The Falcon: The Case of the Unwelcome Wife 05/27/1951

Summary

The Falcon: The Case of the Unwelcome Wife

Episode Overview
The Falcon: The Case of the Unwelcome Wife is a riveting episode from the Golden Age of Radio, featuring the sharp-witted detective Mike Waring, known as the Falcon. Set against the backdrop of mid-20th century New York, the story weaves a complex tale of deceit, betrayal, and redemption. This detailed summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting key discussions, insights, and the ultimate resolution of the mystery.

---

Setting the Scene

The episode opens in the bustling atmosphere of Club 19, a swanky New York bar managed by Richie Wayne. Richie, portrayed as a charismatic and well-connected individual, oversees the club with an air of proprietorship despite not owning it outright.

[02:30]
Vince Castell: "You fellas getting everything you want?"

[02:32]
Richie Wayne: "Couldn't be better, boys."

This interaction establishes the camaraderie among the club's regulars and hints at Richie’s influential position within this social circle.

---

Introduction of Conflict

The tranquility at Club 19 is disrupted when Vince Castell, a stern and authoritative figure, confronts Richie with alarming news.

[03:02]
Bruce Chaney: "Man, I treated like my own son?"

[03:18]
Bruce Chaney: "They tell me I'm $90,000 overdrawn. Now, how do you suppose that happened?"

Richie is accused of financial misconduct, revealing that Vince Castell is severely overdrawn, pressure mounting Richie to resolve this dire situation within 48 hours to avoid severe repercussions.

---

Rising Action: Meeting June Dennison

Amidst this turmoil, June Dennison enters the scene, portrayed as a captivating and enigmatic woman. Richie’s interaction with June becomes a pivotal turning point.

[04:04]
June Dennison: "Richie."

[04:12]
June Dennison: "But, darling, I've got company."

The arrival of June introduces a femme fatale element, complicating the narrative and deepening the intrigue surrounding Richie’s predicament.

---

The Marital Twist

In an unexpected twist, Mike Waring, the Falcon, becomes entangled in a convoluted marital scheme orchestrated by June Dennison.

[08:25]
Mike Waring: "Now, how do you do? My name is Mike Waring."

[09:11]
June Dennison: "Well, I imagine you've come up here to see about Richie Wayne."

June swiftly manipulates the situation, leading Mike to unknowingly marry her under false pretenses, thereby entangling him further into the web of deceit.

[15:07]
June Dennison: "Our marriage. Oh, darling, you were so masterful."

This fraudulent marriage serves as a strategic move to shield June and her accomplices from legal repercussions, complicating Mike’s investigation.

---

Confrontation and Violence

The plot thickens as Vince Castell takes matters into his own hands, leading to a dramatic confrontation involving violence.

[18:08]
Vince Castell: "Hello? Is that you, Mike?"

[22:46]
Mike Waring: "Take it easy, Charlie. You're gonna be all right."

The involvement of Discount Charlie, an unscrupulous character, escalates the tension, culminating in a physical altercation where Charlie is shot, and the true nature of the conspiracies is unveiled.

---

The Investigation and Resolution

Detective Waring meticulously pieces together the puzzle, unveiling the layers of betrayal and manipulation orchestrated by the antagonists.

[26:41]
June Dennison: "I've really got a brilliant husband. What gets me is how you knew that the note Richie left was a phony."

[26:50]
Mike Waring: "Had to be, Angel. It was obviously written before the attempt on Charlie's life. Charlie killed Richie Wayne and Bruce Cheney."

Through sharp deductive reasoning and uncovering inconsistencies, Mike exposes Discount Charlie as the mastermind behind the fraudulent activities, revealing his motives rooted in financial desperation and personal vendettas.

---

Conclusion

In the climactic resolution, Mike Waring confronts the culprits, ensuring justice is served and restoring order. The episode wraps up with a reflective message on responsibility and ethical conduct, subtly infused with a traffic safety PSA.

[28:21]
June Dennison: "Are you no."

[28:22]
Mike Waring: "Good. If you're so set on getting married, I'll be waiting."

The Falcon’s triumph underscores the timeless appeal of classic detective narratives, blending suspense, drama, and intellectual prowess.

---

Notable Quotes

• Mike Waring: "Would you mind very much if we traded glasses?"
  [08:12]

• June Dennison: "You really think so?"
  [05:31]

• Discount Charlie: "You know what, Mike? I don't think Richie did commit suicide."
  [25:56]

• Mike Waring: "I don't know how long our marriage is going to last, June, but I can see now it's going to be exciting."
  [17:59]

---

This episode masterfully blends intricate plotting with dynamic character interactions, offering listeners a captivating journey through deception and detective work. Mike Waring's unwavering pursuit of the truth exemplifies the quintessential detective archetype, making The Falcon: The Case of the Unwelcome Wife a standout installment in the realm of old-time radio mysteries.

Transcript

[Mike Waring]

Welcome to Choice Classic Radio where we.

[Ed Herlihy]

Bring to you the greatest old time.

[Richie Wayne]

Radio shows like us on Facebook, subscribe.

