Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio Episode Summary: "The Falcon: The Case of the Talented Texan" Release Date: April 3, 2025

Introduction

"The Falcon: The Case of the Talented Texan" is a gripping episode from the golden era of radio detective stories. Hosted by Choice Classic Radio, this episode features the renowned detective, The Falcon, as he unravels a complex murder case intertwined with love, betrayal, and deception.

The Murder and Initial Investigation

The story kicks off in a small furnished apartment on Manhattan's east side, where Reed Stevens is preparing for work. His wife, Kay Stevens, expresses concern over his prolonged tenure at his current job.

Kay Stevens: "[00:25] ...She's planning to give me the business."

Their conversation reveals underlying tensions. Kay hints at Reed's reluctance to switch jobs despite better offers, suggesting his affection for Mrs. Conway, Reed's superior.

As Reed heads out, tensions escalate between Kay and Reed, culminating in Reed informing Kay that he plans to leave her for Mrs. Conway.

Suspicions and Relationships

The plot thickens when Fred Conway, Mrs. Conway's husband, visits Kay Stevens under the guise of seeking assistance. It's soon revealed that Reed had been romantically involved with Mrs. Conway for five weeks, leading Fred to confront Kay aggressively.

Fred Conway: "[05:30] ...Reed Stevens, that's whose."

Simultaneously, Kay seeks the help of a private detective, Mike Waring, to gather evidence for her impending divorce from Reed. However, as the investigation unfolds, it becomes apparent that Reed has been murdered.

Evidence and Unraveling the Case

Sergeant Corbett and Mike Waring dig deeper into the case. Kay's fingerprints are found on the murder shell, implicating her in her husband's death. However, discrepancies emerge when it's noted that Reed always wore his gun in a shoulder holster, and no gun was found on his body.

Kay Stevens: "[26:03] ...I can't."

This inconsistency leads The Falcon to suspect foul play beyond Kay's intent. A crucial piece of evidence surfaces—a handkerchief containing an empty cartridge shell with Reed's fingerprint, suggesting that Kay might have unknowingly handled it.

Reveal and Conclusion

The Falcon orchestrates a confrontation between the involved parties. It becomes evident that Lois Conway, Fred's wife, had a significant role in Reed's murder. Her motive stems from Reed's affair with her husband, leading her to hire Tex, a professional gunman, to eliminate Reed.

Ed Hurley (The Falcon): "[26:34] ...You just don't seem to understand, Lois."

In a climactic revelation, The Falcon deduces that Lois provided Tex with the hideaway address, exploiting Reed's trust to orchestrate the murder. The evidence, including the thumbprint on the cartridge shell, points directly to Lois Conway as the mastermind behind the plot.

Ed Hurley: "[27:54] ...That's your fault. I went for you the first day I saw you at the club."

The episode concludes with Lois Conway's arrest, vindicating Kay Stevens, and highlighting the intricate web of relationships and deceit that led to Reed Stevens' untimely demise.

Notable Quotes

• Kay Stevens: "[00:25] ...She's planning to give me the business."
  Reveals Kay's suspicions about Reed's loyalty.

• Fred Conway: "[05:30] ...Reed Stevens, that's whose."
  Indicates Fred's knowledge of Reed's affair.

• Ed Hurley (The Falcon): "[26:03] ...I can't."
  Expresses Kay's confusion and innocence.

• Ed Hurley: "[27:54] ...I went for you the first day I saw you at the club."
  Connects Lois Conway to the murder plot.

Conclusion

"The Case of the Talented Texan" masterfully weaves a tale of love, betrayal, and mystery. Through sharp dialogue and intricate plotting, The Falcon unravels the truth behind Reed Stevens' murder, showcasing the timeless appeal of old-time radio detective stories. This episode stands as a testament to the genre's ability to engage and entertain listeners with compelling narratives and unforgettable characters.

Cast:

• Les Damon as The Falcon
• Ken Lynch as Sergeant Corbett
• Supporting Characters: Kay Stevens, Fred Conway, Lois Conway, Mike Waring, Tex

Production:

• Created by: Drexel Drake
• Produced by: Bernard L. Shubert
• Written by: Eugene Wang
• Directed by: Richard Lewis
• Music by: Arlo

Next Episode Preview: "The Case of the Worried Wife" explores the challenges a playboy faces when attempting to settle down, promising another thrilling adventure with The Falcon.

Note: This summary has meticulously excluded advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content sections to focus solely on the narrative and essential dialogues of the episode.