The Falcon: The Case of the Widow's Gorilla 11/12/1950

Summary

The Falcon: The Case of the Widow's Gorilla

Episode Date: November 12, 1950
Release Date: December 5, 2024
Host: Choice Classic Radio

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Introduction

In this thrilling installment of The Adventures of the Falcon, hosted by Choice Classic Radio, listeners are immersed in a classic detective narrative set in the bustling backdrop of New York City. Michael Waring, alias The Falcon, portrayed by Les Damon, takes center stage as he delves into a complex case involving corporate rivalry, alleged suicide, and murky underworld dealings.

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Setting the Scene

The episode opens in the dimly lit apartment of Raymond Orsatti, a middle-aged novelty manufacturer whose business empire is on the brink of collapse. Pressured by his formidable competitor, Alvin Kendrick, Orsatti contemplates drastic measures to escape his financial woes.

Orsatti and Lois Orsatti's Confrontation
Timestamp: [03:06] - [05:30]

• Raymond Orsatti: "Business is ruined. Kendrick's got the best of me. There's nothing left." ([03:16])
• Lois Orsatti: Encourages Raymond to find a solution, asserting his ability to overcome adversity without resorting to self-harm.

This intense dialogue sets the stage for Raymond's desperate plan, hinting at potential foul play masked as suicide.

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The Inciting Incident

Raymond Orsatti's Last Moments
Timestamp: [02:37] - [04:17]

Raymond's internal struggle culminates in a dramatic scene where he contemplates suicide but is interrupted by his wife, Lois. Their exchange reveals Raymond's desperation and hints at a possible conspiracy involving Kendrick.

Alvin Kendrick's Entrance
Timestamp: [04:10] - [07:14]

Alvin Kendrick arrives, dismissing Raymond's merger proposal and leaving soon after Raymond is found dead. Kendrick presents his theory of suicide, suggesting Raymond took his own life to blame Kendrick. However, inconsistencies in Raymond's account and the absence of a suicide note raise suspicions, laying the groundwork for The Falcon's investigation.

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The Falcon's Investigation Begins

Encounter with Leonard Stribling
Timestamp: [07:00] - [10:20]

Detective Falcon, posing as Mike Waring, engages with Leonard Stribling, a bookie implicated in the case. Stribling's evasive responses and reference to an insurance policy hint at underlying motives and potential corruption.

Key Quote:
Mike Waring: "So you're saying Ossadi killed himself because he wanted me blamed." ([07:03])

This conversation underscores the complexity of the case, suggesting that the supposed suicide may be a well-orchestrated scheme to deflect blame.

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Unraveling the Mystery

Confrontation with Lois Orsatti
Timestamp: [10:25] - [18:42]

The Falcon confronts Lois, Raymond's widow, uncovering her involvement with Jack Marbury, a thug connected to the supposed suicide. Lois's initial resistance and eventual revelations point towards a deeper conspiracy tied to insurance fraud and personal vendettas.

Key Quote:
Lois Orsatti: "Vous killed him for it." ([24:22])

Here, Lois accuses the Falcon, heightening the tension and indicating her deeper entanglement in the unfolding drama.

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Climactic Revelation

The Final Showdown
Timestamp: [21:30] - [28:15]

As the plot thickens, The Falcon exposes the truth behind Raymond's death. He deftly navigates through deceit, revealing that Lois orchestrated events to secure a lucrative insurance payout by manipulating both Kendrick and Marbury. The revelation culminates in a confrontation where the Falcon presents irrefutable evidence, clearing Kendrick of wrongdoing and unmasking Lois as the true antagonist.

Key Quote:
Michael Waring: "He was lying to her. He went up, killed Stribling for the note, sold it to me." ([25:34])

This pivotal moment exposes the layers of betrayal and deceit, ultimately leading to justice being served.

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Resolution

Closure and Justice
Timestamp: [28:13] - [28:43]

In the episode's denouement, Kendrick acknowledges The Falcon's prowess, receiving his payment and stepping away from the case. The Falcon's meticulous investigation not only solves the mystery but also restores balance, ensuring that the rightful parties are held accountable.

Key Quote:
Kendrick: "Very good, Waring. Very good indeed. And now here's your check." ([28:23])

This exchange signifies the successful resolution of the case, highlighting The Falcon's role as a vigilant and effective detective.

