For enthusiasts of the Golden Age of Radio, this episode of Choice Classic Radio Detectives offers a quintessential experience, rich with the atmospheric tension and sharp storytelling that defined classic radio mysteries. Whether revisiting this era or discovering it anew, listeners will find "The Case of the Substitute Target" to be a testament to the enduring allure of radio drama.

Transcript

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[Podbean Host]

Welcome to Choice.

[Ed Hurley]

Classic Radio where we bring to you.

[Podbean Host]

The greatest old time radio shows like us on Facebook. Subscribe to us on YouTube and thank you for [e-mail] hello yes, this is the Falcon speaking. Oh Barbara, thanks for calling, but tonight is out. Angel, I have to teach some gangsters that you can't get away with murder. Especially since the murder they want to get away with is mine.

[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 substitute Target. Before we join the Falcon for his latest adventure, I'd like to tell you about nine of the handiest little menu helpers you ever had in your kitchen. They're the nine famous Kraft cheese spreads and they really are handy for making snacks and sandwiches, salad toppings and appetizers. All of the Kraft cheese spreads, the mild tasting ones and the sharp tasting ones too, are delicious. And they're all the very finest quality because they're made by Kraft. The name Kraft on Cheese or Cheese Foods means the very finest you can buy. So tomorrow get several of the nine famous cheese spreads made by Kraft. And now the case of the Substitute Target. It's Sunday night in the expensive New York apartment of Ed Rizzo. Rizzo is a fat bald mobster who Is at the moment taking a bad pushing around from a tall young man who seems definitely to mean business.

[Business Representative]

All right, Rizzo, who is it? Leo, when you talk. No, you don't.

[Rizzo]

Oh, my fingers.

[Business Representative]

You shouldn't have reached for that drawer. What are you looking for? A gun. Here's one. Only I'll hold it. There's no use looking around for protection, Rizzo. I'm your protection. You know that. Only right now, I'm not protecting Ravaz.

[Larkin]

If you'd only listen to me.

[Rizzo]

I want the boss.

[Business Representative]

The top boss. Now, who is he? Where can I find him?

[Larkin]

I told you, I'm the boss. You worked for me. You.

[Business Representative]

You don't seem to understand, Rizzo. I don't work for you. Not anymore. I want the boss.

[Rizzo]

Not a cheap stooge, do you, Traverse?

[Ed Hurley]

Who are you?

[Business Representative]

I didn't know anybody was here.

[Rizzo]

You weren't supposed to know anybody was here. Now stop waving that gun. You better do as I say. Unless you want to find out if I'd really put a bullet in your stomach. Hurry up. Drop it.

[Ed Hurley]

All right, all right. Don't.

[Podbean Host]

I'll drop it.

[Rizzo]

That's better. Pick it up, Rizzo. Yeah, all right. Now just what's been going on here?

[Business Representative]

You're a boss, aren't you?

[Rizzo]

What gives you that idea?

[Business Representative]

Looking at Rizzo.

[Rizzo]

All right, I'm the boss. So what?

[Business Representative]

So from now on, I'm working for you. I'm tired of taking orders from Rizzo.

[Ed Hurley]

Ah.

[Rizzo]

And what happens when you get tired of taking orders from me?

[Corbett]

I won't.

[Business Representative]

I. I know I couldn't run the mob myself. At least not yet.

[Larkin]

Listen to the park. All right, kid. Now here's where you get yours for getting smart.

[Podbean Host]

You trot it out.

[Rizzo]

Hold it, Rizzo. Let go of him.

[Larkin]

We gotta teach these punks to stay in line.

[Rizzo]

Then stop. Start by staying in line yourself. Take your hands off him. Do as I tell you.

[Podbean Host]

Okay.

[Rizzo]

Boy has initiative. I like that. Tell me, Travers, how did you find out Rizzo wasn't head man?

[Business Representative]

He could never make up his mind. He always had to think it over. Only he wasn't thinking, he was asking.

[Rizzo]

He's got a head on his shoulders, Rizzo. I think I can use him. By the way, Travers, I hope you haven't mentioned your deductions to anyone. I wouldn't care to have word get around.