[Mike Waring]

To us on YouTube and thank you for [e-mail] hello? Yes, this is the Falcon speaking. Oh, Constance, I'm glad you called. Now you'll have to call me out tonight, angel. I've got to prevent a murder. Yes, and since I don't know who's behind it all, I may have to try A Shot in the Dark.

[Richie Wayne]

This is Ed Herlihy, 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 bestselling novel. Then you saw him in his thrilling motion picture series. Now join him on the air when the Falcon solves the case of the unwelcome wife. In just a moment, we'll bring you the latest adventure of the Falcon. But first, just a word about the latest addition to the craft family of fine foods. Craft salad oil. If you haven't yet tried this new Kraft salad oil, you've really been missing something. For craft salad oil is more than just a new oil. The first ever offered for your home use by the makers of all those other wonderful craft salad dressing products. It's a new kind of oil, a lighter bodied salad oil that blends quickly and perfectly with other ingredients. Yes, lighter bodied, because craft salad oil is not just refined, it's super refined by a special process created by Kraft. Try this new lighter bodied, super fine craft salad oil in your homemade salad dressings. You're cooking, you're baking. You know it's good because it's super fine by Kraft. Get some tomorrow at your groceries. And now, the case of the unwelcome wife. It's early Sunday evening in New York, and in the Swank Club 19, a young man named Richie Wayne gazes around the bar with a proprietary. Interesting. And proprietary is the word for it. For if Richie doesn't exactly own the place, he manages it. Which is the next best thing.

[Vince Castell]

You fellas getting everything you want?

[Discount Charlie]

Yeah, you bet. Richie, how are things by you?

[Richie Wayne]

Couldn't be better, boys. Oh, Joe.

[Vince Castell]

Take care, my friend.

[Mike Waring]

Excuse me, Mr. Wayne.

[Vince Castell]

What is it, Marty?

[Mike Waring]

Mr. Castell wants to see you.

[Vince Castell]

I can't right now.

[Richie Wayne]

I'm busy.

[Mike Waring]

The boss said it was important. Okay.

[Vince Castell]

Look after things. I'll be right back. Hi, Jack. Tommy. How you doing?

[Richie Wayne]

Yes.

[Vince Castell]

Hello, Vince.

[Bruce Chaney]

Oh, come in, Richie.

[Richie Wayne]

Thanks.

[Vince Castell]

Marty said you wanted to see me.

[Bruce Chaney]

Mm. I've got bad news for you, Ken.

[Vince Castell]

Why? What's the matter?

[Bruce Chaney]

What would you say if I told you that one of my most trusted men had let me down? Man I treated like my own son?

[Richie Wayne]

Who?

[Bruce Chaney]

You, Richie.

[Vince Castell]

What are you talking about?

[Bruce Chaney]

I dropped in at the bank today.

[Discount Charlie]

Oh, you should have.

[Vince Castell]

Should have let me go.

[Bruce Chaney]

That was my mistake. I've been letting you go too often. They tell me I'm $90,000 overdrawn. Now, how do you suppose that happened?

[Vince Castell]

Listen, Vince, I can explain.

[Bruce Chaney]

I'm not interested. Richie. All I want is my money.

[Vince Castell]

Look, you don't understand.

[Bruce Chaney]

I understand. I trusted you and you let me down. That hurts, Richie. And if you don't get that Money Back in 48 hours, it's going to hurt you a lot more.

[June Dennison]

Richie.

[Vince Castell]

Hello, June. How are you?

[June Dennison]

Fine. Let me take your coat.

[Vince Castell]

No, no, I can't stay long, June. I've got to talk to you.

[June Dennison]

But, darling, I've got company.

[Richie Wayne]

Who? I guess she means me.

[Vince Castell]

What are you doing here, Bruce?

[June Dennison]

Now, now, Richie.

[Richie Wayne]

I'm afraid your friend doesn't like me, June. No, I don't. Get out.

[Mike Waring]

I thought this was her apartment.

[June Dennison]

Maybe you better go, Bruce. I'll call you later, okay?

[Mike Waring]

How long, Richie?

[Richie Wayne]

No hard feeling.

[Vince Castell]

Go on, beat it.

[Richie Wayne]

You're the boss. Good night, Jules.

[June Dennison]

Good night, Bruce.

[Vince Castell]

What was he doing here?

[June Dennison]

Now, look, darling, let's get one thing straight. This is my place.

[Vince Castell]

You promised me you'd never see him again.

[June Dennison]

Did I?

[Richie Wayne]

Yes.

[June Dennison]

And I guess I just can't be trusted.

[Vince Castell]

Joan, let's. Let's not fight. I'm in enough trouble as it is.

[June Dennison]

What do you mean?

[Vince Castell]

Vince discovered that I've been forging checks.

[June Dennison]

What?

[Vince Castell]

Well, how do you think I was able to give you the ring and the bracelet and all the other junk?

[Richie Wayne]

Yes.

[June Dennison]

You know, I often wondered about that.

[Vince Castell]

Of course, couldn't buy that on my salary.

[June Dennison]

So you've been dipping in the till.

[Vince Castell]

Listen, June, I. I hate to ask you this, but.

