The Falcon: The Case of the Unsilent Butler 03/11/1951

Summary

Summary of "The Falcon: The Case of the Unsilent Butler"

Overview

"The Falcon: The Case of the Unsilent Butler" is an enthralling episode from the classic radio detective series hosted by Choice Classic Radio. Set in the bustling environment of New York's oil industry, the episode weaves a complex narrative involving deceit, murder, and high-stakes intrigue. The protagonist, Mike Waring as The Falcon, navigates through a web of lies to uncover the truth behind a coveted invention and a suspicious death.

Main Characters

• Mike Waring (The Falcon): The suave and astute private detective at the center of the investigation.
• Ed Hurley (Arthur Butler): A business associate seeking the Falcon's expertise to retrieve a valuable invention.
• Jess Stevens: A fellow detective with a complicated relationship with The Falcon.
• Carl Conrad: A competitor in the oil business with dubious intentions.
• Danny Lyons: A former detective with a tarnished reputation, hired to recover the Butler Petroleum Detector.
• Pat Dryden: Johnny Webster's secretary, who becomes a critical witness in the unfolding mystery.

Plot Summary

Initial Conflict and Assignment [01:12 - 06:08]

The episode commences with Arthur Butler approaching The Falcon for assistance. Despite having his private detective license revoked due to the mysterious "Norden affair," Danny Lyons is hired to retrieve the "Butler Petroleum Detector," an invention purported to revolutionize oil well location by eliminating 80% of the guesswork involved. The Falcon expresses skepticism, hinting at deeper issues surrounding the assignment.

Notable Quote:

• Arthur Butler [05:03]: "The man with an imagination, capable of figuring out a method of swindling. Mr. Norton should go far." [04:08]

Rising Tensions and Suspicious Activities [06:14 - 17:55]

As the plot thickens, Danny Lyons arrives late with a forged check, raising suspicions about Carl Conrad's involvement. Lyons exhibits erratic behavior, claiming various disguises to trail Butler, leading The Falcon to question his true motives. The tension escalates when Lyons's car is found abandoned, and Johnny Webster, another detective, is murdered, intensifying the mystery.

Notable Quote:

• Ed Hurley [08:23]: "If everything's on the up and up about this deal, why is Mr. Stevens in such a hurry to leave New York? And why has he had me followed?" [08:14]

Investigation and Revelation [17:56 - 22:43]

The Falcon delves deeper, interrogating Carl Conrad and unraveling the deceptive plot orchestrated by Arthur Butler. It is revealed that Butler orchestrated his own robbery to invalidate the contract and secure the detector, leading to Johnny Webster's untimely death. The Falcon pieces together the timeline and confronts Conrad, exposing Butler's scheme.

Notable Quote:

• Mike Waring [27:05]: "Oh, I'm sorry, but I thought you knew. I was just proving that you killed Johnny Webster." [27:37]

Climactic Confrontation and Resolution [22:36 - 29:35]

In a tense final showdown, Danny Lyons confronts Arthur Butler about the theft, only to be outmaneuvered as Butler denies ownership of the detector. The Falcon connects the dots, realizing Butler's self-sabotage to claim insurance and eliminate competition. The episode concludes with The Falcon outsmarting the antagonists, ensuring justice is served.

Notable Quote:

• Mike Waring [28:34]: "He knew he couldn't break the contract with you. Cause you sued and collected every penny he had. You follow me?" [28:20]
• Mike Waring [29:34]: "Good night, Jed." [29:35]

Key Themes and Insights

• Deception and Betrayal: The episode masterfully explores themes of trust and betrayal, highlighting how personal agendas can lead to catastrophic outcomes.
• Integrity in Investigation: The Falcon's unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth underscores the importance of integrity in detective work.
• Consequences of Greed: Butler's scheme driven by greed serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive nature of avarice.

Conclusion

"The Falcon: The Case of the Unsilent Butler" stands out as a quintessential example of old-time radio detective storytelling. Through its intricate plot and compelling dialogue, it captivates listeners, offering a blend of suspense, drama, and intellectual challenge. The episode not only entertains but also imparts valuable lessons on ethics and the complexities of human nature.

Additional Notes

• Production Credits: The episode was based on stories by Drexel Drake, produced by Bernard L. Shubert, written by Eugene Wang, and directed by Richard Lewis, with music by Arlo Les Damon.
• Cast Highlights:
  • Les Damon as The Falcon
  • Elspeth Eric as Pat Dryden

Conclusion

For enthusiasts of classic detective narratives, this episode offers a rich and engaging experience, showcasing the brilliance of radio storytelling during its golden age. "The Falcon: The Case of the Unsilent Butler" remains a testament to the enduring appeal of mystery and the timeless allure of a skilled detective navigating through layers of intrigue.

Transcript

[Narrator]

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[Mike Waring]

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[Ed Hurley]

Welcome to Choice Classic Radio where we bring to you the greatest old time radio shows like us on Facebook, subscribe to us on YouTube and thank you for [e-mail].

[Mike Waring]

Hello? Yes, this is the Falcon speaking. Oh, Vivian, I'm glad you called. You'll have to pass me by tonight, angel. I'm all tied up with some practical joker. Mm. This boy thinks the only way to get a bang on of life is by using a gun.