[Business Representative]

What, are you kidding? I look out for Artie Travers. Anybody else wants to get to the top, let him do his own figurine.

[Ed Hurley]

Good boy.

[Rizzo]

That's the spirit.

[Podbean Host]

I like.

[Rizzo]

You've got yourself a job. I have a suite at the Hotel Grayson. Be there tomorrow at 10.

[Ed Hurley]

Yes, sir.

[Rizzo]

Well, that's all.

[Ed Hurley]

See you tomorrow.

[Business Representative]

Yeah, okay. Okay. I'll be safe.

[Ed Hurley]

Right.

[Rizzo]

Tomorrow at 10.

[Larkin]

Mr. Dunlap, how are we going to keep guys in line if you let punks get away with that kind of.

[Rizzo]

Getting away with anything. Rizzo. What you told him and now I'm telling you. He's not getting away with anything. Not even his life.

[Business Representative]

Baby, did I pull a deal tonight? Little Artie is going places.

[Lorna March]

I'm glad to hear it.

[Business Representative]

You bet you're glad. It's sables for you, baby. And for, uh.

[Joey Jonas]

Oh.

[Lorna March]

What's the matter?

[Business Representative]

Maybe I made a mistake.

[Lorna March]

What do you mean? What sort of mistake?

[Business Representative]

Just a minute. I want to turn this corner, see if they do too.

[Lorna March]

They who?

[Business Representative]

Yeah, there they are. We're being followed.

[Lorna March]

Followed? Why? What does it mean?

[Business Representative]

That's who I think it is. It could mean plenty. I gotta shake em.

[Lorna March]

What do you think they want me. They're speeding up too.

[Ed Hurley]

Yeah.

[Business Representative]

Hang on, baby. We gotta take another turn.

[Lorna March]

What's it all about?

[Business Representative]

Never mind. Just watching back. See if they make it.

[Lorna March]

All right. Yes. Here they come. They're gaining. Can't you go any faster?

[Business Representative]

No, I'm giving a roach you'll take.

[Lorna March]

They're still gaining.

[Business Representative]

We'll never make it. Get down on the floor, baby. What are you gonna do? Like I tell you.

[Ed Hurley]

Quick.

[Lorna March]

All.

[Corbett]

Right.

[Podbean Host]

Hello.

[Lorna March]

Hello. I'm looking for Michael Wearing. The Falcon. I was told I could find him here.

[Ed Hurley]

You were told right.

[Podbean Host]

Come in.

[Lorna March]

Thank you. I thought you'd have an office. Isn't it rather unusual for a detective to work out of his apartment?

[Podbean Host]

I'm a rather unusual detective.

[Lorna March]

So I've heard. That's why I'm here.

[Podbean Host]

Well, Lorna, what can I do for you?

[Lorna March]

You know my name?

[Ed Hurley]

Sure.

[Podbean Host]

Lorna March.

[Lorna March]

You are unusual.

[Podbean Host]

Don't give me too much credit, angel. You were all over the front pages.

[Lorna March]

Oh, that's when I was in the hospital. I didn't see.

[Podbean Host]

Yes, but I did. You're not the type to ignore. I'm not that unusual.

[Lorna March]

Thank you. Then you know the police grill me about arts connections. They think I know something that I'm holding back. But it's not so. I only knew Art a short while. I didn't know he was a gangster. If I had, I wouldn't have had anything to do with him. Believe me.

[Podbean Host]

You don't have to sell me.

[Lorna March]

But it's true. He told Me that he was in some sort of manufacturing business.

[Podbean Host]

All right, Lorna. You don't know anything about Art Travers. You don't know who killed him or.

[Ed Hurley]

Why he was killed.

[Lorna March]

That's right. Only the police won't believe me. They think I'm holding back. And now what worries me. Suppose the people who killed Art get the same idea.

[Podbean Host]

You think they might go gunning for you to shut you up?

[Lorna March]

Yes. I don't know what to do. That's why I came to you. I'll pay your fee gladly.

[Podbean Host]

Well, first of all, let's put you where they can't get at you. I'll take you to a hotel, make sure we're not followed. You stay in your room and don't open the door to anyone.

