The Falcon: The Case of the Worried Wife 04/01/1951

Summary

Summary of "The Falcon: The Case of the Worried Wife"

Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: The Falcon: The Case of the Worried Wife
Original Air Date: April 1, 1951
Release Date: April 10, 2025
Host: Choice Classic Radio

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Introduction

In this gripping episode of The Falcon, titled "The Case of the Worried Wife," listeners are immersed in a classic detective narrative set against the backdrop of 1950s New York City. The story intricately weaves themes of love, betrayal, and deception, showcasing the astute investigative skills of Mike Waring, alias The Falcon, portrayed by Les Damon. Joined by his loyal partner, Sergeant Corbett (Ken Lynch), The Falcon navigates a complex web of relationships to uncover the truth behind a mysterious attempted murder.

Plot Overview

The episode opens with Penny Layton, a distraught woman armed with a pistol, confronting Arnold Sheffield in his New York apartment. Penny's intentions appear malicious as she threatens Arnold, leading to a tense standoff. Despite the initial confrontation, Arnold manages to disarm Penny, temporarily averting disaster. However, the incident leaves lingering doubts about Penny's motives and whether she poses an ongoing threat.

The Confrontation

At [00:11], the episode transitions from advertisements to the live-action drama:

Penny Layton: "I'm gonna kill you, and then I'm gonna kill myself."
Arnold Sheffield: "Don't be ridiculous. Now, give me that gun."
Timestamp: [04:33]

This intense exchange sets the stage for the central mystery. Penny's aggressive demeanor suggests unresolved emotions and possible ulterior motives tied to Arnold's personal life.

Enter The Falcon

Concerned about the recent events and Arnold's dismissive attitude toward involving the police, Arnold's wife, Liza Sheffield, seeks the expertise of Mike Waring, The Falcon, to ensure her husband's safety. Liza's plea provides The Falcon with the necessary impetus to delve deeper into the case.

Liza Sheffield: "Penny wants to see him. He'll know what it's about."
Timestamp: [02:43]

Liza explains that while Arnold was in Florida, he developed a relationship with another woman, intensifying the complexity of the situation.

Investigating Arnold's Past

As The Falcon begins his investigation, he uncovers financial strains and potential motives involving Arnold's business dealings. A pivotal encounter occurs with Sergeant Corbett, who provides crucial information about financial discrepancies and the involvement of a character named Mara.

Sergeant Corbett: "Lionel got the gun away from her, and then he threw her out of the apartment."
Timestamp: [05:08]

Through these interactions, The Falcon pieces together the puzzle, identifying key players and their possible connections to the attempted murder.

Key Scenes and Developments

The Meeting with Liza Sheffield

At [08:03], The Falcon meets with Liza Sheffield to understand the gravity of the situation:

Liza Sheffield: "My husband, Arnold, spent December in Florida. While he was there, he started going with a girl, and I guess it was pretty serious."
Timestamp: [08:12]

This revelation highlights potential jealousy and complicity, suggesting deeper undercurrents in Arnold's personal life.

Unraveling Financial Motives

The plot thickens as The Falcon interacts with Sergeant Corbett regarding financial discrepancies related to Arnold's expenditures. Corbett's mention of a "receipted note" becomes a significant clue in uncovering the truth.

Sergeant Corbett: "Well, your note's been overdue for a long time. I don't think it's too much to ask."
Timestamp: [07:08]

This exchange points to possible financial motivations behind the attempted murder, hinting at blackmail and business conflicts.

The Revelation of Ballard's Involvement

A crucial turn occurs when The Falcon confronts Mr. Ballard, unveiling his role in the unfolding drama. Ballard's involvement in blackmailing Arnold and his indirect connection to Penny Layton emerge as central elements in solving the case.

Mike Waring: "He figured it was safe enough because he'd read in the paper about the Layton girl threatening Sheffield and he counted on her taking the rap."
Timestamp: [26:11]

This insight underscores Ballard's manipulative tactics and his integral role in the attempted murder plot.

Climax and Resolution

In the climactic segments, The Falcon and Sergeant Corbett trace Ballard's movements, leading to a confrontation that elucidates the true sequence of events. The involvement of Penny Layton becomes clear as Ballard's machinations are exposed, revealing his intent to eliminate threats to his blackmail scheme.