[Jess Stevens]

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 unsilent butler. Before we join the Falcon in his latest adventure, I'd like to tell you folks about Kraft's golden Velveeta. Velveeta is such good eating. Just taste that grand rich yet mild cheddar cheese flavor. And Velveeta is so good for you. It's rich in important food values from milk and it's digestible. Velveeta is as digestible as milk itself. For swell tasting snacks, for good hearty sandwiches, for thrifty easy hot dishes, it's smart to keep stocked with Velveeta. Get it tomorrow in the handy half pound package or in the economical two pound loaf. They pasteurized processed cheese food of top quality Velveeta is made only by Kraft. Now the case of the unsilent butler. It's early afternoon in New York and in the swank offices of the Conrad Oil Company, the president of the outfit thumbs through a stack of correspondence. It's quite obvious that Mr. Conrad is a big operator. And if you're wondering how he got there, just watch him in action.

[Arthur Butler]

What is it, Miss Rogers?

[Pat Dryden]

I'm sorry to bother you, Mr. Conrad, but there's a Daniel Lyons here to see you.

[Jess Stevens]

Daniel Lyons?

[Pat Dryden]

He used to be with the Cooper Detective Agency. He says he has a 3:30 appointment.

[Arthur Butler]

Oh, yes, yes, send him in.

[Pat Dryden]

Mr. Conrad will see you now, Mr. Lyons.

[Arthur Butler]

Miss Rogers.

[Pat Dryden]

Yes, sir?

[Arthur Butler]

See that we're not disturbed.

[Danny Lyons]

Mr. Conrad?

[Arthur Butler]

That's right.

[Danny Lyons]

I'm Danny Lyons.

[Arthur Butler]

This is indeed a pleasure, sir. Won't you sit down?

[Danny Lyons]

Thanks.

[Arthur Butler]

You're probably wondering why I sent for you.

[Danny Lyons]

Now that you mention it, I am. Your company has its own staff of troubleshooters.

[Arthur Butler]

Well, the assignment I had in mind calls for peculiar talents and I don't think our boys are equipped to handle it.

[Danny Lyons]

What makes you think I am?

[Arthur Butler]

Weren't you the detective whose license was revoked for your part in the Norden affair?

[Danny Lyons]

Yeah, but I was framed.

[Arthur Butler]

I'm terribly sorry to hear that.

[Mike Waring]

What do you mean?

[Arthur Butler]

The man with an imagination, capable of figuring out a method of swindling. Mr. Norton should go far.

[Danny Lyons]

Could you use someone like that?

[Jess Stevens]

I could.

[Danny Lyons]

Then I'm your boy. What's the pitch?

[Arthur Butler]

Mr. Lyons, I don't know how much you know about the oil business, Very little. Have you any idea how we locate a well?

[Danny Lyons]

I always assumed you just kept digging and hoped for the best.

[Arthur Butler]

Oh, it's a little more scientific than that. However, there's still a great deal of guesswork involved. So much so that last year alone my company lost $6 million sinking new wells.

[Danny Lyons]

Oh, that's tough. But that's one of the gambles of your racket, isn't it?

[Arthur Butler]

Yes, indeed. However, three months ago, an engineer named Robert Butler invented a device that takes practically 80% of the guesswork out of locating oil wells. He called it the Butler Petroleum Detector.

[Danny Lyons]

Gimmick like that ought to be worth a fortune.

[Arthur Butler]

It is.

[Danny Lyons]

Then it seems to me I'd get hold of this Butler character.

[Arthur Butler]

You should give me credit for that much intelligence, sir. But you see, Robert Butler died in an accident two weeks ago.

[Danny Lyons]

What happened to the invention?

[Arthur Butler]

He left it to his brother Arthur, who unfortunately contracted to sell it to an independent prospector named just Stevens before he heard from us.

[Danny Lyons]

What if he did sell it to Stevens? Couldn't you arrange with Arthur Butler to give you a set of plans?

[Arthur Butler]

There are no plans. They were all destroyed in the accident that killed the inventor. The only thing that exists is a 12 inch working model. Need I add, Mr. Lyons? As such, it's extremely valuable.

[Danny Lyons]

What do you call valuable?

[Arthur Butler]

If we got it instead of Stevens, it would be worth $100,000.

[Danny Lyons]

And no questions asked, Mr. Connery.

[Arthur Butler]

And no questions asked, Mr.— Lyons.

[Jess Stevens]

Taxi. Taxi.

[Ed Hurley]

All right, driver, let's go to the. Oh, excuse me a moment. Say, mister. Me? Yeah.

[Danny Lyons]

What's the trouble?

[Ed Hurley]

No trouble. My name's Arthur Butler. I like to make things easy for people.

[Danny Lyons]

Huh?

[Ed Hurley]

I got a date with a fell named Jess Stevens.

[Danny Lyons]

Why?

[Ed Hurley]

I'm supposed to meet him at Mike Warren's apartment at the Belmore.

[Danny Lyons]

What's that supposed to mean to me?

[Ed Hurley]

Well, it should mean something. You've been trailing me ever since Friday. And seeing as how I'm only going to be in town another few hours, I wouldn't want to lose you now. So long. All right, driver, let's.

[Mike Waring]

Hmm.