[Lorna March]

But I can't stay locked in a hotel room indefinitely.

[Podbean Host]

No, just till we get things rolling.

[Lorna March]

What things?

[Podbean Host]

Maybe the killers will lose interest in you if we give them something else to shoot at.

[Lorna March]

What for instance?

[Ed Hurley]

Me.

[Corbett]

I'm aside. Sergeant Corbett speaking.

[Podbean Host]

It's your lucky day. Corbett. This is Mike Waring. Goodbye.

[Corbett]

Waring.

[Podbean Host]

Hold it. I want to talk to you.

[Corbett]

I don't want to talk to you. I've already got a headache.

[Podbean Host]

The Art Travers killing.

[Corbett]

By any chance you've been listening at.

[Podbean Host]

Keyholes, naturally, in my profession.

[Corbett]

All right, Waring, what do you want? I got no time for idle chit chat.

[Podbean Host]

I want you to do me a favor.

[Corbett]

I told you I got no time.

[Ed Hurley]

Oh, for this you have.

[Podbean Host]

You'll love it.

[Corbett]

What makes you think so?

[Podbean Host]

It might get me killed.

[Corbett]

All of a sudden I find myself strangely interested. Tell me more.

[Rizzo]

In the Art Travis shooting, police reveal that letters to Travers apartment indicate that shortly before his murders Travers employed private detective Mike Waring, known as the Falcon. Waring is wanted for questioning as to the nature of his work for Travers. It is believed that this may have a direct bearing on the killing. Especially since Waring has disappeared. Since the killing, it is not known whether Waring is in height.

[Podbean Host]

Hello, Joey.

[Joey Jonas]

Mike Waring. Hey, didn't you hear? I mean, well, don't you know the law is looking for you?

[Podbean Host]

That's why I'm looking for you.

[Ed Hurley]

Huh?

[Podbean Host]

Have one on me. Joey. What are you drinking?

[Joey Jonas]

You name it, I'll drink it.

[Podbean Host]

Okay. Bartender, double scotch for my pal.

[Joey Jonas]

Gee, that's. That's pretty swell, Mike. What's cooking? What can I do you for?

[Podbean Host]

I just thought you might let me hole up in your place until things cool off.

[Joey Jonas]

Oh, oh, yeah, yeah, sure, Mike.

[Ed Hurley]

Sure.

[Joey Jonas]

Anytime.

[Podbean Host]

Thanks, Joey. Well, I better get Right up there. The sooner I'm out of circulation, the better. Here, this will take care of your drink.

[Joey Jonas]

Thanks. Hey, just a second. Here's the keys.

[Podbean Host]

Oh, right.

[Joey Jonas]

I'll be up a little later.

[Podbean Host]

All right, Joey.

[Corbett]

So long.

[Joey Jonas]

So long, Mike. Hey, all the rest of the drink, Red. I'll be right back.

[Podbean Host]

Hello?

[Joey Jonas]

Hello, Mr. Rizzo? Yes, Joey Jonas. I was just calling. I. I might happen to know where you could find Mike Waring.

[Rizzo]

Oh, what's it worth?

[Larkin]

Come on up. We'll talk about it.

[Joey Jonas]

Okay, I'll be right over.

[Larkin]

Come in. Joey.

[Joey Jonas]

Yeah, Mr. Rizzo.

[Larkin]

Now, what's this about you knowing where to find worry?

[Joey Jonas]

Well, you see, he comes to me, asked me to help hide him out.

[Larkin]

Oh, he comes to you?

[Joey Jonas]

Yeah, he says. Well, I.

[Rizzo]

Hey, come on.

[Larkin]

What does Waring come to you for?

[Joey Jonas]

I'm trying to tell you. I'm trying to tell you. Hey, don't hit me.

[Larkin]

You're a pal of Wearing's.

[Joey Jonas]

I know him sort of.

[Larkin]

You know him sort of. But he goes to you when he's in a jam.

[Joey Jonas]

Well, I guess he figured that. Well, nobody think about him going to me. If he went to one of his real pals, a friend, you know, maybe. Hey, look, I'm telling you where to find him, ain't I?

[Larkin]

You better.