Sergeant Corbett: "Penny's been released at five."
Timestamp: [22:09]

The resolution ties all loose ends, confirming Ballard's culpability and ensuring that justice is served. The Falcon's relentless pursuit of truth and his strategic collaborations with authority figures culminate in the unraveling of the conspiracy.

Characters

• Mike Waring / The Falcon (Les Damon): The suave and intelligent detective at the center of the investigation, utilizing his keen observational skills to solve complex cases.
• Liza Sheffield (Liza Sheffield): Arnold Sheffield's concerned wife, whose desperation leads her to seek The Falcon's help.
• Sergeant Corbett (Ken Lynch): The Falcon's reliable partner, providing essential support and information throughout the investigation.
• Penny Layton (Liza Sheffield): The "worried wife," whose aggressive actions and hidden motives drive the central conflict.
• Mr. Ballard (Valard): A key antagonist involved in blackmailing Arnold Sheffield, orchestrating events to cover his tracks.

Notable Quotes

• Penny Layton: “I’m gonna kill you, and then I’m gonna kill myself.”
  Timestamp: [04:33]

• Mike Waring: “I wrote you it's all over.”
  Timestamp: [04:08]

• Sergeant Corbett: “Millionaire playboy needs money?”
  Timestamp: [06:51]

• Mike Waring: “You can't prove that. You forget that now that Sheffield is dead, she's willing to talk.”
  Timestamp: [25:12]

• Mike Waring: “Once I realized Ballard was up to the old game of blackmail, I knew all we had to do was follow him.”
  Timestamp: [27:01]

These quotes highlight key emotional and plot-driving moments, encapsulating the tension and strategizing central to the episode's narrative.

Conclusion

"The Case of the Worried Wife" exemplifies the classic elements of old-time radio detective stories, blending suspense, character depth, and intricate plotting. Through The Falcon's unwavering determination and sharp intellect, listeners are treated to a satisfying resolution that restores order and justice. This episode not only entertains but also reflects the societal dynamics and personal conflicts of its era, making it a timeless addition to the Adventures of the Falcon series.

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Transcript

[Mike Waring]

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

[Liza Sheffield]

Podbean.

[Mike Waring]

The AI powered all in one podcast platform. Thousands of businesses and enterprises trust Podbean to launch their podcasts. Launch your podcast on Podbean today. My school uses Podbean. My church too. I love it. I really do. 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] hello? Yes, this is the Falcon speaking. Oh, Denny, thanks for calling, but it can't be tonight, angel. I'm on the case of a guy who jilted a girl. You'd think it would break her heart, but instead of being sad about it, looks like she's trigger happy.

[Ed Hurley]

This is Ed Hurley. He friends inviting you on behalf of the Kraft Foods company to listen to the Adventures of the Falcon starring Wes 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 worried Wife. Before the Falcon solves today's case, I have a question for you. Have you tried Velveeta lately? Isn't that the finest cheese food you ever put in your mouth? That rich, yet mild cheddar cheese flavor is good. Really good eating. You see, Velveeta is made by Kraft. And that's something pretty important to remember because you and I know the Kraft name on cheese and cheese foods means the very finest you can buy. So remember this. There's no other cheese food like Kraft's pasteurized processed cheese food, Velveeta. Because Kraft, and only Kraft, makes Velveeta. And now, the case of the Worried Wife. It's Sunday night in New York when pretty dark haired Penny Layton pushes the button of an apartment overlooking East River. While she's waiting for someone to answer, Penny opens her handbag and takes out a small pistol. She closes the bag and thrusts her right hand in with the pistol into the pocket of her fur coat and gnaws nervously on her lip as she hears someone approach the door.

[Liza Sheffield]

Yes? Are you Mr. Sheffield? Yes. I want to see your husband. Well, what's it about? Just tell him Penny wants to see him. He'll know what it's about. All right, wait here. I'll see what he says. I'll wait inside. But I don't know. I said I'll wait inside. All right, now you can close the door. Wait right here. What are you waiting for? Who are you, anyway? I told you. Penny. Penny who? Ask Arnold. He'll tell you. And you can tell him I'm not leaving until I see him alone. All right, I'll tell him. Maybe he can explain.