[Carl Conrad]

Is at the right time, Mike?

[Mike Waring]

More or less.

[Carl Conrad]

Steven, what's keeping our friend Mr. Butler?

[Mike Waring]

Now, relax, Jess. He's only five minutes late. He'll probably be here. What did I tell you? Come in.

[Ed Hurley]

Well, good afternoon, gentlemen.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, hi, Butler. We were just talking about you.

[Ed Hurley]

I'm sorry I'm late.

[Carl Conrad]

That's okay. I just didn't want to miss my plane to San Francisco. I've got to leave in half an hour. Can we get going?

[Ed Hurley]

I don't see why not.

[Carl Conrad]

All right, Mike, suppose you take over.

[Mike Waring]

Well, I don't think there's much for us to do. Did you bring the model of the petroleum detector with you, Butler?

[Ed Hurley]

Yes, sir. I got it right in this grip chained to my wrist.

[Mike Waring]

All right, get your key ready. According to the contract, you would have got $25,000. Stevens gave you 1,000 when the contract was signed. And right here I have his check for the balance.

[Ed Hurley]

Is it certified?

[Mike Waring]

No, but I can assure you it's good.

[Ed Hurley]

How do I know that? Well, this is on a San Francisco check. I'm sorry, gentlemen. It won't do.

[Carl Conrad]

Now, look here, Butler, we made a deal.

[Mike Waring]

Take it easy, Jess. I'll handle this. Listen, Butler, that contract is legal and binding. You try to renege on it.

[Ed Hurley]

Oh, I have no intention of reneging, Mr. Warren. But until I see that $24,000 balance in cash, I'm not turning over this model.

[Mike Waring]

And where can we cash a check this size on Saturday afternoon?

[Ed Hurley]

Well, that's your problem.

[Mike Waring]

Mm. All I can say, Butler, is that you picked an awfully queer time to turn suspicious.

[Ed Hurley]

Maybe I did, but you can't blame me. I don't know you people too well and well, meaning. No offense, sir, but what guarantee have I that Mr. Stevens isn't trying to flim. Flam me?

[Carl Conrad]

Why.

[Danny Lyons]

Why you.

[Mike Waring]

Jess. Easy, easy. What do you mean, Butler?

[Ed Hurley]

That's what I said. If everything's on the up and up about this deal, why is Mr. Stevens in such a hurry to leave New York? And why has he had me followed?

[Jess Stevens]

Followed?

[Mike Waring]

You got a tail on him, Jess?

[Carl Conrad]

Does it help me, Mike? The guy's crazy.

[Mike Waring]

He must be imagining things.

[Ed Hurley]

Butler, don't tell me that. I've seen the same gentleman too often. Yesterday he posed as a bill collector. This morning he was a telephone repair man.

[Mike Waring]

What did he look like?

[Ed Hurley]

He's a heavyset lad. Must weighed about 210 pounds. Brown, curly hair. Oh, and across the bridge of his nose was a small scar.

[Mike Waring]

Sounds like Danny Lyons.

[Jess Stevens]

Lyons? Who's he?

[Mike Waring]

The private detective who recently lost his license for being mixed up in some swindle.

[Ed Hurley]

Now tell me I'm imagining things and I.

[Mike Waring]

Look, Butler, Stevens didn't hire Lions.

[Ed Hurley]

Well, then who did?

[Mike Waring]

I don't know.

[Carl Conrad]

Maybe I can guess.

[Jess Stevens]

Who?

[Carl Conrad]

Carl Conrad.

[Ed Hurley]

Carl Conrad? Who's he?

[Carl Conrad]

Oh, one of my competitors. Listen, Mike, is this man Lyons dangerous enough? Then I want you to leave that model here, Butler.

[Jess Stevens]

You're crazy.

[Ed Hurley]

I'm not letting this out of my sight till I collect that $24,000 I got coming.

[Carl Conrad]

You'll have it Monday morning, just as soon as my bank opens in San Francisco.

[Ed Hurley]

Fair enough. You'll get the detector then.

[Mike Waring]

Well, the least you can do in the meantime is to hire a bodyguard.

[Ed Hurley]

Don't you Worry about me, Mr. Waring. I'd look after myself.

[Mike Waring]

No. Sure. Last man I heard say that was guest of honor at an autopsy last week. All right, Butler. We'll supply the bodyguard.

[Jess Stevens]

Yes?

[Mike Waring]

Is John Webster in?

[Pat Dryden]

Do you have an appointment?

[Mike Waring]

Well, I think he'll see me. Where is he?

[Jess Stevens]

In there. Just a second.

[Mike Waring]

It's all right. I'm an old friend of the family.

[Jess Stevens]

Come back here.

[Mike Waring]

You can't walk.

[Ed Hurley]

You're not.

[Jess Stevens]

Hey, what goes on here?

[Mike Waring]

Hello, Johnny.

[Jess Stevens]

Mike Waring.

[Pat Dryden]

I tried to stop him, Mr. Webster.

[Jess Stevens]

That's okay, Pat. This is the Falcon. We used to play hockey together.

[Pat Dryden]

Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't know how.

[Jess Stevens]

Could you? Sit down, Mike.

[Mike Waring]

Thanks.

[Jess Stevens]

Haven't seen you in months.

[Mike Waring]

How's it going, Johnny?