[June Dennison]

You want me to turn back everything you gave me?

[Mike Waring]

Yeah.

[Vince Castell]

I probably could raise 70,000 on the stuff.

[June Dennison]

No, darling, 50.

[Vince Castell]

How do you know?

[June Dennison]

I've already sold it.

[Mike Waring]

What?

[June Dennison]

The jewels you saw me wearing were copied.

[Vince Castell]

Where's the money?

[June Dennison]

Oh, I found a better investment.

[Vince Castell]

June, you gotta let me have it.

[June Dennison]

Don't be ridiculous, Richie.

[Vince Castell]

But you don't understand. Vince will kill me if I don't get it back.

[June Dennison]

You really think so?

[Discount Charlie]

Of course.

[June Dennison]

Well, in that case, all I can say.

[Vince Castell]

You let me have the money.

[June Dennison]

No. It was nice knowing you, dear. Too bad it had to end like this.

[Mike Waring]

Second.

[Richie Wayne]

Take it easy, would You?

[Discount Charlie]

I am, Mike.

[Mike Waring]

If it isn't discount Charlie.

[Discount Charlie]

Yeah, that's what it is. Can I come in?

[Mike Waring]

What's the password? I can get it for you wholesale advance, friend.

[Discount Charlie]

Thanks.

[Mike Waring]

Sit down, Charlie.

[Richie Wayne]

Yeah.

[Discount Charlie]

Don't mind if I do.

[Mike Waring]

How's business?

[Discount Charlie]

Oh, swell, swell.

[Richie Wayne]

Good.

[Mike Waring]

Cigarette?

[Discount Charlie]

Yes. Oh, incidentally, Mike, how much you pay in a cart?

[Mike Waring]

$1.90.

[Richie Wayne]

Why?

[Discount Charlie]

I can get a play for 180.

[Mike Waring]

Well, I'll keep you in mind, Charlie. But you didn't come here for that.

[Richie Wayne]

No?

[Discount Charlie]

No. I got a proposition for you, Mike.

[Mike Waring]

What do you mean?

[Discount Charlie]

Well, I got a case for you. There ought to be a very nice fee in it. Less, of course, my usual small cut for steering the business. Do you, uh.

[Richie Wayne]

What's the matter?

[Mike Waring]

I don't split fees.

[Discount Charlie]

All I ask is 10%.

[Mike Waring]

I wouldn't give you five.

[Discount Charlie]

I'll take two and a half.

[Mike Waring]

Sorry, I'm not interested.

[Discount Charlie]

You sure?

[Mike Waring]

Positive.

[Discount Charlie]

Well, that raises a very delicate point, Mike.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, yeah?

[Discount Charlie]

Yeah. You see, the guy was coming to you anyway.

[Mike Waring]

You little chisel, he. Where you going?

[Discount Charlie]

He's waiting in the hall. Hey, Richie.

[Richie Wayne]

Want me, Charlie?

[Discount Charlie]

Yeah. You might as well come in now, Mike. I want you should meet a very swell fella. Richie Wayne.

[Mike Waring]

How do you do?

[Vince Castell]

Heard a lot about you, Mr. Waring.

[Mike Waring]

I've heard a couple of things about you.

[Discount Charlie]

Well, now that we're one happy family, Richie, I want you should tell Mike your problem.

[Vince Castell]

Not very involved. Waring. I work for Vince Castell.

[Mike Waring]

I know. You managed the Club 19 for him.

[Vince Castell]

That's right. Well, a little while ago I needed some money.

[Mike Waring]

And you helped yourself to some of Vince's.

[Vince Castell]

Yeah.

[Mike Waring]

What did you do?

[Richie Wayne]

Forged checks.

[Vince Castell]

$90,000 worth.

[Mike Waring]

Now, I suppose Vince threatens to blow a whistle.

[Vince Castell]

Not exactly. He gave me 48 hours to get the dough up. If I can't by that time, I don't think he'll bother going to the ta.

[Mike Waring]

What happened to the money?

[Vince Castell]

Bought some jewelry for my fiance.

[Discount Charlie]

Only this doll does not happen to be his fiance. She's a grifter named June Dennison.

[Mike Waring]

June Dennison?

[Discount Charlie]

Yeah. Yeah, she's working a con game with a character named Bruce Chaney.

[Vince Castell]

What do you say, Warren?

[Discount Charlie]

You think you can get the moolah back for Richie?

[Mike Waring]

I can try. Where does this June Dennison live?

[Vince Castell]

She's got an apartment at the Stratford Arms.

[Mike Waring]

Okay, I'll look her up.

[Discount Charlie]

Be careful, Mike.

[Mike Waring]

Why, Charlie, I didn't dream you cared.

[Discount Charlie]

I'm not kidding. I noticed, Dar. She's as sharp as a razor and just as Dangerous. Watch it when she starts working on your neck.

[June Dennison]

Yes.

[Mike Waring]

Now, how do you do? My name is Mike Waring.

[June Dennison]

Come in.

[Mike Waring]

Thanks. I'm looking for a June Dennison.

[June Dennison]

Now isn't that a coincidence? That just happens to be my name.