[Joey Jonas]

Well, doesn't that prove I'm leveling with you?

[Larkin]

All right, Joey, but you said.

[Joey Jonas]

Well, you know, I'm gonna get paid, ain't I?

[Larkin]

We'll talk about that after I find Waring. Where is he? Well, the door first.

[Podbean Host]

Stop it.

[Joey Jonas]

My arm.

[Corbett]

Where's Waring?

[Joey Jonas]

Ow. At my place.

[Ed Hurley]

My place.

[Larkin]

Okay, we'll see.

[Joey Jonas]

Yeah, but don't forget you promised if I told you, you'd give me the dog.

[Larkin]

All right, Joey, turn it off. If worrying's there, you'll be taken care of. After we take care of wearing.

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[Ed Hurley]

Hello?

[Larkin]

Hello, Larkin? This is Rizzo.

[Ed Hurley]

Yeah, Mr. Rizzo.

[Larkin]

Just thought you'd like to know it pays to keep your customers happy.

[Business Representative]

What do you mean?

[Larkin]

Just that. I've got another job for you.

[Ed Hurley]

Oh, it wouldn't be wearing, would it?

[Larkin]

How did you know?

[Ed Hurley]

According to the papers, he was tied in with Travis.

[Larkin]

Yeah. Well, will you take care of it? I know where you can find him.

[Ed Hurley]

You want him to get what Travis got?

[Larkin]

Yeah, but first I want to talk to him, find out how much he knows. I want you to bring him here.

[Ed Hurley]

That's not going to be so easy. A guy like the Falcon, you don't.

[Larkin]

Think you can handle it?

[Ed Hurley]

I didn't say that.

[Larkin]

Then cut the alibis.

[Ed Hurley]

Okay, Mr. Rizzo, I'll bring you Waring. This is Ed Hurley. He again friends? Well, I guess Larkin plans to bring Mike to Mr. Rizzo. All right. Meanwhile, I'd like to bring you an idea. An idea for keeping the whole family pleased whenever they want a delicious snack. Just keep your refrigerator stocked with a glass or two of Craft Cheese and Bacon Spread, one of the nine delicious cheese spreads made by Kraft. Kraft Cheese and Bacon Spread is perfect for snacks because it tastes so wonderful and because it's velvety smooth for easy spreading on crackers or bread. Just wait till you taste this fine blend of mellow, sharp American cheddar cheese and hickory smoked bacon with that tantalizing, sweet, smoked flavor all through it. Mmm. You'll keep coming back for more. And snacks you make with Kraft Cheese and Bacon spread are snacks you can enjoy often. Because like all nine Kraft cheese spreads, Kraft Cheese and Bacon spread is wholesome dairy food made from only the finest ingredients. And for variety, try some of the nine other tempting Kraft cheese spreads. There's sharp old English brand, Roca brand and full flavored Smokele, too. Look for them in the Tulip Design drinking glasses in your choice of four gay colors. And remember, these are America's favorite cheese friends. America's favorites because they're so delicious. So be sure you get the cheese spreads made by Craft. Now back to the Adventures of the pulkin. 20 minutes have passed since Rizzo ordered Larkin to deliver Mike Waring. Now, at the door of Joey Jonas room, Larkin is ready to carry out his mission.

[Larkin]

Who is it?

[Ed Hurley]

Joey set me up.

[Rizzo]

He thought you might be hungry.

[Ed Hurley]

Got a couple of sandwiches for you.

[Podbean Host]

That's what I call a service. Just a second.

[Rizzo]

All right, Whitney.

[Podbean Host]

Hey, I expected the gun, pal. That's why I was ready to jump you.

[Joey Jonas]

Double cross.

[Podbean Host]

No, Joey, he didn't double cross. You double crossed cross me. But I counted on it.

[Ed Hurley]

Yeah, well, I.

[Podbean Host]

You won't do anything, pal. Not for a while.

[Corbett]

All right, Larkin, who gave you your orders?

[Podbean Host]

I want a lawyer.

[Ed Hurley]

He wants a Lawyer.

[Podbean Host]

Well, get him a lawyer.

[Corbett]

Corbett swearing he's just a professional trigger. I want the higher up. He's got to talk.