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Conclusion

The Falcon: The Case of the Widow's Gorilla delivers a captivating narrative filled with suspense, intricate character dynamics, and sharp dialogue. Through diligent investigation and keen intuition, Michael Waring unravels a tangled web of deceit, showcasing the quintessential elements of golden age radio detective storytelling. This episode not only entertains but also underscores themes of greed, manipulation, and the relentless pursuit of truth.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Raymond Orsatti: "Business is ruined. Kendrick's got the best of me. There's nothing left." ([03:16])
• Mike Waring: "So you're saying Ossadi killed himself because he wanted me blamed." ([07:03])
• Lois Orsatti: "You killed him for it." ([24:22])
• Michael Waring: "He was lying to her. He went up, killed Stribling for the note, sold it to me." ([25:34])
• Kendrick: "Very good, Waring. Very good indeed. And now here's your check." ([28:23])

These quotes encapsulate pivotal moments in the episode, highlighting character motivations and turning points in the investigation.

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Recommendation:
For enthusiasts of classic detective tales and old-time radio dramas, The Falcon: The Case of the Widow's Gorilla is a must-listen. It epitomizes the golden age of radio storytelling, blending suspense, character depth, and intricate plotting to deliver an unforgettable auditory experience.

Transcript

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[Radio Host]

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 donating at choice classicradio.com the Kraft.

[Ed Hurley]

Foods Company brings you the Adventures of the Falcon, starring Les Damon.

[Radio Host]

Hello? Yes, this is the Falcon speaking. Oh, Doris, thanks for the call, but tonight is out for me. I'm working for a businessman who was killed off his competition and the question is, did he do it literally?

[Ed Hurley]

This is Ed Hurleyhe friends inviting you on behalf of the Kraft Foods company to listen to the Adventures of the Falcon. You met the Falcon first in his bestselling 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 widow's gorilla. Sunday afternoon in time for another thrilling adventure of the Falcon. But first, a word about another kind of adventure. An adventure in flavor. For right now at your grocer's, there's a wonderful new salad oil for use in your homemade salad dressings, your cooking, your baking. It's craft salad oil, the first salad oil ever offered for your home use by the makers of all those wonderful craft prepared dressings. Now, cross Kraft salad oil is more than just a new oil. It's a new kind of oil, a lighter bodied oil to mix quickly and perfectly with all other ingredients. That's because it's not just refined, it's super fined by a special process created by craft. Yes, superfined to put new magic into the salad dressings you make yourself into those wonderful chiffon cakes you pride yourself on into every home recipe that calls for liquid shortening. Don't wait to get acquainted with Kraft Salad Oil. Look for the bottle with the beautiful label tomorrow at your grocer's. Get Kraft Salad oil.

[Radio Host]

Now.

[Ed Hurley]

The case of the Widow's Gorilla. It's late Sunday night in the New York apartment of novelty manufacturer Raymond Orsatti, or Sati, is the stout middle aged man who at the moment is opening a desk drawer in the study of the apartment, out of which he takes a revolver. He breaks the revolver, sees that it's loaded, closes it and is raising it to his head when he hears a sound behind him. He turns to see his wife Lois standing in the doorway.

[Lois Orsatti]

Raymond, what are you doing?

[Raymond Orsatti]

What does it look like I'm doing?

[Lois Orsatti]

Give me that gun.

[Raymond Orsatti]

Stay away from me, Raymond.

[Lois Orsatti]

Let me have it.

[Raymond Orsatti]

Stay away or you'll really get hurt.

[Lois Orsatti]

Don't you listen to reason?

[Raymond Orsatti]

What can you say? Business is ruined. Kendrick's got the best of me. There's nothing left.

[Lois Orsatti]

Are you just going to quit? Let him win so easily?

[Raymond Orsatti]

He's already won. Driven me to the wall. There's nothing I can do.

[Lois Orsatti]

There must be something.

[Raymond Orsatti]

Bankruptcy, Disgrace.

[Lois Orsatti]

You've just stopped feeling sorry for yourself and really work at it. You'd find a way out.

[Raymond Orsatti]

How?

[Lois Orsatti]

Don't ask me. You're the brave.

[Raymond Orsatti]

I tell you, it's no use. Only other way out would.

[Kendrick]

Hey, wait a minute.

[Raymond Orsatti]

That's an idea. If Kendrick would fall for it.

[Lois Orsatti]

What is it?

[Raymond Orsatti]

Yes, it's a possibility, that is.

[Lois Orsatti]

What are you talking about?

[Raymond Orsatti]

You'll see if it works. Have to figure out how to present it to Kendrick. He might just go for it. He just might. Well, there's the proposition. Kendrick, what do you say?

[Kendrick]

Is that all you have to offer?

[Raymond Orsatti]

Oh, look, it's all in your favor. Everything the way.

[Kendrick]

Good morning, Arsadi. I'm not interested.