[Mike Waring]

Well, well, looks like I hit the jackpot.

[June Dennison]

Just think, it only cost you a dime. Or did you come by cabin?

[Mike Waring]

You know, June, I wouldn't be surprised if we got along real fine.

[June Dennison]

Oh, I'm sure of that, Mike.

[Mike Waring]

And that Mike proves it.

[June Dennison]

You don't think I'm being forward?

[Mike Waring]

No, not at all. You know, this is all very funny. You invite a strange man into your apartment and you never once ask what he wants.

[June Dennison]

Maybe I can guess.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, mind reader.

[June Dennison]

You're no stranger to me, Mr. Waring. I understand you're one of the best private detectives in New York.

[Mike Waring]

Tell me more.

[June Dennison]

Well, I imagine you've come up here to see about Richie Wayne.

[Mike Waring]

That's right. How about it?

[June Dennison]

How about what?

[Mike Waring]

At 90 grand, why not give it back? You know you're going to have to anyway.

[June Dennison]

Oh, I'd love to, darling, for your sake. But unfortunately I've got a little partner, Bruce Chaney. And I don't think Bruce would approve of my turning back the money. Not after we worked so hard for it.

[Mike Waring]

Well, let me worry about Bruce.

[June Dennison]

All right, Mike, Anything you say.

[Mike Waring]

You mean you'll refund the money?

[June Dennison]

With the great falcon on my trail, what else can I do?

[Mike Waring]

I don't get it.

[June Dennison]

Oh, darling, you're so suspicious. You see, I've got nothing up my sleeve.

[Mike Waring]

Nothing but a lovely arm.

[June Dennison]

Well, shall we drink to our bargain?

[Mike Waring]

Why not?

[June Dennison]

I'll be back in just a moment.

[Mike Waring]

It'll seem like a year.

[Ed Herlihy]

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[June Dennison]

Am I as good as my words?

[Mike Waring]

Oh, much better.

[June Dennison]

Here's your drink.

[Mike Waring]

Just a moment. June. Yes? Would you mind very much if we traded glasses?

[June Dennison]

But why, darling?

[Mike Waring]

It's an old family custom.

[June Dennison]

You know, Mike, you're pretty cute.

[Mike Waring]

You ought to see me do card tricks. Well, shall we switch?

[June Dennison]

You insist?

[Mike Waring]

I insist. Ah, let's see you poured down your health, darling. Drink hearty.

[June Dennison]

Well, I'm still alive.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah. I guess I owe you an apology.

[June Dennison]

Then why not drink to me?

[Mike Waring]

No sooner said than done. Here's to a beautiful friendship. June. Hey, that's pretty potent stuff.

[Discount Charlie]

A bit of pack square.

[June Dennison]

Why, Mike, what's the trouble?

[Mike Waring]

All of a sudden I feel dizzy. I.

[June Dennison]

Your imagination, darling.

[Mike Waring]

Why you little.

[June Dennison]

Wearing, wearing. Ah, you poor darling. You poor, poor SAP.

[Richie Wayne]

Hello?

[June Dennison]

Hello, Bruce?

[Discount Charlie]

Yes.

[Richie Wayne]

June Waring show up as predicted. What happened?

[June Dennison]

He came, he saw and I conquered.

[Richie Wayne]

Good for you, baby.

[June Dennison]

Oh, it was nothing, Bruce. I guess I'm what they call a femme fatale.

[Richie Wayne]

How long has he been out now?

[June Dennison]

About 10 minutes.

[Richie Wayne]

Well, he's good for three hours. That ought to give us enough time. You know what to do.

[June Dennison]

Just follow your instructions.

[Mike Waring]

That's right.

[Discount Charlie]

Think you can handle it?

[June Dennison]

No. Leave it to me.

[Discount Charlie]

Bruce.

[June Dennison]

As far as Mike Waring is concerned, I'm a knockout.

[Richie Wayne]

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[June Dennison]

It's super fine.

[Richie Wayne]

Try lighter bodied. Super fine Kraft salad oil tomorrow. Look for the bottle with the beautiful label. Now back to the Adventures of the Falcon. Several hours have passed since Mike Waring paid his visit to June Dennison, and the young lady in question swept him off his feet. Of course, she had a little help. It came in a bottle labeled Mickey Finn. Now, as we find the couple.

[Mike Waring]

All right. All right, June, you can turn off the water now.

[June Dennison]

Don't you think you oughta soak your head a little longer, Mike?

[Mike Waring]

No.

[June Dennison]

Oh, but, darling, you'll feel better.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, I feel dandy now.

[June Dennison]

Oh, I just can't understand what happened. Where have you been eating lately?

[Mike Waring]

Obviously in the wrong places. Where'd you get that? Mickey.

[June Dennison]

Mickey?

[Mike Waring]

The one you slipped in my drink.

[June Dennison]

Oh, darling, how can you say such a thing? We were celebrating, and you overindulged.

[Mike Waring]

I might buy that, June, Only I had nothing to celebrate.

[June Dennison]

Now, Mike, how can you speak that way about our marriage?