[Podbean Host]

With your charm, I don't see how he can resist you. But I have a hunch he will. You're wasting your time.

[Corbett]

Well, you got any suggestions? Suggestions? Waring. Yes.

[Podbean Host]

I told you. Get him a lawyer like he asked.

[Corbett]

Believe me, he doesn't want a lawyer.

[Podbean Host]

He says he does now.

[Corbett]

What'll a lawyer do?

[Podbean Host]

Spring him?

[Corbett]

Yeah. Then the mob will rub them out to shut him up in case we want to pick him up again. We're doing them a favor keeping him here. Believe me.

[Podbean Host]

I'll call. But every man to his taste.

[Corbett]

You're such a help.

[Podbean Host]

Now, that's gratitude for you. I bring you the trigger.

[Corbett]

I want the higher ups.

[Podbean Host]

No satisfying some people.

[Corbett]

Like the chief, for instance. He's going to be screaming.

[Podbean Host]

What, in your pretty shell?

[Ed Hurley]

Like earth.

[Podbean Host]

The thought shudders. How's it going, Cobbit?

[Corbett]

Where are you going, Waring?

[Podbean Host]

Your every wish is my command. I'm going looking for higher ups. Hello, Joey.

[Ed Hurley]

Falcon.

[Joey Jonas]

Hey, stay away from me, Mike. Stay away.

[Podbean Host]

Come here, Joey.

[Joey Jonas]

I'm warning you now. Stay away. I'll let you have it with the spear bottle, Joey.

[Podbean Host]

If you're so anxious to give me that bottle, I'll just take it up now.

[Joey Jonas]

Cut it out, Mike.

[Corbett]

Yeah, sure.

[Podbean Host]

As soon as I get this away from you. That's it. All right, Joey. Now we talk.

[Joey Jonas]

Please, Mike, don't be sore.

[Podbean Host]

You sick the gunman on me. And why are you so startled to see me walking around?

[Joey Jonas]

I. I can explain.

[Podbean Host]

All right, explain.

[Joey Jonas]

Well, we wanted it and it's. I. I guess I can't.

[Podbean Host]

As a matter of fact, you don't have to. I expected just what happened.

[Ed Hurley]

Huh? Well, why?

[Podbean Host]

Because I know what a cheap rat you are.

[Joey Jonas]

I suppose you wouldn't believe it.

[Podbean Host]

You're right. I wouldn't. There's no use crying over spill, Gunman Joey. So I'm willing to make a deal.

[Joey Jonas]

What kind of a deal?

[Podbean Host]

I'm willing to forget the gunman, provided you tell me who hired him.

[Joey Jonas]

What if I don't know?

[Ed Hurley]

You do know.

[Podbean Host]

You know plenty about what's cooking in mob circles. That's why I latched onto you in the first place.

[Joey Jonas]

I can't say anything else, Mike. It's. Hey, don't hit me.

[Podbean Host]

I'm not gonna hit you. I'm just gonna explain something to you.

[Joey Jonas]

Explain?

[Podbean Host]

Yeah. You can deny it if you want to, but this is the way I see it. You Tipped off a mob. But I was at your place. They sent around Lockin to get rid of me. But that's just what I counted on. I was waiting for him. Now he's in the jug. Now what do you think the mob thinks about that? They think you double cross them, huh?

[Ed Hurley]

Sure.

[Podbean Host]

Can't you see it? Larkin walked into a trap. You laid the trap.

[Joey Jonas]

No, I didn't do it.

[Podbean Host]

That's the way it looks to them. And they won't sit still for that kind of an act. Now, Joey, I'm not gonna hit you. I'll just leave you for the mob.

[Joey Jonas]

Oh, what am I gonna do?

[Podbean Host]

Well, you could help me round up the mob. Put the finger on the boss. If they're behind bars, they can't touch you.

[Joey Jonas]

Yeah, but if something goes wrong, so what?

[Podbean Host]

You couldn't be any worse off than you are. Think it over, Joanne.

[Joey Jonas]

All right, Mike. Micah. I'll tell you all I know.

[Rizzo]

Stop pacing the floor, Rizzo. You make me dizzy.