[Raymond Orsatti]

But don't you see?

[Kendrick]

It's not worth discussing. When you asked me to come over this morning, I thought you had a worthwhile offer. I can't waste my time on this. Good day, Osori.

[Raymond Orsatti]

No, Kendrick, wait.

[Kendrick]

Perhaps your time isn't valuable, Osori. Mine is. Good day again.

[Raymond Orsatti]

I might have known he wouldn't be interested. I should have known. Why do I try to kid myself? What's the use, dear Lois, it's no use. I knew that it wouldn't be, but I tried to pretend I'm sorry about everything. But there's only one way out. You took the gun last night, but you didn't know. I have another. Try to forgive me, Ray.

[Radio Host]

Excuse me, miss.

[Lois Orsatti]

Yeah?

[Radio Host]

I'd like to see Mr. Kendrick.

[Lois Orsatti]

Hey, you know something?

[Radio Host]

What?

[Lois Orsatti]

You look an awful lot like the falcon.

[Radio Host]

Well, it's the shape of my face.

[Lois Orsatti]

Amazing. I've seen pictures of him.

[Radio Host]

Will you please tell Mr. Kendrick I'm here? He's expecting me.

[Lois Orsatti]

Your name?

[Radio Host]

Michael Waring?

[Lois Orsatti]

Yes, Michael Waring. You are the Falcon?

[Radio Host]

Yes. Small world, isn't it? Now, will you tell Kendrick I'm going.

[Kendrick]

Out for a few minutes? If Mr. Waring comes, ask him to wait.

[Lois Orsatti]

This is Mr. Waring.

[Kendrick]

Oh, fine. I'm not going out after all. Come on in, Waring.

[Radio Host]

Right.

[Kendrick]

And if anyone else comes, I don't want to be disturbed. Now, Waring. I guess you wonder what a man like me wants with a Detective?

[Radio Host]

Oh, I wouldn't say that. Happens in the best of families.

[Kendrick]

What happens?

[Radio Host]

Needing detectives.

[Kendrick]

Oh. Oh, that. Thought you meant murder. I wonder how you knew.

[Radio Host]

So that's why I'm here.

[Kendrick]

Yes. The police just left. You'll read about it in the paper tomorrow.

[Radio Host]

What'll I read?

[Kendrick]

I have a nice little business here, Welling. Been growing steadily the past few years. This week, I drove my chief competitor, Raymond Ar, to the wall. Bankruptcy.

[Radio Host]

Bully for you.

[Kendrick]

Got a call from him this morning. Could I come right over? I went. What he offered was a merger. I don't need him. He needs me.

[Radio Host]

Well?

[Kendrick]

Well, I told him I wasn't interested and left. An hour later, he's found shot through the head.

[Radio Host]

That's one way to get rid of competition.

[Kendrick]

I didn't do it.

[Radio Host]

All right, Shum. All right.

[Kendrick]

But the medical examiner says he got it right around the time I was there.

[Radio Host]

But he was alive when you left.

[Kendrick]

Definitely. Only I have no proof. But I have a theory. Waring, see what you think of it. All right, I say suicide.

[Radio Host]

Was there a note?

[Kendrick]

They didn't find any. But here's the way I see it. Osati knew he was licked and blames me. He decides to give up and shoots himself. But he does it in a way to get back at me. He kills. He calls me on a silly pretext, waits till I leave, and then kills himself intentionally, leaving no note. So I'll be blamed. You don't buy it?

[Radio Host]

It's possible. Who found the body?

[Kendrick]

A Leonard Stribling. He arrived an hour after me.

[Radio Host]

You know anything about Stribling?

[Kendrick]

I understand he's a bookie or. Sorry.

[Ed Hurley]

Like the horses.

[Radio Host]

All right, Kendrick. I'll drop around and see Stribling. You're playing a long shot, and I have an idea. He's just the boy to quote me the odds. Hello. My name is Mike Waring. Like to see Leonard Stribling, please. I'm Stribling the bookie?

[Leonard Stribling]

Look around you're wearing. Look around you. Can't you see this is a loan office?

[Radio Host]

Convenient. You clean them, lend them the money, then clean them all over again. Get them coming and going.

[Leonard Stribling]

You got the wrong Leonard Stribling.

[Radio Host]

Didn't you find Raymond Orsadi's body?

[Leonard Stribling]

So what?

[Radio Host]

I've got the right Leonard Stribling.

[Leonard Stribling]

Look, I don't know what you want, Waring, but whatever it is, you're wasting your time. The law's had me on the grill already. And I'm clear. Ossadi was killed an hour before I went up to his place. And I can account for every second of that hour with witnesses.