[Jess Stevens]

Oh, couldn't be better. Right, Pat?

[Pat Dryden]

Oh, yes. Everybody seems to want to hire Mr. Webster.

[Mike Waring]

Well, what about the.

[Jess Stevens]

Oh, the furniture?

[Mike Waring]

Well, I was referring to the lack of it.

[Jess Stevens]

Oh, we Took it out. We ordered a new batch. You know, that modern chrome stuff. Pat thinks it's kind of flashy for a private dick's office, but I did. What do you say, Mike?

[Mike Waring]

Well, I say I'm awfully glad to hear you're doing so well.

[Jess Stevens]

Yeah, I'm working on a case now. That's a humdinger $5,000 fee.

[Mike Waring]

Well, I guess I'll have to find myself another boy.

[Jess Stevens]

What do you mean?

[Mike Waring]

Oh, I had a little routine bodyguarding job, but I could see you wouldn't be interested. Whoa, whoa, whoa.

[Jess Stevens]

Sit down.

[Mike Waring]

No, no, I really gotta go, Johnny.

[Jess Stevens]

Not until I get that job.

[Mike Waring]

But this would only last 48 hours and pay 20 bucks a day.

[Jess Stevens]

That's 40 more than Pat and I saw all week.

[Mike Waring]

I was bluffing, Mike.

[Jess Stevens]

Haven't had a case in months. Do I get yours?

[Mike Waring]

Sure, Johnny.

[Ed Hurley]

Thanks.

[Jess Stevens]

What's the story?

[Mike Waring]

Well, there's a man named Arthur Butler staying at the Belvedere. He'll give you all the dope.

[Jess Stevens]

He the boy you want me to keep an eye on.

[Mike Waring]

Mm, you're not to let him out of your sight for a minute. He's got an oil detector gadget on him that's worth a fortune. You expecting me? Yeah, but I better call him. Tell him you're on your way over.

[Jess Stevens]

Oh, Mike.

[Mike Waring]

Huh?

[Jess Stevens]

It don't work. The phone company and me are feuding.

[Mike Waring]

You mean they're sore cause you don't pay your bills.

[Jess Stevens]

Ain't that ridiculous?

[Mike Waring]

Oh, okay, Johnny. I'll phone from outside.

[Jess Stevens]

There's a booth in the lobby. Yeah, I'll see you along, Pat.

[Mike Waring]

Been nice knowing you.

[Pat Dryden]

Thank you.

[Jess Stevens]

Well, baby, what do you think?

[Pat Dryden]

I don't like it, Johnny.

[Jess Stevens]

Why?

[Pat Dryden]

Don't ask me. I just don't like it.

[Jess Stevens]

Don't be silly, Pat. I got a hunch this is where.

[Mike Waring]

Our luck starts to change on a $40 case.

[Jess Stevens]

Guys have made fortunes in this racket.

[Mike Waring]

Starting with less Podbean.

[Narrator]

Your message amplified.

[Mike Waring]

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

[Narrator]

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[Arthur Butler]

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[Narrator]

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[Mike Waring]

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[Mike Waring]

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[Narrator]

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[Jess Stevens]

I wonder how much that gadget this Butler character owns is worth. Go away.

[Mike Waring]

Look, will you please go away? There's Nobody home.

[Ed Hurley]

That's you, Waring.

[Mike Waring]

Sally. Mr. Waring. Not the goddess I scotch you on. I.

[Jess Stevens]

Don't be funny, huh?

[Mike Waring]

Who is this?

[Ed Hurley]

Arthur Butler.

[Mike Waring]

Oh. Do you realize what time it is? Butler?

[Ed Hurley]

I'm sorry to disturb you, but I wanted to congratulate you and your buddy Mr. Stevens for that cute stunt you pulled.

[Jess Stevens]

Stunt?

[Ed Hurley]

Yeah, Sending around that Johnny Webster.

[Mike Waring]

What's the matter with Johnny?

[Ed Hurley]

Well, that all depends on your point of view. From yours, he couldn't have done much better.

[Mike Waring]

Look, Butler, you're not making sense. Let me talk to Webster. Put him on.

[Ed Hurley]

Well, that's a nice act, fella, but it won't sustain.

[Mike Waring]

What are you talking about?

[Ed Hurley]

Your friend Johnny skipped.

[Mike Waring]

Johnny skipped? What about the model?

[Ed Hurley]

Oh, don't feel badly. He didn't overlook it. He's got it. All right. But I want it back, Warren. And if I don't hear from you within one hour, you'll be hearing plenty from.