[Mike Waring]

What?

[Liza Sheffield]

This is Arnold.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, yes, Liza. Who was it?

[Liza Sheffield]

Penny.

[Mike Waring]

Penny?

[Liza Sheffield]

Well, that's what she said. Who is she?

[Mike Waring]

Girl I knew in Florida. I. I don't want to see her.

[Liza Sheffield]

She says she won't go until you do see her. She's in the living room.

[Mike Waring]

All right. Might as well get it over with. You wait here. I'll get rid of her. Penny, what are you doing here?

[Liza Sheffield]

Why, Arnold, is that any way to greet me after I followed you all the way from Miami?

[Mike Waring]

I wrote you it's all over.

[Liza Sheffield]

I figured as much when I saw in the paper you got married. That's why I came up.

[Mike Waring]

What do you hope to gain?

[Liza Sheffield]

For one thing, I wanted to see her. She's pretty.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, thank you.

[Liza Sheffield]

I'd never have forgiven you if you turned me down for a horse face.

[Mike Waring]

Yes, she's pretty, and I'm in love with her. There's nothing more for you and me. So why don't you be a good girl and just run along? Be sensible.

[Liza Sheffield]

You call it sensible to give up the man I love to somebody else?

[Mike Waring]

You don't love me.

[Liza Sheffield]

That's right, Arnold, I don't. But I did, so I'm not giving you up so easy.

[Mike Waring]

There's nothing you can do.

[Liza Sheffield]

Isn't there?

[Mike Waring]

You little fool. Be careful.

[Liza Sheffield]

She's not gonna have you. Arnold. I'm gonna kill you, and then I'm gonna kill myself.

[Mike Waring]

Don't be ridiculous. Now, give me that gun.

[Liza Sheffield]

Stay back, Arnold. Don't try to kill it. Give it.

[Mike Waring]

Let's go. When you drop the gun.

[Liza Sheffield]

Arnold. Arnold, what happened?

[Mike Waring]

I'm just trying to teach Penny not to play with guns. The bullet went into that chair. No great damage done. Now, Penny, you'd better get out of here.

[Liza Sheffield]

You'll be sorry about this.

[Mike Waring]

I am sorry. I thought you had better sense. Now, good night. More coffee, darling?

[Liza Sheffield]

No, thanks. Arnold. I couldn't get that girl out of my mind all night.

[Mike Waring]

No, stop worrying about it.

[Liza Sheffield]

But suppose she comes back?

[Mike Waring]

She won't come back.

[Liza Sheffield]

You can't be sure. Maybe we better call the police.

[Mike Waring]

Why? I don't want to make trouble for her.

[Liza Sheffield]

Oh, you know. Still, I mean, it's all over. You're sure there's never.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, for heaven's sake. Darling, don't be ridiculous.

[Liza Sheffield]

She must have cared an awful lot to follow you all the way here.

[Mike Waring]

Yes, I suppose she did.

[Liza Sheffield]

You must have done something to make her care.

[Ed Hurley]

Will you stop worrying about it?

[Mike Waring]

It's all over.

[Liza Sheffield]

I hope you're right.

[Mike Waring]

Now, look, if there was any question about it, last night certainly settled it. You don't think I could be interested in her after that, do you?

[Liza Sheffield]

I hope not. You sure she won't come back?

[Mike Waring]

Yes, I'm sure. She worked herself up to a pitch. When nothing came of it, she was bound to cool off.

[Liza Sheffield]

Maybe, but I'd feel happier if you'd tell the police.

[Mike Waring]

Darling, will you answer one question?

[Liza Sheffield]

What?

[Mike Waring]

Are you afraid that if she comes back she'll try to kill me again? Or are you afraid that this time she won't? Hello, Mara. Ringing along.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Hello, Sheffield.

[Mike Waring]

I'll join you.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Okay. Hey, you're looking good. Guess marriage agrees with him.

[Ed Hurley]

Best graduates.

[Mike Waring]

Great institution. I'm all for it, but it has got its little problems. That's why I'm looking for you. Oh, looking for me? I thought this was a coincidence. No, no, I need my money. You need money?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Millionaire playboy needs money?