[Radio Host]

So you didn't kill him. What's the chances he killed himself?

[Leonard Stribling]

Suicide.

[Radio Host]

Mm. Are you sure there wasn't a note?

[Leonard Stribling]

Who are you working for, Waring Insurance company.

[Radio Host]

What insurance company?

[Leonard Stribling]

Sillies. He had a 30 grand policy. Didn't you know?

[Radio Host]

I'm just beginning. Tell me more.

[Leonard Stribling]

Oh, you tell me who you're working for.

[Radio Host]

That's no secret. Kendrick.

[Leonard Stribling]

Kendrick, huh? Good. Very good.

[Radio Host]

You like that?

[Leonard Stribling]

Come on in here, Waring.

[Radio Host]

Okay.

[Leonard Stribling]

Now, look. Kendrick is in this kind of deep.

[Radio Host]

Hmm. So.

[Leonard Stribling]

Well, I suppose there was a note. A suicide note? I don't say there was. But if there was, that'd be all the proof Kendrick would need that he didn't knock off Orsadi, right?

[Radio Host]

Right.

[Leonard Stribling]

A note like that ought to be worth a lot to Kendrick.

[Radio Host]

How much?

[Leonard Stribling]

Don't ask me. Kendrick's the only one who can answer that. But before he starts figuring, maybe you'd better remind him that he's not the only one who'd be interested in the note.

[Radio Host]

Who else?

[Leonard Stribling]

Ossadi's widow.

[Radio Host]

Why? Suicide clause.

[Leonard Stribling]

You guessed it, chum. The clause is in effect. If Osadi killed himself, the insurance is void, meaning that Mrs. O is out a cool 30 grand.

[Radio Host]

I get the picture.

[Leonard Stribling]

Good. Show it to Kendrick. He may appreciate art, too.

[Lois Orsatti]

Yes?

[Radio Host]

Are you Lois or Sardin? Yes. My name is Mike Waring. I'd like to talk to you for a minute. May I come in?

[Lois Orsatti]

What's it about?

[Radio Host]

Your husband's death.

[Lois Orsatti]

I don't want to think about it anymore. You'll have to go now.

[Radio Host]

I know how you feel. But before I go, I thought you might like to know. I've just seen Leonard Stribling.

[Lois Orsatti]

What of it?

[Radio Host]

He tried to sell me your husband's suicide note.

[Lois Orsatti]

What?

[Radio Host]

Yes, Mrs. Arsadi. Stribling says your husband killed himself, and he's dickering with you to sell you the note so you can cash in on the insurance.

[Lois Orsatti]

That's a lie. I haven't seen Stribling.

[Radio Host]

Well, then you will. He wants to get us bidding against each other.

[Lois Orsatti]

What's your interest in the note?

[Radio Host]

Well, it could save me a lot of trouble. If you buy it, you're just going to wind up in a jam with the insurance company.

[Lois Orsatti]

What an awful thing to say. To suggest that I do such a thing. It isn't enough what I've gone through, you have to come here, make such accusations?

[Radio Host]

I didn't accuse. I advised.

[Lois Orsatti]

Get out of here.

[Leonard Stribling]

Sure.

[Radio Host]

So long, Marbury.

[Lois Orsatti]

Marbury, come here.

[Jack Marbury]

Yeah, Mrs. Ossotti, what's the trouble?

[Lois Orsatti]

A man just left Michael Waring. You can catch him before he reaches the street. I want you to see that he doesn't get to Stribling. If he tries to stop him. I don't care what you do, only stop him, you understand? Miracle Whip has a flavor so pleasing. Miracle Whip tastes so lively, so teasing. Miracle Whip, only one of its kind. Miracle Whip, best salad dressing you'll find.

[Ed Hurley]

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[Kendrick]

Hello?

[Radio Host]

Kendrick?

[Kendrick]

Yes.

[Radio Host]

Mike Waring.

[Kendrick]

Oh yes, Waring. Any luck?

[Radio Host]

Yeah, you were right. Looks like Ossadi killed himself.

[Kendrick]

I knew it.

[Radio Host]

But you were also wrong.

[Kendrick]

What's that you said?

[Radio Host]

Ossotti didn't leave a note because he wanted you blamed.

[Kendrick]

Uh huh.

[Radio Host]

Well there is a note.

[Kendrick]

There is.

[Radio Host]

So Stribling claims. So what becomes of your theory?

[Kendrick]

Well, it's still suicide. But Stribling told the police there wasn't.

[Radio Host]

Any note because he wants to peddle it to the highest bidder.

[Kendrick]

Oh, but who else would be interested?