[Jess Stevens]

This is Ed Hurley. He again. Friends. Well, it seems that if Mr. Butler doesn't hear from Mike, there'll be trouble. And if you ladies don't hear this idea I have for you this afternoon, you might have more trouble than necessary in planning your Lenten menus. So let me tell you how you can melt Kraft's famous pasteurized processed cheese food, Velveeta for a golden smooth cheese sauce that's perfect with vegetable plates or seafood or rice, or just over toast for a grand Lenten main dish. And this sauce is so easy to make, you just melt a half pound of Velveeta in the top of your double boiler. You don't need to cut it up because Velveeta melts so easily and smoothly without any lumps at all. Then stir in a quarter cup of milk season. And there it is. A cheese sauce that's simply delicious with a grand rich yet mild cheddar cheese flavor. And you know this wonderful Velveeta sauce will add extra nourishment to your meal because Velveeta is so rich in important food values from milk and it's as digestible as milk itself. So it's perfect for all the family, the youngsters and grandma too. Make Velveeta your handy helper mother. Melt it for fine hot dishes, slice it thick for hearty sandwiches, and between meal snacks, get a two pound loaf tomorrow and enjoy America's favorite pasteurized processed cheese food, the one and only Velveeta made by Kraft. Now back to the Adventures of the Falcon. An hour has passed since Arthur Butler informed Mike that Johnny Webster removed not only himself, but the Butler Petroleum detector as well. Now, in his hotel room, Mr. Butler seems strangely annoyed.

[Ed Hurley]

Well, what do you got to say for yourself, Warren? You told me this Johnny Webster was trustworthy. You said with him on the job, I had nothing to worry about.

[Mike Waring]

How did you learn that? He skipped. Butler.

[Ed Hurley]

I woke up at three in the morning and discovered this.

[Mike Waring]

That's the chain you had on the grip, isn't it?

[Ed Hurley]

Yeah.

[Mike Waring]

You always sleep with a chain to your wrist?

[Ed Hurley]

Only since I got to New York. But as you can see, somebody took a pair of wire clippers to it.

[Mike Waring]

Where did you leave Johnny before you went to bed?

[Ed Hurley]

On a sofa. He said he was going to read for a while, or so he claimed.

[Mike Waring]

Now listen, Butler, you've got to believe me. I recommended Johnny Webster in good faith. I'll get back that model for you.

[Jess Stevens]

When?

[Mike Waring]

As soon as I can find him.

[Ed Hurley]

Yeah, well, that may be years. And I can't afford to wait. I'm going to the police.

[Mike Waring]

Warren, you don't want to do that.

[Ed Hurley]

Don't I? You just watch.

[Mike Waring]

Look, you're wrong, Butler. Publicity is the last thing you want. In this case, no use talking.

[Ed Hurley]

I made up my mind. Did you ask your cab to wait?

[Mike Waring]

Nope.

[Ed Hurley]

There's usually one down at the corner.

[Mike Waring]

Seems like you're out of luck.

[Jess Stevens]

Taxi.

[Ed Hurley]

Hey, taxi.

[Mike Waring]

Wait a minute, Butler.

[Ed Hurley]

I said you're not gonna talk me out of this.

[Jess Stevens]

No.

[Mike Waring]

Look over there.

[Ed Hurley]

Look over where?

[Mike Waring]

That Chevy park across the street.

[Ed Hurley]

Well, what about it?

[Mike Waring]

That's Johnny Webster's heap. What? I'm sure of it. If I remember correctly, the rear right fender was off. If this is some kind of a gag we're in, well, what would be the point? What did I tell you? This is Johnny's car, all right. Why do you suppose he left it here?

[Ed Hurley]

Maybe he ran out of gas.

[Mike Waring]

No, what Johnny ran out of was luck. Look behind the front seat.

[Jess Stevens]

What do you mean?

[Mike Waring]

Oh, that's right. He's dead. And judging by that knife on his back, it wasn't due to an overdose of sleeping pills.

[Jess Stevens]

Yes?

[Mike Waring]

I'm looking for a party named Danny Lyons.

[Arthur Butler]

Lyons? I'm sorry, Mr. Waring.

[Mike Waring]

Mike Waring.

[Arthur Butler]

You have the wrong apartment. There's no such person here.

[Mike Waring]

Are you Carl Conrad?

[Jess Stevens]

That's right.

[Arthur Butler]

Come in.

[Mike Waring]

Thank you. I was given to understand that Lyons is working for you.

[Arthur Butler]

Where did you hear that from?

[Mike Waring]

The usual reliable source.

[Arthur Butler]

Well, you know how trustworthy they generally are.

[Mike Waring]

Yes, well, this came from a friend of mine. Man named Jess Stevens. Ever hear of Him?

[Arthur Butler]

Stevens? I don't believe I have.

[Mike Waring]

He's in the oil business too, though not on the scale you people are.

[Arthur Butler]

Oh, of course, he prospects for oil on his own. What we call a wildcatter. And Mr. Stevens led you to believe that this lion's chap was in my employ?

[Mike Waring]

That's right.

[Jess Stevens]

Doing what?

[Mike Waring]

Trying to get hold of the Butler Petroleum detector.

[Arthur Butler]

Believe me, Mr. Waring, I've been in this business 35 years and I never heard of that. Just what is that contraption supposed to do?

[Mike Waring]

Take a lot of the guesswork out of locating new oil fields.

[Arthur Butler]

It must be extremely valuable.

[Mike Waring]

Yes, must be. Someone knifed a private detective named Johnny Webster to get it last night.

[Arthur Butler]

Surely, Mr. Waring, you don't think.

[Mike Waring]

Yes, I do.

[Arthur Butler]

I don't know whether you're aware of it, sir, but you're being very insulting.

[Mike Waring]

If I am, it's entirely intentional.

[Arthur Butler]

Then you can understand under the circumstances, I must ask you to leave.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, sure, but I'll be back.