[Mike Waring]

Well, you say most of my cash is tied up. And I really went overboard on the wedding and the honeymoon.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I always heard two could live as cheap as one.

[Mike Waring]

Try it sometime and I have enough trouble. Well, I hate to add to it, Mara, but I'm going to have to insist on my money.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, I don't know what I can do. Things haven't been going so hot.

[Mike Waring]

I don't like to put the heat on you, but. Well, your note's been overdue for a long time. I don't think it's too much to ask.

[Sergeant Corbett]

That's right. You gotta have your champagne, your private space.

[Mike Waring]

What kind of an attitude is that?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, it's my attitude, sir.

[Mike Waring]

You've been drinking too much.

[Sergeant Corbett]

That's right.

[Mike Waring]

I'm just a no good drunk. Now look, I lent you that money in good faith. You had big ideas. It's not my fault they didn't pan out.

[Sergeant Corbett]

That's right, Papa, give me a lecture.

[Mike Waring]

Don't worry, pal, I will. When you're sober enough to know what I'm talking about.

[Sergeant Corbett]

It'll be a long wait.

[Mike Waring]

It better not be. We're going to get this settled. Of course, Sheffield. We'll get it settled for keeps. Hello.

[Liza Sheffield]

Are you Michael Waring, the detective called the Falcon?

[Mike Waring]

That's right.

[Liza Sheffield]

Well, thank heavens. I had the awfulest time finding you. Don't you have an office?

[Mike Waring]

No.

[Liza Sheffield]

Why not?

[Mike Waring]

Well, if I had an office, I'd have to have a beautiful blonde secretary. If I had a beautiful blonde secretary, I'd have trouble keeping my mind on my work. And if I didn't keep my mind on my work, I'd lose business. Then I wouldn't be able to pay the rent, so I'd lose the office. So I just saved myself the trouble. Come in.

[Liza Sheffield]

Thank you.

[Mike Waring]

Your name?

[Liza Sheffield]

Liza Sheffield.

[Mike Waring]

What can I do for you?

[Liza Sheffield]

My husband, Arnold spent December in Florida.

[Mike Waring]

You didn't go with him?

[Liza Sheffield]

But we weren't married then. In fact, we didn't even know we were going to be. But while he was there, he started going with a girl, and I guess it was pretty serious. Last night she showed up in New York and she tried to kill Arnold.

[Mike Waring]

Tried to?

[Liza Sheffield]

Lionel got the gun away from her, and then he threw her out of the apartment. Well, I'm afraid she may come back. I asked my husband to notify the police, but he refused. He says he doesn't want to make any trouble for the girl. That's why I came to you.

[Mike Waring]

What do you want me to do?

[Liza Sheffield]

Well, I thought if you could find the girl and talk to her.

[Mike Waring]

What do you want me to say to her?

[Liza Sheffield]

I don't know. Find out what she's planning to do.

[Mike Waring]

Where is she staying?

[Liza Sheffield]

I don't know.

[Mike Waring]

What's her name?

[Liza Sheffield]

Penny something. I don't know her last name.

[Mike Waring]

You don't know her name, you don't know where she's staying. You don't know exactly what you want me to say to her. This is the sort of case I love.

[Liza Sheffield]

Well, if it was easy, I wouldn't. I wouldn't need the falcon.

[Mike Waring]

I think I better have a talk with your husband.

[Liza Sheffield]

No.

[Mike Waring]

He can fill in some of the.

[Liza Sheffield]

Details, but he may be angry about my hiring you. I don't want him to know if.

[Mike Waring]

You can't give me anything more to go on.

[Liza Sheffield]

I thought you were supposed to be such a good detective.

[Mike Waring]

Well, I won't argue that point. But even Sherlock Holmes wouldn't guarantee quick results with what you've given me.

[Liza Sheffield]

Well, do the best you can.

[Mike Waring]

What happens if Penny catches up with your husband while I'm still looking for him? She'd kill him, wouldn't she?

[Liza Sheffield]

That's right.

[Mike Waring]

Well, then, angel, do I go see your husband or don't I?

[Liza Sheffield]

You win. Mr. Waring. Come on.

[Ed Hurley]

This is Ed Hurley. He friends? Well, now, Mike won his wing, all right. And, you know, I'll bet you mothers would certainly like to win your way too when it comes to getting your family to eat those green vegetables that.