[Radio Host]

Mrs. Or Sotti? I tried to talk her out of the deal but no dice. She put a tail on me.

[Kendrick]

What?

[Radio Host]

Yeah, a flat faced Joe who's making such a production of being inconspicuous that he stands out like an overcoat in July. He's right outside this phone booth waiting to pick me up again.

[Kendrick]

What are you going to do?

[Radio Host]

Have dinner. I'm hungry.

[Kendrick]

All right, Waring, but about that note. I'm willing to pay. I don't like being involved with murder.

[Radio Host]

And I don't like blackmail. I'll go up and see Stribling as soon as I finish dinner.

[Kendrick]

And the man who's following you?

[Radio Host]

Well, if he's still with Me after dinner. I'll call him on it. If he's as bad a liar as he is a tale I should learn plenty. All right, chum, what are we playing? You've been following me ever since I left Otis.

[Jack Marbury]

You own this sidewalk?

[Radio Host]

Well, considering taxes, sometimes I wonder.

[Jack Marbury]

You want to walk, you walk. I want to walk, I walk. It doesn't say somebody's following somebody.

[Radio Host]

All right, walk. I'll wait here.

[Jack Marbury]

I'll walk when I feel like it.

[Radio Host]

You mean when I feel like it. Now, look, chum, I've been in this racket long enough to know when I'm being tailed.

[Jack Marbury]

In that case, you've been in the racket long enough to be familiar with one of these.

[Radio Host]

A gun? Yes.

[Jack Marbury]

Well, turn around. Go on. Now start walking.

[Radio Host]

Where to?

[Jack Marbury]

Straight ahead. Remember, I'm right behind you.

[Radio Host]

Well, under the circumstances, I'm not likely to forget. You know, I'm sorry you're so attached to me. I'm really not your type at all.

[Jack Marbury]

Maybe you have a point. Turn into that alley.

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[Jack Marbury]

All right, now stop.

[Radio Host]

I have an idea. This is the part I don't like.

[Jack Marbury]

Don't like? You love it. This is where I leave you. That's where you want it, isn't it?

[Radio Host]

Well, yes.

[Jack Marbury]

Only before I go, I better say goodbye, like so.

[Raymond Orsatti]

All right, pal, on your feet.

[Radio Host]

Oh, hello, officer.

[Raymond Orsatti]

Come on, get up.

[Radio Host]

I'll try.

[Raymond Orsatti]

Emma. Can't handle it. Shouldn't touch it.

[Ed Hurley]

Huh?

[Raymond Orsatti]

You heard me.

[Radio Host]

You think I'm drunk?

[Kendrick]

No.

[Raymond Orsatti]

That aroma issuing from you is doubtless genuine attar of roses.

[Radio Host]

What? Oh, yeah. You must have doused this stuff on me.

[Raymond Orsatti]

Oh, you didn't drink it. Somebody doused you.

[Radio Host]

Look, officer, I was sapped. Here's the lump if you want to feel it.

[Raymond Orsatti]

Hey, neat job, right? Back in the year. Maybe I was wrong.

[Radio Host]

Yeah, maybe. What time is it, officer?

[Raymond Orsatti]

A little after eight.

[Radio Host]

Then I've only been out a few minutes. There may still be time, huh? The thug obviously works for Mrs. Ossotti. I thought I could scare her into tossing in her hand. But the strong arm act means she's shooting for the pot. That means I've got to work fast.

[Raymond Orsatti]

What'd you say?

[Radio Host]

She wants to beat me to a deal with Stribling. But if she gets that note, I'm cooked. When the gavel comes down, I have to be a high bidder. I've got to get up there.

[Raymond Orsatti]

All right, pal, run along. You're not drunk. You're crazy.

[Leonard Stribling]

Harrison. Departments. O'Callaghan, 308. Just a moment. I connect you.

[Kendrick]

Yes, sir.

[Leonard Stribling]

Now, what can I do for you?

[Kendrick]

What?

[Radio Host]

Apartment of Striblings I want to talk to.

[Leonard Stribling]

I'm afraid that is impossible, sir. He's not seeing anyone.

[Radio Host]

But he'll see me.

[Leonard Stribling]

I do not think so, Sir.

[Radio Host]

Why not?

[Leonard Stribling]

Mr. Stribling is dead.

[Lois Orsatti]

Oh, you again?

[Radio Host]

That's right, Mrs. Osaka.

[Lois Orsatti]

What do you want this time?

[Radio Host]

The thug. Where is he?

[Lois Orsatti]

Thug?

[Radio Host]

The character who followed me when I left here before.