[Arthur Butler]

You needn't bother, Mr. Waring. First of all, I don't believe any such object as the Butler Petroleum Detector exists.

[Mike Waring]

That's your privilege. Over.

[Arthur Butler]

Just a moment, sir. I wouldn't want you to go off feeling I'm one of those Die hards who doesn't believe there's anything new under the sun.

[Mike Waring]

No, of course not.

[Arthur Butler]

As I said, I don't believe any such invention exists. However, I'd be willing to pay $100,000 to the man who can furnish the necessary proof that I'm wrong. I hope I'll be seeing you, Mr. Waring.

[Pat Dryden]

Where do we go from here, Mr. Waring? Or don't you know?

[Mike Waring]

I'm convinced that Conrad was lying to me, Pat. But I'm sure he doesn't have the Butler Detector yet. He practically offered me a hundred grand to turn it over. On the other hand, I'd swear it came as no surprise to him that your boss was murdered.

[Pat Dryden]

It came as no surprise to me either. I told Johnny I didn't want him to get mixed up in this.

[Jess Stevens]

Why?

[Pat Dryden]

Isn't that obvious?

[Mike Waring]

No. Who could foresee that Johnny would be hurt? This was a routine job as a secretary. You ought to know that.

[Pat Dryden]

I only know he's dead.

[Mike Waring]

Kind of went for the guy, didn't you?

[Pat Dryden]

What do you think?

[Mike Waring]

I think if I never accomplish another thing, I'm going to find his killer. Now, who knew that Johnny got the job to nurse Butler along?

[Pat Dryden]

No one.

[Mike Waring]

Sure there wasn't a leak?

[Pat Dryden]

I'm positive Johnny left This office a couple of minutes after you did.

[Mike Waring]

Did you tell anyone?

[Pat Dryden]

Did I tell anyone?

[Mike Waring]

Inadvertently or otherwise?

[Pat Dryden]

You've got your nerve.

[Mike Waring]

I'm sorry, Pat, but I can't afford to overlook any possibilities. How long had you worked for him?

[Pat Dryden]

That's none of your business.

[Mike Waring]

He couldn't have been paying you very much. If my memory serves me right, he said this was the first case he'd had in months.

[Pat Dryden]

You think you can browbeat me because I'm a woman? I noticed you haven't tried it with Danny Lyons.

[Mike Waring]

I haven't been able to locate Mr. Lyons yet.

[Pat Dryden]

What about your friend Jess Stevens?

[Mike Waring]

What about him?

[Pat Dryden]

Well, it seems to me if you're going to ask personal questions, he ought to take his turn in answering them. How well do you know him?

[Mike Waring]

Well enough. I was in the army with him.

[Jess Stevens]

What does that prove?

[Pat Dryden]

Just because a man wears a uniform, does that make him a solid citizen? Suppose Butler was right.

[Mike Waring]

About what?

[Pat Dryden]

That check Stevens tried to give him for $24,000.

[Mike Waring]

Suppose it was rubber.

[Pat Dryden]

And since Butler wouldn't accept it, Stevens knew that the only way he could get the model was to steal it. And Johnny caught him in the act.

[Mike Waring]

Got it all figured out, haven't you?

[Pat Dryden]

Well, it makes as much sense as any theory I've heard you advance.

[Jess Stevens]

Yes, it does.

[Mike Waring]

Even I'll have to admit it's worth looking into. I'll let you know how I make out.

[Narrator]

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[Carl Conrad]

Hey, bartender. Bartender, let me have a bourbon and water.

[Mike Waring]

There you are, Jess. They told me at the desk I'd find you in the bar.

[Carl Conrad]

Anything new, Mike?

[Mike Waring]

Well, yes. No. What do you say we squat, huh? I've been doing a lot of leg work this morning.

[Carl Conrad]

Okay. You want a drink?

[Mike Waring]

No, I'll sit this one out.

[Carl Conrad]

Say, bartender, serve that drink over here, will you? Well, a story, Mike. How long do you think it'll be before we can locate that model?

[Mike Waring]

You seem more concerned about finding that than nabbing Webster's murderer.

[Carl Conrad]

Okay, if you want an honest answer, yes, I want to get my hands on that detector. To me, that's all that counts.

[Mike Waring]

Well, let me tell you something, Jess. I don't care if I never see that miracle machine again. I'm only interested in one thing.

[Carl Conrad]

I'll bet you are. You've been in touch with Conrad, haven't you?

[Mike Waring]

What's that supposed to mean?

[Carl Conrad]

Just what it sounded like. What'd they offer you?

[Mike Waring]

You accusing me of selling you out?

[Carl Conrad]

All I know is you seem to have forgotten suddenly that you're supposed to be a friend of mine.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah, well, friendship works two ways, Jess. We have a mutual agreement. I can drop you just as you can cancel me out.

[Carl Conrad]

Thanks for reminding me, Mike. I may have to do just that.

[Danny Lyons]

Just a second.

[Arthur Butler]

Hello, lions.

[Danny Lyons]

Mr. Conrad, what are you doing here?

[Arthur Butler]

Well, if that mountain wouldn't come to Mahomet, Muhammad must necessarily go to the mountain.

[Danny Lyons]

Well, I was keeping out of sight.

[Arthur Butler]

You might have at least phoned me, Lion.