[Mike Waring]

Of what?

[June Dennison]

Our marriage. Oh, darling, you were so masterful.

[Mike Waring]

You kidding?

[June Dennison]

Why, Mike, you couldn't possibly have forgotten so soon. Would you like to see the wedding license?

[Mike Waring]

I'd like nothing better.

[June Dennison]

Here you are.

[Mike Waring]

Well, I'll be a dirty name.

[June Dennison]

That makes me Mrs. Dirty Name.

[Mike Waring]

All right, June, the comedy's over. What's this all about, sweetheart?

[June Dennison]

I told you. It was love at first sight.

[Mike Waring]

Plus the fact that with me married to you, I couldn't very well accuse you of taking Richie Wayne to the tune of 90 grand.

[June Dennison]

You see my point, Mike? You wouldn't want your wife known as a common criminal.

[Mike Waring]

Whose idea was this? Bruce Cheney's.

[June Dennison]

He was here with the justice of the peace while you were, shall we say, out.

[Mike Waring]

Didn't the justice comment on my condition?

[June Dennison]

Oh, no. He was a friend of Bruce's.

[Mike Waring]

That was very smart of Bruce. I'd like to congratulate him.

[June Dennison]

Don't bother, dear. Just send him a wire.

[Mike Waring]

No, no, no. That's too cold. I'd rather take this up with him personally.

[June Dennison]

Oh, but, darling, what about our honeymoon?

[Mike Waring]

Well, that will have to keep, angel, until Bruce and I get together and decide who's the best man.

[June Dennison]

I guess he's not home.

[Mike Waring]

Are you sure this is Bruce's apartment?

[June Dennison]

Of course, darling. Would I fool you?

[Mike Waring]

No. Perry forbid. I suppose we go in and wait.

[June Dennison]

The door's locked.

[Mike Waring]

Well, I'm surprised at you, June. That's no insurmountable obstacle.

[June Dennison]

You going to pick the lock?

[Richie Wayne]

No, I'm going to pick your purse.

[Mike Waring]

Let go. Now, angel, you can't begrudge your husband a little privilege like this. That's part of the marriage contract. The groom is entitled to life liberty in pursuit of his wife's hands.

[Richie Wayne]

Can't beg.

[Mike Waring]

Here we are.

[June Dennison]

Dirty trick.

[Mike Waring]

You know, June, I don't approve of you having a key to Bruce's apartment. And I may have to take a step.

[June Dennison]

Now, listen, uh.

[Mike Waring]

Oh. Someone's taken them before me.

[June Dennison]

What?

[Richie Wayne]

Look.

[Mike Waring]

Bruce. Yeah.

[June Dennison]

What's the matter with him?

[Mike Waring]

He's dead.

[June Dennison]

Oh, no. I. I don't believe it.

[Mike Waring]

You're a pretty hard girl to convince.

[June Dennison]

But who could have killed him?

[Mike Waring]

That's just what I was going to ask you.

[June Dennison]

What do you mean?

[Mike Waring]

Well, thanks to those knockout drops, I was out for about four hours. Now, what did you do to amuse yourself during the.

[June Dennison]

Aren't you overlooking something?

[Mike Waring]

I don't know. Am I?

[June Dennison]

Yes. Where's my motive?

[Mike Waring]

What about that 90 grand you got from Richie Wayne? Now you won't have to do any long division. You can keep it all for yourself.

[June Dennison]

Oh, you're wonderful, Mike. You can't imagine how happy I am that we're married.

[Mike Waring]

Why? Because a husband can't testify against his wife?

[June Dennison]

You ought to know, dear. But doesn't it work the other way, too?

[Mike Waring]

What do you mean?

[June Dennison]

Well, a wife can't testify against her husband either. And you had a motive to kill Bruce, too.

[Mike Waring]

Did I?

[June Dennison]

Well, you don't exactly approve of our marriage, and it was Bruce's idea.

[Mike Waring]

Yes, but I was unconscious during that time.

[June Dennison]

So you claim. But now that I think of it, maybe you were faking.

[Mike Waring]

I don't know how long our marriage is going to last, June, but I can see now it's going to be exciting.

[June Dennison]

And think, darling, it's just beginning.

[Mike Waring]

Yes, I'm going to love every.

[June Dennison]

Look at that.

[Mike Waring]

Came from the closet.

[Richie Wayne]

All right, friend, come on out. Okay.

[Vince Castell]

Why not? Get those hands up. Wary Richie. I'm sorry I startled you, June, but I had no choice. Mr. Waring was so insistent.

[Mike Waring]

What are you doing here, Richie?

[Vince Castell]

Slumming. And you?

[Mike Waring]

What's the matter with you, kid? Don't you remember? I'm working for you.

[Vince Castell]

You mean you're working on me. You must have gotten quite a laugh when I told you about my troubles.

[Mike Waring]

I give you my word, Richie, you got it all wrong.

[Vince Castell]

I'll bet I have. So you were in on it all along?

[Mike Waring]

No.

[Vince Castell]

No wonder Discount Charlie gave you such a buildup. I can't wait to thank him for bringing me to you.