[Lois Orsatti]

I don't know what you're talking about.

[Radio Host]

You do know what I'm talking about. He didn't tail me here. He did tail me. From here. You must be the link.

[Lois Orsatti]

Now see here, Mr. Waring.

[Radio Host]

I know, I know this is no way to talk to a poor bereaved widow. But it so happens I've just been slugged by the poor widow's gorilla. And a thing like that doesn't put me on my best behavior. Now, where is he?

[Lois Orsatti]

Look, if you don't stop bothering me, I'm going to call the police.

[Radio Host]

Don't bother. They'll be around. I've already talked to them.

[Lois Orsatti]

You what?

[Radio Host]

I told you you were flirting with trouble. Well, the trouble's here. There's been a murder.

[Lois Orsatti]

Murder?

[Radio Host]

Yeah, murder. And your playmate may have some of the answers on it. So where can I find him?

[Lois Orsatti]

How many times do I have to tell you?

[Radio Host]

All right, all right. I keep thinking you'll listen to reason, But I see you're determined to do it the hard way, so I might as well run along. I'm just wasting my time here.

[Lois Orsatti]

I'm glad you finally realized that. Goodbye, Mr. Webb.

[Kendrick]

Hello? Oh, yes, Waring. I've been trying to reach you. I want to know what I owe you so we can settle up.

[Radio Host]

You mean I'm canned?

[Kendrick]

No. It's just I don't need your services anymore.

[Radio Host]

How come?

[Kendrick]

Have you seen Stribling tonight?

[Radio Host]

Yeah.

[Kendrick]

Well, didn't he tell you?

[Radio Host]

No. He's not in a talkative mood. What should he have told me about the note? What about it?

[Kendrick]

I got it from him.

[Radio Host]

You what?

[Kendrick]

I have Orate's suicide note. Got it from Stribling tonight. So you can see, as far as you're concerned, the case is closed.

[Radio Host]

Well, maybe Kendrick. But as far as you're concerned, believe me, it's just starting.

[Ed Hurley]

This is Ed Hurley here again. Friends, I do want to tell you something. I'm sure you mothers especially will want to know. It's how to get the finest cheese food you can buy for your family. It's simple, really. Just be sure you buy Velveeta, Kraft's delicious pasteurized processed cheese food. Velveeta tastes good and it's so good for you, too. For Velveeta is rich in important food values from milk, and it's as digestible as milk itself. So it's perfect anytime for snacks, sandwiches and grand hot dishes. Try it. Won't you mother make Velveeta your handy helper. Just be sure you get genuine Velveeta, the pasteurized processed cheese food of top quality, made by Kraft. Now back to the Adventures of the falcon. It is 20 minutes since Kendrick told Mike over the phone about having Orsati's suicide note. And since he has the note, Kendrick thinks he no longer needs Mike. But Mike has different ideas on the subject and he's gone over to Kendrick's to present them.

[Radio Host]

So you say you bought the note from Stribling?

[Kendrick]

That's right, Waring. I don't see why you're so excited about it. No, no, the note's conclusive. Unmistakably in Orsati's handwriting.

[Radio Host]

All right, Kendrick, you've proved you didn't kill Orsati. Now what about Stribling, huh?

[Kendrick]

What about him?

[Radio Host]

I suppose you don't know that he was killed tonight.

[Kendrick]

What? Good heavens.

[Radio Host]

You walk out of one murder app right into another. So it looks like my services are still very much required.

[Kendrick]

You're not joking.

[Radio Host]

When I work for Yox Kendrick, I pull cuter stuff than this. What do we do first? A quick run through to see where we stand. Like, why did you go up to Striblings? I told you I'd handle it.

[Kendrick]

He called me right after you did. Wanted to know how much I'd Pay. He claimed Mrs. Ossotti had offered 15,000. I offered 20.

[Radio Host]

And you took it right over to him.

[Kendrick]

That's right.

[Radio Host]

When did you get there?

[Kendrick]

Around 7:30.

[Radio Host]

How long did you stay?

[Kendrick]

5, 10 minutes.

[Radio Host]

Oh, great. You were there right around the time he was killed.

[Kendrick]

Oh, no.

[Radio Host]

The neighbors heard the shots.

[Kendrick]

He was alive when I left?

[Radio Host]

Yes, and was killed right after 7:40. You're in a rut, Orsati and Stribling. Right back where you started. Only this time, there's no note.

[Kendrick]

There may be another difference too.

[Radio Host]

What's that?

[Kendrick]

It was known that I was up at Orsati's. Possibly. No one knows I went to Stribling's.

[Radio Host]

I know.