[Mike Waring]

Are so good for them.

[Ed Hurley]

And you can just glamorize those vegetables a little by melting delicious Velveeta crafts famous pasteurized processed cheese food for a smooth golden cheese sauce to pour over them. And it's such an easy sauce to make. All you do is melt a half pound of Velveeta in the top of your double boiler. There's no need to cut it in little pieces because Velveeta melts easily and smoothly without any lumps at all. Then simply stir in a quarter cup of milk season and there you have a perfectly wonderful cheese sauce that'll add Velveeta's fine, rich yet mild cheddar cheese flavor to cauliflower or spinach or broccoli. Velveeta makes them taste better than ever. And you'll be giving your family extra nourishment this way too. Because Velveeta is so rich in important food values from milk, even the smallest youngsters can enjoy their vegetables a la Velveeta because Velveeta is digestible as milk itself. So mother, make it your handy helper. Get Velveeta in the economical two pound loaf so you'll have plenty for cold snacks and sandwiches too. Just be sure you get genuine Velveeta. It's the pasteurized processed cheese food of top quality made only by Kraft. Now back to the Adventures of the falcon. 20 minutes have passed since Mike and Liza Sheffield started for the Sheffield apartment to see whether Liza's husband Arnold would object to his wife's efforts to keep him alive. Now as they approach the apartment, they see a shock faced little man standing at the door.

[Liza Sheffield]

Oh, dear. Mr. Ballard.

[Mike Waring]

Unwelcome guest.

[Liza Sheffield]

Very.

[Mike Waring]

Hello, Liza. No wonder you didn't answer the door.

[Liza Sheffield]

Have you been ringing?

[Mike Waring]

Yes.

[Liza Sheffield]

Funny, I thought Arnold was home. Well, he ought to be here pretty soon. You can come and wait, Mr. Waring.

[Mike Waring]

Right.

[Liza Sheffield]

As for you, Mr. Ballard, I can't see you now. I'm going to be busy.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, I'll wait.

[Liza Sheffield]

Call me tomorrow if you want to talk to me.

[Mike Waring]

Now is that any way to treat an old fellow?

[Liza Sheffield]

Please, I haven't time.

[Mike Waring]

Only take a minute.

[Liza Sheffield]

But I don't have anything for you now. Call me in the morning.

[Mike Waring]

Now look, I want to get things set.

[Liza Sheffield]

All right, tomorrow.

[Mike Waring]

Now you heard what the lady said. Tomorrow. Scram. Listen, mister. I said scram. Okay, okay, okay. You don't have to get tough.

[Ed Hurley]

I'm going.

[Mike Waring]

I'M going. What's with him?

[Liza Sheffield]

Oh, he's just somebody I used to know. Not important now. Come on, let's go in.

[Mike Waring]

He's not exactly the sort of character that I would. What's the matter? Uh, oh. Is this your husband? Well, Mr. Sheffield, I'm afraid we're too late. He's dead.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Homicide, Sergeant Corbett speaking.

[Mike Waring]

Hello, bright eyes.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Oh, it sounds like Mike Waring.

[Mike Waring]

What do you know? He's a detective.

[Sergeant Corbett]

What do you want wearing?

[Mike Waring]

Got a corpse for you.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I'm busy. Why did you have to dig one up today?

[Mike Waring]

I didn't dig him up. He hasn't been buried yet.

[Sergeant Corbett]

The boy's sharp.

[Mike Waring]

Anything to brighten your day. Corbett. How soon can you get here?

[Sergeant Corbett]

As soon as I finish my report. You're not the only one who finds bodies.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, you got another?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yeah, and I bet she's cuter than yours.

[Mike Waring]

Could be.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Of course, she may not be as dead, but she made a good try.

[Mike Waring]

Suicide attempt?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yeah, I jumped out of the four story window. All because some guy gave her the brush. Love, it's wonderful.

[Mike Waring]

She leave a note?

[Sergeant Corbett]

No, I talked to her. She bounced off an awning. Doc says she'll live.

[Mike Waring]

What's her name?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Penny Layton. Why Penny? Yeah.

[Mike Waring]

Hey, could be a package deal.

[Ed Hurley]

Let's get together.