[Danny Lyons]

I had nothing to tell you.

[Arthur Butler]

Mike Waring had. He told me that a chap named Johnny Webster lost his life last night trying to prevent a theft from Butler's hotel room.

[Danny Lyons]

So?

[Arthur Butler]

So I'm merely putting two and two together.

[Danny Lyons]

Sometimes you wind up with 22 that way. Let me ask you a question, Mr. Conrad. Suppose I told you I haven't got Butler's whatchamacallit.

[Arthur Butler]

I wouldn't believe you.

[Danny Lyons]

I thought you'd say that. How high will you go for it?

[Arthur Butler]

We made a bargain last week, Lyle.

[Danny Lyons]

Yeah, but the whole thing was strictly spec. Then if I guaranteed to bring it over to your place in an hour, what would it be worth to you?

[Arthur Butler]

I still think the stipulated price of 100,000 was more than ample.

[Danny Lyons]

Will you go 50 more?

[Arthur Butler]

25. And that's my limit.

[Danny Lyons]

Okay, what time you got now?

[Arthur Butler]

Nine o'clock.

[Danny Lyons]

Woody, Robert, start counting it out. I'll see you at 10.

[Jess Stevens]

This is Ed Herlihy again, friends. Sounds like Lyons and Conrad have made a bargain. And if you ladies would like to make a good bargain, get a two pound package of Kraft's famous pasteurized processed cheese food Velveeta from your grocer tomorrow. Because when you buy Velveeta, you're getting the finest quality cheese food your money can buy. Velveeta not only tastes good, but it's mighty good for you because it's rich in important food values from milk. And Velveeta is as digestible as milk itself. So it's a wonderfully handy helper. Anytime you need snacks or sandwiches or a hearty main dish, get a two pound loaf of Velveeta tomorrow. It's the pasteurized processed cheese food of top quality made by Kraft. Now back to the Adventures of the Falcon. An hour has passed since Danny Lyons promised to deliver the Butler petroleum detector to Mr. Conrad now at Mike Waring's apartment. The Falcon is just returning home.

[Danny Lyons]

Come on in, Waring. The water's fine.

[Mike Waring]

What are you doing in my apartment? Lyons, don't ask so many questions.

[Danny Lyons]

Just shut the door like a good boy.

[Mike Waring]

You mind pointing that gun elsewhere?

[Danny Lyons]

Don't tell me it makes you nervous.

[Mike Waring]

That's very. You have no idea how easy those things go off.

[Danny Lyons]

What makes you think I don't?

[Mike Waring]

Well, I assumed you preferred knives.

[Danny Lyons]

What kind of a crack is that?

[Mike Waring]

I was thinking of Johnny Webster.

[Danny Lyons]

Now listen, Waring, don't get me any more annoyed than I am.

[Mike Waring]

Now.

[Danny Lyons]

I made an appointment for 10 o'clock and it's five after already.

[Mike Waring]

That's too bad.

[Danny Lyons]

Yeah, I phoned my party a couple of minutes ago and he's getting real impatient.

[Mike Waring]

Well, don't let me keep you fell in.

[Danny Lyons]

You won't. Where's the thingamajig?

[Mike Waring]

You mean the Butler Petroleum detector?

[Danny Lyons]

Yeah.

[Mike Waring]

I don't know. And what's more, I don't care.

[Danny Lyons]

Well, I care plenty. So open up.

[Mike Waring]

Waring. Oh, careful, friend. I just had the suit pressed.

[Danny Lyons]

Now listen, I never liked you and I wouldn't need much excuse to part your hair with this cannon. So let's not have any smart answ, you understand?

[Mike Waring]

Well, I just can't help it. I used to be a quiz kid. Let go.

[Jess Stevens]

Come on, lions.

[Mike Waring]

Drop it.

[Danny Lyons]

I'll drop it wearing right where it.

[Jess Stevens]

Does the most good. Wear it.

[Mike Waring]

Wear it. Cut it out, Butler.

[Ed Hurley]

You all right?

[Mike Waring]

How can I tell with you slapping me silly?

[Ed Hurley]

I'm sorry. Can I get you anything?

[Mike Waring]

Yeah. You wouldn't happen to have a spare head on you?

[Ed Hurley]

I'm afraid not. What happened?

[Mike Waring]

Well, it'll take too long to tell you. How'd you find me?

[Ed Hurley]

I came up to see if you had any more information.

[Mike Waring]

What about the police?

[Ed Hurley]

There's nothing new there.

[Mike Waring]

You know if they've spoken to Pat Dryden yet?

[Jess Stevens]

Pat Dryden?

[Ed Hurley]

Who's he?

[Mike Waring]

It's a she. She was Johnny Webster's secretary.

[Ed Hurley]

What's she got to do with this?

[Mike Waring]

Well, she's a gal with plenty of ideas.

[Ed Hurley]

Hey, is she hooked up with Stevens? Cause I'm convinced he's the boy I'm after. I'll bet you anything you want he killed Webster and stole my model.

[Mike Waring]

Now look, Butler.

[Ed Hurley]

Don't misunderstand me, Warren. I don't think you had anything to do with it.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, thanks. What time have you got?