[Mike Waring]

Richie, you've got to listen to reason.

[Vince Castell]

Just stay where you are wearing. I'm not clowning. Come on, June. What you heard me. I'm taking you with me.

[June Dennison]

Oh, now, Richie, you wouldn't want to do that. Mike and I were just married.

[Discount Charlie]

That's too bad.

[Vince Castell]

But unless you and your husband want to spend your honeymoon in the morgue, you'll go quietly.

[Discount Charlie]

Come in. Oh, Mike.

[Mike Waring]

Hi, Charlene.

[Discount Charlie]

What's the score?

[Mike Waring]

Well, it doesn't look too good for the home team.

[Discount Charlie]

You mean you didn't get Richie's dough back?

[Mike Waring]

Not a dime.

[Discount Charlie]

Yeah, that's not so good, Mike. The kid ain't got much time left. You know what Vince Castell will do to him if he don't dig it up.

[Mike Waring]

I've got an idea.

[Discount Charlie]

Well, what'll I say to Richie when I see him?

[Mike Waring]

Well, whatever it is, Charlie, you better make it convincing. He thinks you and I were working with June in this swindle.

[Discount Charlie]

Well, that's the most ridiculous thing I ever heard.

[Mike Waring]

Wait till you hear the topper. Bruce Chaney has been murdered.

[Discount Charlie]

You kidding?

[Mike Waring]

Hardly.

[Discount Charlie]

Hey, who knocked him off June?

[Mike Waring]

I don't know. Before I had a chance to ask, Richie kidnapped him.

[Discount Charlie]

That's not good.

[Mike Waring]

No, we were on our honeymoon.

[Discount Charlie]

What are you talking about?

[Mike Waring]

Congratulations are in order, Charlie. We're Mr. And Mrs.

[Discount Charlie]

This a gig?

[Mike Waring]

Well, if it is, it's on me.

[Discount Charlie]

Well, why did Richie want to snatch your wife for?

[Mike Waring]

I don't know. Maybe he thought she could help him find you.

[Richie Wayne]

What?

[Mike Waring]

That's right. I had so much other news, I forgot to tell you. When last I talked to Richie, he mentioned he was going to look you up.

[Discount Charlie]

Hey, the kid's going off his trolley, Mike. We gotta find him.

[Mike Waring]

Why not let him find us?

[Discount Charlie]

What do you mean?

[Mike Waring]

Well, if he's gonna try to kill you, obviously he's gotta locate you first.

[Discount Charlie]

That's a cheery thought.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah, I was sure you'd like it. Well, after he shoots you, call me at my apartment, huh?

[Discount Charlie]

Yeah. Supposing he kills me dead?

[Mike Waring]

Well, now, Charlie, you don't wanna be selfish. I'm supplying all the ideas. The least you can do is supply the corpse. I'll be seeing you, fella.

[Vince Castell]

I hope.

[Mike Waring]

Just a second. Mr. Vince Castell?

[Bruce Chaney]

Yes.

[Mike Waring]

My name is Mike Waring. I tried you at your club, but they told me you left.

[Bruce Chaney]

Come in.

[Mike Waring]

Thank you.

[Bruce Chaney]

What's on your mind? Mr. Waring, I'd like to talk to.

[Mike Waring]

You about Richie Wayne.

[Bruce Chaney]

What about Richie?

[Mike Waring]

Well, I'm working for him. You gave him 48 hours to dig up the money to cover those checks.

[Bruce Chaney]

I know what I gave him.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah? Well, how about an extension?

[Bruce Chaney]

Not a chance.

[Mike Waring]

Now, what do you want to be so vindictive about? Richie made a mistake. Anybody might have over this girl.

[Bruce Chaney]

I can't be that tolerant.

[Mike Waring]

But you never saw her. She's the type who uses voodoo. One whiff and you're knocked out.

[Bruce Chaney]

Has she got my money now?

[Mike Waring]

I think so.

[Bruce Chaney]

Then I'll see her very shortly.

[Mike Waring]

You know her name?

[Bruce Chaney]

I'll find out.

[Mike Waring]

I can save you the trouble. They tell me it's Mrs. Michael Waring.

[Richie Wayne]

What?

[Mike Waring]

Oh, I think your phone's ringing.

[Bruce Chaney]

Let it ring.

[Mike Waring]

But it may be for me. I left a message at my place. I was coming over here. Do you mind? Hello?

[Discount Charlie]

Hello? Is that you, Mike?

[Mike Waring]

Yeah.

[Discount Charlie]

This is Discount Charlie.

[Mike Waring]

How'd you make out?

[Discount Charlie]

Well, not so hot. I couldn't find Richie anywhere.

[Mike Waring]

Well, look, Charlie, here's what I want you to do.

[Discount Charlie]

Wait a minute, Mike. Someone just came in.

[Mike Waring]

Who?

[Richie Wayne]

Hey, hey, listen, kid.

[Discount Charlie]

What's the idea? Hey, put away the rod, Richie. I'm your friend. You don't know what.

[Richie Wayne]

Charlie. Charlie, what's the trouble?