[Mike Waring]

Maybe we can wrap it up. Podbean, your message amplified. Ready to share your message with the world. Start your podcast journey with Podbean. Podbean, the AI powered all in one podcast platform. Thousands of businesses and enterprises trust Podbean to launch their podcasts. Use Podbean to record your podcast. Use PodBean AI to optimize your podcast. Use PodBean AI to turn your blog into a podcast. Use Podbean to distribute your podcast everywhere. Launch your podcast on Podbean today.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Right in here.

[Mike Waring]

Okay.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, There she is. Mrs. Sheffield.

[Liza Sheffield]

Yes. No question about it. That's the girl. Well, Mrs. Sheffield, what's this all about, Sergeant?

[Mike Waring]

You.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You threatened to kill her husband last night.

[Liza Sheffield]

You don't have to worry. I won't try again. Just want to die.

[Sergeant Corbett]

We know you won't try again. What we want to know is, did you.

[Liza Sheffield]

What?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Did you go back to Sheffield's today?

[Liza Sheffield]

Of course not. Why do you ask that?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Never mind. Come on, Mrs. Sheffield.

[Liza Sheffield]

She killed him. I know she did.

[Mike Waring]

Well, that meant she got another gun. Why didn't she shoot herself instead of jumping?

[Liza Sheffield]

Maybe she counted on the awning saving.

[Mike Waring]

Her a four story jump. I don't think so.

[Liza Sheffield]

But she must have killed him. Who else would have done It?

[Mike Waring]

How about your slimy little pal who.

[Liza Sheffield]

Validated why he had nothing to do with Arnold?

[Mike Waring]

What did he want?

[Liza Sheffield]

I tell you, it had nothing to do with this.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Who is this we're talking about? Waring.

[Mike Waring]

A character who was very determined to see Mrs. Sheffield today.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Ah. Want to tell us what he wanted?

[Liza Sheffield]

Mrs. Sheffield, it has nothing to do with the murder.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Would you let us decide that?

[Mike Waring]

Was it blackmail?

[Liza Sheffield]

What makes you think that?

[Mike Waring]

Well, it certainly wasn't a friendly visit. And you said you didn't have anything for him. What would he be expecting from you?

[Liza Sheffield]

Well, it doesn't matter. I wish you'd believe that.

[Mike Waring]

Okay, if you won't tell me, I know somebody else. Who May.

[Liza Sheffield]

Who?

[Mike Waring]

Ballard. Oh, it's Liza's friend. Hello, Balin. What do you want with me? What you wanted with Liza. Didn't she tell you? You think I came here because your company is so charming? I don't know why you came here. Who are you, anyway? Mike Waring. The Falcon. That's right. Did Liza hire you? Mm. Why? To find out a few things. Not about me. She knows about me. She doesn't know if you were coming or going when we met you at the door today. And what difference does it make? Well, if you really don't know, it doesn't make any. Now, look, Werner, you're tell me what you want, or you're going to get out of here. All right, Valard. What did you want to see Sheffield about? I didn't want to see Sheffield.

[Ed Hurley]

I didn't see him.

[Mike Waring]

Well, somebody did. With a gun. Oh, so that's it. That's it. Well, it wasn't me. You could have believed that. Maybe I do. But you strike me as a sort of character who sticks his nose into things. So if you really want to clear yourself, here's a chance to put the knot on somebody else for the honor. Yeah. Have you tried Mara? Who's Mara? Joe Mara. He borrowed a Mitfeld from Sheffield to open a pool hall. It folded. I was thinking, what if Sheffield wanted his money and Mara couldn't pay? It's a thought. Where do I find Mara? You might find him at Freddy's Bar on 43rd Street. Only please don't tell him I tipped you. No, I won't breathe a word. I hope not. Because if you do, I could stop breathing for keeps. There it is. The next block. Yeah, I see it. We made pretty good time, huh? Hadn't made any better time. You'd be doing time. No, I'm fast, but I'm careful. Well, don't put down your flag. If my man isn't in there, I'll be right out. Okay, but what if he is in there? Wait anyway. It may not take too long. Right.

[Ed Hurley]

Hey, mister.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Look out.

[Ed Hurley]

Mister.