[Larkin]

Should have heard from Larkin long ago. Something must have gone wrong.

[Rizzo]

Something probably did. I understand Mike Wearing is pretty sharp, Joey.

[Larkin]

Double crossed me. That's what happened, Mr. Dunlap. Maybe he sold me out to Waring. Now Waring has Larkin to clinch it. You'll get him to talk.

[Rizzo]

What can Larkin say?

[Larkin]

He can tie me to the driver's job. You've got to get to Wearing before he gets to the law.

[Ed Hurley]

How?

[Larkin]

I don't know. But if we don't, Mr. Dunlop, we're sunk.

[Rizzo]

Let's not underestimate the advantages of our method of operation, Rizzo, huh? You're afraid Larkin will talk, but how much does he actually know?

[Larkin]

He knows me.

[Rizzo]

True, but he doesn't know me.

[Larkin]

That's a big help.

[Rizzo]

Perhaps not to you. It is to me.

[Larkin]

Oh, and I don't count, I suppose?

[Rizzo]

Certainly you do. As long as you're an asset. Now perhaps you see why I insisted upon the breakdown in the organization. Larkin knows no one except you. You can name me, but you don't know any of my other lieutenants.

[Larkin]

Who cares about the other lieutenants? I'm thinking about me.

[Rizzo]

Of course. But you see how the setup works. A chain, as it were. All that's necessary is to eliminate one link in the chain, and investigation comes to a dead end.

[Larkin]

So how are we going to eliminate Larkin? Waring's got him.

[Rizzo]

True, Rizzo. Therefore, we're forced to move on to the next link, huh?

[Larkin]

Hey, now wait a minute.

[Rizzo]

Sorry, Rizzo.

[Larkin]

Please, Mr. Dunlop.

[Rizzo]

As long as we take care of the Weakest link.

[Larkin]

I wouldn't talk. You don't have to worry about me.

[Ed Hurley]

Too bad.

[Rizzo]

I have to do this myself. But there's no time and I don't want to risk anything going wrong.

[Ed Hurley]

Look, I won't.

[Joey Jonas]

Hey, Mike, tell me, what good will I do here?

[Podbean Host]

I told you, Joey, it's not what good you'll do being with me. It's what harm you might do if I let you out of my sight again.

[Joey Jonas]

Yeah, but. But Rizzo's gonna be sore.

[Podbean Host]

Let me handle Rizzo.

[Joey Jonas]

Let me get down. I'll wait downstairs.

[Podbean Host]

You'll wait right here.

[Joey Jonas]

Let's go. There's nobody here.

[Podbean Host]

You hope. I hear somebody in there.

[Joey Jonas]

Well, it was just Maybe somebody upstairs.

[Podbean Host]

I don't think so. I heard somebody moving around inside.

[Joey Jonas]

Well, it's funny they don't come then.

[Podbean Host]

Yeah, very funny. Well, Joey, I guess he's not here. Let's go. What's up?

[Ed Hurley]

Shh.

[Podbean Host]

Come on.

[Joey Jonas]

Hey, you gone nuts?

[Podbean Host]

Yeah, sure. All right, Joey, this is far enough.

[Joey Jonas]

What are we doing?

[Podbean Host]

Obviously, visitors aren't welcome. But maybe if we pretend to go.

[Joey Jonas]

Or maybe if we really do go.

[Podbean Host]

Will you stop that?

[Joey Jonas]

What do we do?

[Ed Hurley]

Just.

[Joey Jonas]

Just stand here in the hall?

[Podbean Host]

Yeah, for a minute. If nobody opens the door. Now, we'll have to try something else. Now just be quiet.

[Joey Jonas]

Okay, Here he comes.

[Podbean Host]

Fine. You scared him back.

[Corbett]

What's the matter, Waring? Nobody home, huh?

[Podbean Host]

Corbett, Where'd you come from?

[Corbett]

Larkin finally cracked Sid. Rizzo hired him, so here I am.

[Podbean Host]

Oh, good. There's something going on inside. But hey, where's Joey?

[Corbett]

Joey? That must be the guy who just ducked down the stairs.