[Mike Waring]

Wearing. Something's just gone dead, Castell. And I don't think it's the line. Where is it? This apartment here or D. Try the door.

[Bruce Chaney]

It's knocked.

[Mike Waring]

Sure, wouldn't you know it?

[Bruce Chaney]

What about the keyhole?

[Mike Waring]

So this is how you become a columnist.

[Bruce Chaney]

See anything?

[Mike Waring]

Nope.

[Vince Castell]

He's still in there.

[Bruce Chaney]

Well, there must be some other way to get into the apartment.

[Mike Waring]

Forget it. There isn't. Come on, Vince, give me a hand.

[Bruce Chaney]

What are you going to do?

[Mike Waring]

Break it open. You with me?

[Discount Charlie]

All right.

[Mike Waring]

1. They don't make the doors the way they used to in the old days. Where is he?

[Bruce Chaney]

In the corner.

[Richie Wayne]

Charlie. Charlie.

[Bruce Chaney]

Is he dead?

[Mike Waring]

No, his heart is still beating. Get some water.

[Discount Charlie]

Oh, now, don't, Richie. You got us wrong.

[Mike Waring]

Take it easy, Charlie. You're gonna be all right.

[Discount Charlie]

Oh, hello, Mike.

[Mike Waring]

Hiya, fella. How you doing?

[Discount Charlie]

Great.

[Mike Waring]

That's the spirit.

[Bruce Chaney]

Here you are.

[Mike Waring]

Here. Thanks. Come on, boy. Drink this down.

[Discount Charlie]

I can't hide.

[Mike Waring]

Where?

[Richie Wayne]

All over.

[Mike Waring]

That's just a shock. As far as I can see, it's nothing but a flesh wound.

[Bruce Chaney]

Charlie, what happened?

[Discount Charlie]

I don't know. Somebody plugged me.

[Mike Waring]

Don't give me that. You know who it was, honest.

[Discount Charlie]

Honest, I don't, Mike. He got me from behind.

[Mike Waring]

And how come the bullet entered your shoulder from the front? What's more, I heard you calling Richie over the phone.

[Discount Charlie]

Now listen, Mike, the kid didn't know what he was doing.

[Mike Waring]

I hope the cops will agree with you. Was June with him?

[Discount Charlie]

No, he was alone.

[Mike Waring]

You feel well enough to travel?

[Discount Charlie]

Yeah. Where are we going?

[Mike Waring]

Over to Richie's apartment.

[Bruce Chaney]

Isn't this a job for the police?

[Mike Waring]

You forget fence. Richie beat it with my wife. And I wouldn't want the cops to interfere in a purely family affair. Here we go.

[Richie Wayne]

When you shop tomorrow, be sure to pick up a pint or quart bottle of craft salad oil. It's the wonderful new oil for your homemade salad dressings. Your cooking, your baking. The first salad oil ever offered for your home use by Kraft. Remember, it's a lighter bodied oil that blends perfectly with other ingredients. Lighter bodied because it's super fine by a special process created by craft. Don't wait to try craft salad oil. Look for the bottle with the beautiful label. Now back to the adventures of the Falcon. An hour has passed since Mike Waring learned that he obviously is never to enjoy his honeymoon. Now we find the falcon, Charlie and Vince knocking on the door of the snake in his own personal garden of Eden. Yeah?

[Mike Waring]

Richie Wayne in? Sure, come in. Thanks. Where is he? Under the blanket. What? You want to look at him? Yes.

[Discount Charlie]

Holy smoke.

[Mike Waring]

Well, thank you very much, Mr. McDonald.

[Richie Wayne]

Only it's lieutenant.

[Mike Waring]

That's what I thought. I don't believe I caught your name. It's Waring. The Falcon. That's right. Who are your friends?

[Bruce Chaney]

My name is Vince Castell.

[Mike Waring]

I've heard of you.

[Discount Charlie]

Charlie. Charlie Beck's my name. Glad to know you, Lieutenant.

[Mike Waring]

Hi.

[Bruce Chaney]

Yeah.

[Discount Charlie]

What happened to Richie?

[Richie Wayne]

Can't you see?

[Bruce Chaney]

You mean that gun in his hand?

[Mike Waring]

Yeah.

[Discount Charlie]

But why should he want to commit suicide?

[Richie Wayne]

For you? Friends of his?

[Mike Waring]

I work for him. Okay, then you can read this. To whom it may concern. There's nothing else for me to do. I killed Bruce Chaney and Charlie Beckham.

[Discount Charlie]

The poor narrator, he knocked me off.

[Mike Waring]

No one else is to blame. Except the woman who got me into this. June Denison. Well, that's all there is.

[Discount Charlie]

Is that enough?

[Mike Waring]

I don't know, Charlie. There are several things it doesn't explain one. What happened to my wife?

[June Dennison]

Hello, Mike.

[Mike Waring]

Speak of the devil.

[June Dennison]

Darling, you're not very flattering.

[Richie Wayne]

Who's she?

[Mike Waring]

My wife, Lieutenant.

[Richie Wayne]

Really?

[June Dennison]

Really. Were you worried about me, Mike?