[Mike Waring]

Mister, are you all right? Yeah. When you shot it, I dropped. Yeah. Those shots came from that alley. Yeah, I know. You get back. There may be more. I'll go. See anyone? No, the alley's empty. Did you get a look at who fired those shots?

[Sergeant Corbett]

No.

[Mike Waring]

Whoever it was was standing close to the building in the alley. All I saw was the hand with the gun in it come around the edge of the building and I hollered. Could you tell if it was a man or a woman? I wouldn't know. Like I say, all I saw. I know a hand with a gun. I hope whoever it was thinks he got me. I'm not anxious to have him try. Try again.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Hello.

[Mike Waring]

Are you Joe Merrill? Huh?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Oh, Waring.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah. You seem surprised to see me. What's the matter? Do you think I was lying in a gutter with a couple of slugs in me?

[Sergeant Corbett]

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

[Mike Waring]

I have your description. Maybe you get mine.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I don't.

[Mike Waring]

I hope not, for your sake. How come you know my name?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Everybody knows the Falcon.

[Mike Waring]

I'm naturally a very modest guy, but even I can't help thinking there are a couple of people who don't know me.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, I'm not one of them.

[Mike Waring]

All right, but how did you know I was looking for you? I didn't. I asked for you at Freddy's Bar. They told me you left there 10 minutes before I got there.

[Sergeant Corbett]

No, I wanted to get cleaned up, so I wanted to have dinner. That's a crime.

[Mike Waring]

Did someone tip you I was coming? What makes you think you'd start me rolling? I know about you in Sheffield.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Huh? What about me in Sheffield?

[Mike Waring]

You're in hoc to him.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You got your tenses wrong, Waring. I was in hoc ton.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, you paid him off. That's right. When today? Would it have been this afternoon around 3:30?

[Sergeant Corbett]

It would have been this morning around 10.

[Mike Waring]

And you can prove your patent? Yeah.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Here.

[Mike Waring]

Here's the receipted note.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Now, just what are you trying to prove?

[Mike Waring]

I don't know what I'm trying to prove, but it looks like I have proved that a certain character named Ballard is going to have to improve his singing. Looks like he's way off.

[Ed Hurley]

This is Ed Herli again, friends. Well, now, maybe Mike isn't quite sure what he's trying to Prove. But I'm sure of what I'm trying to prove. And what's more, I can do it with your help. All you have to do is this. Make yourself a big hearty sandwich of your favorite kind of bread, spread with a little Kraft mayonnaise and filled with a good thick slice of Velveeta, Kraft's delicious pasteurized processed cheese food. Now take a bite and see for yourself if what I'm trying to prove isn't true. That Velveeta is especially good tasting with a fine, rich, yet mild cheddar cheese flavor. And Velveeta is good for you too, because it's so rich in important food values from milk. These good Velveeta sandwiches are perfect for everyone, even the youngest children, any time of day, because Velveeta is digestible as milk itself. So make Velveeta your handy helper for delicious snacks and sandwiches. And for fine hot dishes too. Get genuine Velveeta made by Kraft. Now back to the Adventures of the Falcon. It's 20 minutes since Ballard's lead led Mike no place. Now the Falcon has dropped in on Sergeant Corbett to swap information. And Corbett seems to be enjoying Mike's report of his interview with Mara.

[Sergeant Corbett]

So you went off half cock wearing, huh?

[Mike Waring]

All right, all right, before you break a rib laughing. I still think it's Mara.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Where's his motive if he paid off Sheffield?

[Mike Waring]

I don't know. But it must have been the murderer who shot at me. And that couldn't have been either of the girls.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Why not?

[Mike Waring]

Well, you were questioning Mrs. Sheffield.

[Sergeant Corbett]

What time were you shot at Waring?

[Mike Waring]

About quarter to six.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I left the Sheffield woman a little after five.

[Mike Waring]

Well, at least it couldn't have been Magnolia Blossom. She's in the hospital.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I have news for you, Waring.

[Mike Waring]

Well, don't tell me.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Penny's been released at five.

[Mike Waring]

Isn't that just peachy?

[Sergeant Corbett]

And then there's Ballard himself.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah, tell me something about Ballard. Did you learn any more about him from Mrs. Sheffield?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yeah, when you said you were going to see him, she cracked. Admitted he's been blackmailing her.