[Ed Hurley]

1030. Why?

[Mike Waring]

Because I've got a hunch. And with a little luck, I may Be able to wrap this whole thing up in a couple of minutes.

[Ed Hurley]

Who you calling?

[Mike Waring]

Carl? Conrad.

[Ed Hurley]

You're barking up the wrong tree.

[Mike Waring]

I've been riding a Merrick around for the past 24 hours. It's time I got lucky and caught the gold ring.

[Jess Stevens]

Hello?

[Mike Waring]

Hello? That you, Conrad?

[Jess Stevens]

Yes.

[Mike Waring]

Mike Waring.

[Arthur Butler]

I have nothing to say.

[Mike Waring]

Don't hang up, Conrad. You'll be sorry. Remember that proposition you made me this afternoon?

[Jess Stevens]

No.

[Mike Waring]

All right, I'll refresh your memory. You offered me $100,000 for the working model of the Butler Petroleum Detector.

[Arthur Butler]

I'm no longer interested, Mr. Waring.

[Jess Stevens]

What I don't care to buy, I'll.

[Mike Waring]

Sell it for 75.

[Arthur Butler]

I guess there's only one way to convince you I'm not interested.

[Mike Waring]

Hello? Conrad?

[Jess Stevens]

Conrad?

[Mike Waring]

He hung up.

[Ed Hurley]

Or get the number back.

[Mike Waring]

There's no need to do that. I proved my point.

[Ed Hurley]

Oh, what was it?

[Mike Waring]

Oh, I'm sorry, but I thought you knew. I was just proving that you killed Johnny Webster.

[Carl Conrad]

The one thing I can't decide, Mike, is just who owes whom an apology.

[Mike Waring]

I suppose we call Liana's even. Jess, we both made mistakes.

[Carl Conrad]

You sure you didn't make one in turning Arthur Butler over to the police?

[Mike Waring]

Oh, no, there's no question about that. Butler killed Johnny all right.

[Jess Stevens]

Why?

[Mike Waring]

Well, to convince us that the detector had been stolen from him when it never had been.

[Carl Conrad]

But why should a man steal from himself?

[Mike Waring]

No reason, except he could make a very handsome profit thereby.

[Carl Conrad]

I don't get it.

[Mike Waring]

You know that contract you had with Butler?

[Carl Conrad]

Yes.

[Mike Waring]

Well, after Butler signed it, Conrad offered him more for the model. But by then it was too late. Butler knew he couldn't break the contract with you. Cause you sued and collected every penny he had. You follow me?

[Carl Conrad]

I think so. Is that why Butler refused to accept my check?

[Mike Waring]

Sure. He knew it was good. He just wanted to stall. That's when he decided on this brilliant scheme of robbing himself.

[Jess Stevens]

Hmm.

[Carl Conrad]

That was the only way he could weasel out of the contract.

[Mike Waring]

Now you've got it. The Butler Petroleum Detector was unique. If it was stolen, there was nothing you could do about it. He couldn't ask him to turn over the plans because none existed.

[Carl Conrad]

I still don't see why he killed Johnny.

[Mike Waring]

Well, he had to Webster on the scene every minute of the time. Butler's story of the theft would never stand up. But this way, with Johnny dead, looked even better.

[Carl Conrad]

Yeah.

[Jess Stevens]

Yeah.

[Carl Conrad]

But how did you learn the truth?

[Mike Waring]

At 10 o'clock tonight, Conrad was ready to buy the model from Lyons Alliance. Didn't have it. Otherwise he wouldn't have come to my place. And he couldn't have gotten it from me because I never had it to begin with.

[Carl Conrad]

So?

[Mike Waring]

So when I phoned Conrad just half an hour later, he was no longer interested in the model. Not at any price. Well, that convinced me that Conrad already had it. The man doesn't cool off like that. So the only one he could have bought it from was Butler. Once I hit on that, the rest was easy. I see.

[Jess Stevens]

Yes.

[Mike Waring]

Simple enough now. But we all should have realized it.

[Jess Stevens]

Right at the beginning.

[Mike Waring]

Why, you don't know your detective stories. In practically all of them, it's always.

[Jess Stevens]

The butler who did it.

[Mike Waring]

Good night, Jed.

[Jess Stevens]

There comes a time in the life of every homemaker when she has to fix a dinner fast. And that's when Kraft Dinner is such a help. You see, in just seven minutes cooking time, Kraft Dinner makes delicious macaroni and cheese. Wonderful tender macaroni with fine cheese flavor all through. Just like I said, in only seven minutes cooking time. That's because every package of Kraft Dinner gives you a special quick cooking macaroni. And just the right amount of Kraft grated for that grand cheese flavor. So tomorrow, in a couple of packages of Kraft Dinner, the Case of the Witty Widow. The Case of the Witty Widow. That's the title of next week's Adventure of the Falcon, when Mike Waring learns that some women use guns on their men folk only because they have scruples about divorce. 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 a famous character created by Drexel Drake, produced by Bernard L. Shubert, written today by Eugene Wang and directed by Richard Lewis. Music was by Arlo Les Damon was starred as the Falcon, with Elspeth Eric as Pat. 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 an hilarious problem and solves it in a way that will keep you laughing for days. Remember the show, the time of 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. Enjoy Phil Regan's camp show today and remember Tallulah's big show on NBC.