[Podbean Host]

I should have known he'd fade the second I turned my back. Well, maybe he doesn't matter for now. Look, we've got to get into Rizzo's. But that's not the kind of door you can break into.

[Corbett]

What's going on?

[Podbean Host]

That's what I'm trying to find out. I knocked at Rizzo's door. Nobody answered. But I could hear someone inside, so I hid and waited. Then somebody opened the door. But before I could see who it was, Joey chirped and the door slammed.

[Corbett]

Door slammed in your face. Should be no new experience to you, Waring.

[Podbean Host]

All right, I'll waltz with you later, Corbett. Right now this calls for a search warrant. And in the settling torch. Now get on it, huh?

[Corbett]

Wearing. From the look of them, we're not going to get much out of Rizzo.

[Podbean Host]

Except a collection of lead. Yeah, no wonder whoever was here didn't Want to let me in? He probably just finished this job. Then while I was talking to you, he cleared out through the window.

[Corbett]

So we're right back where we started.

[Podbean Host]

Well, not exactly. You've got Rizzo.

[Corbett]

What's left of him. Now we've got to get the boy who plugged him.

[Podbean Host]

That's right, Corbett. Well, let's go see Ludovici Caffarello.

[Corbett]

Who is Ludovici Caffarello?

[Podbean Host]

A taxi driver?

[Corbett]

Yeah. What's he got to do with this case?

[Podbean Host]

Nothing.

[Corbett]

Maybe this is the kind of help he gives me.

[Podbean Host]

Okay, so I'll go see Ludovici Caffarello.

[Corbett]

Hold it, Waring. I don't know what gives, but I'm in no mood to take you patting yourself on the back in front of my face if this pays off and I'm out of it. Where does this Carfarello live?

[Podbean Host]

I don't know.

[Corbett]

Gets better and better.

[Podbean Host]

But I know where he works. So if you're coming, let's get moving. We've got work to do.

[Ed Hurley]

This is Ed Herlihy again, friends. And while Mike and Sergeant Corbett go about finding Mr. Coffarello, I'd like to help you find out about the nine most delicious cheese Franti ever tasted. They're the nine famous cheese spreads made by Kraft. There are delightfully mild tasting ones, such as Kraft Pineapple Cheese Spread, Kraft Olive Pimento Cheese Spread, and Kraft Relish Cheese Spread. And there are sharp tasting ones, too, like Roca Cheese Spread, Smokel and Kraft Limburger Cheese Spread. All of them are mighty good to eat. And they're all good for you to eat, too, because they're wholesome dairy foods made from only the finest ingredients for quick, easy snacks and sandwiches. Keep your refrigerator stocked with several of the nine delicious Kraft cheese spreads. Now back to the Adventures of the Falcon. It's an hour and a half since Mike threw the name Ludovici Caprello into the case. Corbett is still wondering if it was a straight, fast one or a curve. Now the Falcon and Sergeant Corbett are waiting in an elaborately furnished living room for the answer while the butler goes to announce them to the master of the house. A moment later, their host appears.

[Rizzo]

Good evening, gentlemen. Which of you is Sergeant Corbett?

[Joey Jonas]

I am.

[Corbett]

Dunlap.

[Podbean Host]

That's the guy, Corbett.

[Rizzo]

What guy am I?

[Podbean Host]

The guy who slammed the door in my face at Rizzo's.

[Rizzo]

When was this?

[Podbean Host]

Couple of hours ago.

[Rizzo]

Tonight. I haven't been out tonight. We can prove you have your word against mine.

[Podbean Host]

Mine and car forellows Who's Car Forello? The taxi driver who drove you here from Rizzo's.

[Rizzo]

When I heard the police wanted to see me, I. I wondered what they wanted.

[Corbett]

Ah, you know better. Come along to headquarters.

[Rizzo]

What charge?

[Corbett]

Suspicion of murder.

[Rizzo]

I hate to disappoint you gentlemen, but I have other plans.

[Corbett]

No, you don't.

[Podbean Host]

No gunplay.

[Corbett]

I don't think.

[Ed Hurley]

Think he will stop Dunlap? Stopper boy.

[Podbean Host]

He's great for going through windows. Didn't even stop to open it.