[Mike Waring]

Why, naturally. You forget, angel, we haven't even had our honeymoon.

[June Dennison]

Leave it to me, darling. I'll make up for it.

[Discount Charlie]

You'll make up for a lot of things, June. You cause that kid to take his. Hey, hold it. Hey, you know something, Mike? I don't think Richie did commit suicide.

[Mike Waring]

What do you mean, Charlie?

[Discount Charlie]

Well, I got an idea. He was knocked off. Well, why couldn't that letter have been tricked up by June?

[June Dennison]

Oh, isn't he sweet now?

[Mike Waring]

You're wrong, Charlie. June couldn't have done it. How would she know that Richie tried to kill you?

[Discount Charlie]

Well, yeah. Yeah, she wouldn't.

[Mike Waring]

But you were right about one thing. The note is a phony. It was written long before the attempt on your life. That doesn't make sense. It does to Charlie, though, doesn't it, pal?

[Discount Charlie]

Mike, you realize what you're saying?

[Mike Waring]

Sure. You killed Richie Wayne and Bruce Cheney.

[Discount Charlie]

What's the idea, Mike?

[Mike Waring]

Well, you stared me to a good thing, friend. So I don't mind steering you to one. A little item known as the chair. And Charlie for you, I'll even forget my discount.

[June Dennison]

You know, I've just come to a conclusion, Mike.

[Mike Waring]

What's that, June?

[June Dennison]

I've really got a brilliant husband. What gets me is how you knew that the note Richie left was a phony.

[Mike Waring]

Had to be, Angel. It was obviously written before the attempt on Charlie's life. Charlie killed Richie, wrote the note, then went back to his own place and shot himself.

[June Dennison]

Is that a guess?

[Mike Waring]

No. It's the only way it comes out. Even when Vince Castell and I got to Charlie's apartment, we found the door locked. Before we broke it down, I tried to peek through the keyhole. Couldn't.

[June Dennison]

Why not?

[Mike Waring]

Key was still in the lock. And since that was the only door to the apartment. You tell me how. Richie could shoot Charlie, make his exit, then lock the door from the outside, yet leave the key on the inside. That calls for Houdini, baby, and he's been dead for years.

[June Dennison]

But what was Charlie's motive?

[Mike Waring]

You know that as well as I. Didn't he steer Richie to you and Bruce in the first place?

[June Dennison]

Yes. But why did he steer Richie to you?

[Mike Waring]

He had no choice in the matter. Richie had made up his mind to come to me anyway. And by going along, Charlie could keep tabs on the situation. Isn't that how you knew I was coming over to your place?

[June Dennison]

Well, yes. But why did he kill Bruce?

[Mike Waring]

Well, if he could knock him off and frame you for the kill that left him in the clear with Vince's attention and no one to split with.

[June Dennison]

But why did he kill Richie?

[Mike Waring]

Well, Charlie couldn't afford to let him live. Richie had him pegged as the party responsible for all his troubles. That was why he released you to go after Charlie.

[June Dennison]

Well, that'll learn me.

[Mike Waring]

I hope so, Angel.

[June Dennison]

What are we stopping here for?

[Mike Waring]

This is where we get off.

[June Dennison]

There's police headquarters.

[Mike Waring]

Well, that's right, it is.

[June Dennison]

What's the idea, Mike?

[Mike Waring]

Well, the idea is that I'm working for Vince Castell now, and you've got a nice hunk of choice that belongs to him.

[June Dennison]

But I'm your wife.

[Mike Waring]

Ah. Look, June, let's not kid each other. You don't think for a minute I'd leave that routine. Didn't you know that you can't get a license in New York without a blood test?

[June Dennison]

Are you no.

[Mike Waring]

Good. If you're so set on getting married, I'll be waiting. And with time off for good behavior, who knows? We may even be able to make it by 1961. Friends, this is Mike Waring. If you don't mind, I'd like to ask you a question. Do you ever break a traffic safety rule? You know, every time you do, you're taking a chance, a big chance, and making yourself a vital statistic in the traffic death toll, a toll that's tragically big. Yes. In most every traffic accident there's a violation of some traffic safety rule. So be careful whether you're walking or driving. Obey those safety rules. Remember, the life you saved may be your own.

[Richie Wayne]

The Case of the Proud Papa. The Case of the Proud Papa. That's the title of the next Adventure of the Falcon. When Mike Waring learns that when three people confess to a murder, they're shooting too over par. Starting next week, the Adventures of the Falcon will be heard on Wednesdays. So be sure to listen. Wednesday, June 6th. That's right, Wednesday, June 6th. 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. Shubert, written today by Eugene Wang and directed by Richard Lewis. Music was by Arlo. Les Damon was starred as the Falcon with Joan Alexander as June. This coming Wednesday, listen to the Great Gilderslave. And be sure to hear the next adventure of the Falcon the following Wednesday evening, June 6th. Remember the show, the time and the place. The Adventures of the falcon. Wednesday evening, June 6, over most of these stations. Check your local newspaper for time of broadcast. This is Ed Hernahey speaking for the Kraft Foods Company. Paul Douglas stars on Theater Guild tonight over NBC.