[Kendrick]

Except you. Look, I'm scared to death of a murder charge, welling. I paid 20,000 already to clear myself of one. How much do you want?

[Radio Host]

Save your pennies, Kendrick. I work for my 50 a day, plus expenses. And if I can't clear you that way, you better have cash on hand for a good lawyer.

[Kendrick]

You've got to clear me.

[Radio Host]

All right, then let me do it my way. I'm going to make one last attempt at getting Lois or Saudi to talk. Oh, and you better come with me. I want to keep my eye on you.

[Kendrick]

Why?

[Radio Host]

Because Mrs. Orsotti has a gorilla working for her. And if she gets the idea you have the note, he may come calling. And take my word for it, Kendrick, you wouldn't enjoy. All right, here we are. 4:12. Now remember, Kendrick, let me do the talking.

[Kendrick]

All right?

[Radio Host]

Well, just one thing before we go in. Did you ever meet Stribling before tonight?

[Kendrick]

No. Why?

[Radio Host]

Well, good.

[Lois Orsatti]

Oh, not you again.

[Radio Host]

Yes, and this time I'm coming in.

[Lois Orsatti]

I see you are. What do I have to do?

[Radio Host]

Just be your charming self.

[Lois Orsatti]

All right, let's get this over with once and for all.

[Radio Host]

That suits me fine. You know Mr. Kendrick?

[Lois Orsatti]

Yes, I know him. He killed my husband.

[Kendrick]

Now see here, Mrs. Ossotti, I'll handle it.

[Radio Host]

Kendrick. Mrs. Ossotti, I told you your husband killed himself. Now we have proof.

[Lois Orsatti]

Then Kendrick drove him to it.

[Kendrick]

It was strictly business. Up and up.

[Radio Host]

If your husband wasn't here, Mr. Kendrick, I'll handle it. Sorry, Mrs. Osorti. Your husband killed himself. We have a note to prove it.

[Lois Orsatti]

You have it?

[Radio Host]

Yes, Right here. Nu. Don't touch. But you can see it's in your husband's handwriting.

[Lois Orsatti]

Where did you get it?

[Radio Host]

From Stribling.

[Lois Orsatti]

You killed him for it.

[Radio Host]

Who told you he's dead?

[Lois Orsatti]

The police were here.

[Radio Host]

I see.

[Lois Orsatti]

Yes, they were here, all right. It's not enough I've lost a husband. No, no. All day long. You and the police. And the police and you.

[Radio Host]

That's too bad. You know, I could have more sympathy with you if you weren't involved with that gorilla. And if you didn't lie about your dealings with Stribling.

[Lois Orsatti]

I didn't have any dealings with Stribling.

[Radio Host]

He said different.

[Lois Orsatti]

He was lying.

[Radio Host]

I doubt it. He wouldn't have closed the deal with us until he heard your last offer.

[Lois Orsatti]

He didn't close the deal. You killed him. That's how you got the note.

[Radio Host]

What makes you so sure?

[Lois Orsatti]

Because he obviously was killed for the note. And you've got it.

[Radio Host]

That's nice going, Mrs. Ossani, but there's one hitch.

[Lois Orsatti]

What's that?

[Radio Host]

Kendrick never met Stribling before. So when he bought the note. How do we know he bought it from Stribling?

[Lois Orsatti]

What?

[Kendrick]

Welling? You mean that wasn't Stribling?

[Radio Host]

Someone could have killed Stribling for the note, then sold it to you, pretending to be Stribling. But who? Well, obviously not you, Mrs. Ossotti. You couldn't have masqueraded as a man. But your gorilla. I've you told me you don't know the gorilla. But there's a good possibility that he's a murderer. Now if you want to keep on covering for him, you may wind up as an accessory.

[Lois Orsatti]

I didn't have anything to do with the murder.

[Radio Host]

But you did have something to do with the murderer. And if you don't talk now, we'll still prove it when we find him. After all, I've seen him. I've described him to the police. Now it's just a matter of time.

[Lois Orsatti]

What do you want me to do?

[Radio Host]

Tell us his name. Tell us where we can find him.

[Lois Orsatti]

All right. But you understand I didn't know he was going to kill Stribling.

[Radio Host]

Uh huh.

[Lois Orsatti]

Stribling phoned me, said he had something that I might be interested in. I hired Marbury to find out about it and that's all.

[Radio Host]

Marbury? So that's his name?

[Lois Orsatti]

Yes. Jack Marbury.

[Radio Host]

Right.

[Lois Orsatti]

But I didn't know he'd commit murder. I'm still not sure that he did. All I know is when you came, I ordered him to follow you. Later he called back, said he followed you home.