[Corbett]

See him wearing?

[Podbean Host]

Yeah, he's on the fire escape. All right, Dunlap, that's as far as you go.

[Corbett]

There's his answer.

[Podbean Host]

Now that's a two way answer.

[Corbett]

Get him?

[Podbean Host]

No, he's too close to the building. But I've got him cornered. He can't get out to the stairs.

[Corbett]

Keep him penned there. I'll go down for him.

[Podbean Host]

Yeah, right. He's too flawed. The corporate. Wait a minute.

[Corbett]

What's wrong?

[Podbean Host]

He's taking a gamble. He's going over the rail. He's gonna drop to the ground. It's three floors to solid concrete here. Just a second. I can cover him from out here in the fire escape. Even if. There he goes.

[Corbett]

Watch him wearing.

[Podbean Host]

It's all right, Corbett. I don't think he's going anywhere. He's not getting up, but you better get down there. I'll keep him covered just in case.

[Lorna March]

All right, Mike. So you and the sergeant found Rizzo's body, but then what?

[Podbean Host]

Well, I knew the murderer left the building right after Joey and I got there. He went out the window while I was in the hall and I knew he'd be in a hurry to get out of the neighborhood. He might have taken a taxi. And since the taxi we arrived in was probably still out front.

[Lorna March]

Oh, I see.

[Podbean Host]

Well, you know, they have the driver's identification in the cab. I remember the name because it intrigued me.

[Ed Hurley]

Ludovici Car Forello.

[Lorna March]

So you called the taxi company and asked where you could find Car Forello?

[Podbean Host]

That's right. And he told us he picked up a fare near Rizzos and gave us a description. We went away, he took the fare, gave the desk clerk the description and he said it sounded like Dunlap. And that with a little bluffing, was the end of the line.

[Lorna March]

Do you think Dunlap's the head man of the mob?

[Ed Hurley]

Seems to be.

[Podbean Host]

He's got a busted leg, but he'll be able to talk.

[Ed Hurley]

Yep. Looks like the mob's washed up.

[Lorna March]

And Joey?

[Podbean Host]

Probably on his bicycle heading for Texas.

[Lorna March]

Oh, Poor Joey.

[Podbean Host]

Oh, I wouldn't worry about him.

[Lorna March]

Well, the main thing is I don't have to worry about myself anymore. No, it's no fun having to hide out from gangsters.

[Podbean Host]

Well, still, just to play safe, you better keep a bodyguard with you for a while.

[Lorna March]

You think there's still danger? I thought you said the mob was finished.

[Podbean Host]

It probably is, but why take chances?

[Lorna March]

Well, do you know a bodyguard?

[Ed Hurley]

Me?

[Podbean Host]

Oh, I'd stick real close, Lorna.

[Lorna March]

I'm sure you would.

[Podbean Host]

You'd be well protected.

[Lorna March]

I don't doubt it. There's only one thing that concerns me.

[Podbean Host]

What's that, angel?

[Lorna March]

Who'd protect me from my protector?

[Ed Hurley]

In many parts of the country, winter means ice and snow, dangerous road conditions. And dangerous road conditions may mean a bad accident to you. Or drive extra carefully for safer driving. Do these things. Adjust your car speed to the road and weather. Keep your windshield clear of snow and ice, fog and frost. Use tire chains on snow and ice. Brake slowly to avoid dangerous skidding. Keep well back of the car ahead. Whether you walk or drive, be careful. Remember, an accident doesn't always happen to someone else. The Case of the Bellicose Boxer. The Case of the Bellicose Boxer. That's the title of next week's Adventure of the Falcon. And Mike Waring learns that when some fighters are knocked out, they may also be knocked off. So be sure to listen at the same time next week to another exciting Adventure of the Falcon, brought to you by the Craft 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 Jerome Epstein 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 Sleep next Wednesday evening over most of these stations. In next Wednesday's broadcast, Gildy comes face to face with a 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 Gildersleeve next Wednesday evening over most of these stations. Check your newspaper for time of broadcast. This is Ed Hurley. He's speaking for the Kraft foods company. Hear Mr. Mrs. Blanding's later today than the big show on NBC.