[Radio Host]

Home?

[Lois Orsatti]

That's what he said. Then he said he went up to Stribling's, but just as he got to the door, he heard a shot.

[Radio Host]

Oh, he heard the shot?

[Lois Orsatti]

That's what he said.

[Kendrick]

Looks like you've heard it. Waring. He was lying to her. He went up, killed Stribling for the note, sold it to me.

[Radio Host]

Where can we find her, Mrs. Ossotti?

[Lois Orsatti]

Well, perhaps if you try.

[Jack Marbury]

You're looking for me?

[Lois Orsatti]

Marbury.

[Jack Marbury]

Reach. All of you. I saw Waring come in here, so I went around the back. I thought you might need me, sweetheart, but I was wrong. You don't need me. What you need is a good smack in the teeth.

[Kendrick]

Waring is going for.

[Radio Host]

Now's my chance.

[Kendrick]

Good.

[Jack Marbury]

Waring.

[Kendrick]

You knocked him out. But he's not.

[Radio Host]

Not the one who sold you the note. I didn't think he would be. But you Said you know what I said? Because I was trying to catch a murderer. And you know Kendrick? Looks like I did.

[Kendrick]

Yes. Who?

[Radio Host]

Kendrick. It's obvious. The broken hearted widow, Lois Orsotti.

[Kendrick]

Yes?

[Lois Orsatti]

Mr. Waring is here.

[Kendrick]

All right, send him in. Hello, Welling. Come in. Sit down.

[Radio Host]

Thanks. Kendrick. Well, I got the whole story out of her at headquarters.

[Kendrick]

Good. One thing I still don't understand, Welling, maybe you can explain.

[Radio Host]

What's that?

[Kendrick]

Why'd she do it? The note was what everyone was after. Killing Stribling didn't get it for.

[Radio Host]

She wanted the note because she'd lose 30,000 if it fell into your hands.

[Kendrick]

Precisely.

[Radio Host]

But Stribling called her, told her you had offered 20,000 cash. Yeah, she couldn't see topping your bid. What she'd have left out of 30 wouldn't be worth the risk. But she knew 20,000 in cash would be changing hands at Stribling's, so she went there with a gun to collect it. She figured if she couldn't protect her 30, she'd settle for your 20.

[Kendrick]

I see.

[Radio Host]

She knew Stripling would be in no position to call copper, so it seemed safe. Only he put up a struggle and she had to shoot him.

[Kendrick]

Ah. Huh. And just how did you know it was she?

[Radio Host]

Well, first of all, I didn't think it was you.

[Kendrick]

Flattering. Why not?

[Radio Host]

Well, you were just trying to clear yourself of one murder rap. I couldn't see you exposing yourself to another just to wipe out the first.

[Kendrick]

Very well, you've cleared me. Still, that doesn't prove you didn't do it.

[Radio Host]

I knew Marbury didn't.

[Kendrick]

How do you know Marbury didn't?

[Radio Host]

Because Stribling was killed at 7:40. And it so happens that at that exact time, Marbury was sitting across from me in a restaurant, keeping an eye on me. Oh, so that left Mrs. Orsotti. Of course, it was the outside chance that the job was pulled by someone not directly involved in the case. But I squashed that by giving Mrs. Orsotti a chance to finger Marbury.

[Kendrick]

And she fell for it?

[Radio Host]

Well, she figured the more fall guys she had lined up, the safer she'd be. But when she tried to place Marbury at Stribling's at the time of the shooting, that proved she was lying.

[Kendrick]

Very good, Waring. Very good indeed. And now here's your check.

[Radio Host]

Thank you.

[Kendrick]

And I guess that's just about all.

[Radio Host]

Just one more thing.

[Ed Hurley]

What's that?

[Radio Host]

What's the name of that cute little secretary of yours?

[Kendrick]

Her name? Oh, it's Mrs. Kendrick.

[Radio Host]

Oh, well, as you were saying, Kendrick, I guess that's just about all. So long.

[Ed Hurley]

Friends. America's defense program has placed on the Red Cross one of the greatest responsibilities it has ever had to assume. Now, in addition to day to day aid to the sick and injured, the Red Cross must extend its services to the men of our growing armed forces in camps and hospitals at home and overseas. Now, too, the Red Cross must recruit, train and equip millions of home defense volunteers in first aid and home nursing. And the Red Cross system of blood banks must be expanded to meet greater civilian and military needs. That's why Red Cross needs your help. By giving as generously as you can to the Red Cross, you are helping to mobilize for the defense of your family, your community, your country. This is NBC, the National Broadcasting Company.