[Mike Waring]

I thought so. Glad I was right about something. What did he have on her?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Scandal in her past. She didn't want Sheffield to know about it.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, the little guy likes sweat money.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Hey, what's the matter?

[Mike Waring]

The tip off could have been to protect his pickings.

[Sergeant Corbett]

What now?

[Mike Waring]

We better go see Ballard. I have an idea he can give us the answers we're looking for. Yeah, yeah, but we better hurry because we want Ballard to Talk. And they say dead men don't.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, here we are.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Wait.

[Mike Waring]

Wait a minute. Don't get out of the car right now. Look, Bella's just coming out.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Oh, yeah.

[Mike Waring]

If he doesn't notice us, maybe we can follow him.

[Sergeant Corbett]

He didn't see us. I'll let him get a little lead and then I'll follow.

[Mike Waring]

Right. You better start your motor. He's hailing a taxi.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yeah.

[Mike Waring]

Wonder where he's going.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, there's one way to find out. Don't want to follow too close. Hey, of all the dumb drivers. Did you see that guy cut out right in front of me to a police car yet?

[Mike Waring]

Never mind him. The taxi just turned the next corner. We better get going.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yeah.

[Mike Waring]

Hey, the guy who cut in front of you is turning at the corner too. See?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Following Fowler, too. Could be.

[Mike Waring]

Makes a nice parade, huh?

[Sergeant Corbett]

Look behind us. Wearing.

[Mike Waring]

Well, what for?

[Sergeant Corbett]

I just wonder if anybody's following us.

[Mike Waring]

They're already in the elevator. Hope we haven't lost them.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Well, they came into this building. Where would they be going except up to see Mrs. Sheffield?

[Mike Waring]

But that was Mara following Ballard. I recognized him when he got out of the car.

[Sergeant Corbett]

So what?

[Mike Waring]

Look at the elevator indicator.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Basement.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah. That's not Sheffield's. Unless she's moved since this afternoon.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Push the button. Wonder what they're doing down there.

[Mike Waring]

That's not a maple dance. You can bet on that.

[Sergeant Corbett]

All right. They're slugging it out. Why?

[Mike Waring]

Mara wants to find out what Ballard knows. Here we are. Get in.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Okay. But I still don't see how you figure it. Waring. Ballard knows about Mrs. Sheffield's past. But what's that got to do with Mara? Nothing gets clearer all the time.

[Mike Waring]

But we haven't time to discuss it now. Here we are.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Here they are. Come on. All right, Mara, that's enough. Let him go. Where did you that gun? Then we'll go on. Drop it. You want to see if I'm only kidding with this one? Okay. There you are. Pick it up, Waring. Now, what's going on here?

[Ed Hurley]

He was trying to kill me.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Guy's lying. I was trying to make him talk. About what? The papers say Sheffield was murdered. Waring was asking me about it. Ballard must have figured me, and I wanted to know why.

[Mike Waring]

He put a gun on my back. He made me come down here in the basement. We know that, Ballard. And there are a couple of other things. We know that you were blackmailing Mr. Sheffield, for instance. You can't prove that. You forget that now that Sheffield is dead, she's willing to talk. And we can certainly prove you're at the apartment today around the time of the murder. Because I saw you. I was there after the murder. Maybe. Anyway, you better go along with Sergeant Corbett. Now wait a minute, wait a minute. I didn't kill Sheffield. I didn't say you did. But you know who did. And when you talk. Come on, Mara.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Come back here. I said come back here.

[Mike Waring]

You're not going anywhere. Except with Corba too. Cause Mara, you're the murderer. I'm sorry to spoil a little joke. Corbett loves Mara after all.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Doesn't your arm ever get tired wearing from what? Patting yourself on the back?

[Mike Waring]

Well, I'd just like to give credit where credit is due.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You weren't so sure it was Mara yourself when you saw that receipt.

[Mike Waring]

Well, I admitted through me for a while, but I bounced back.

[Sergeant Corbett]

It's cute of Mara. Sheffield wants his money, so Mara scrapes it up, gives it to him, gets a receipt for it, then plugs Sheffield and takes back the money.

[Mike Waring]

Uh huh. He figured it was safe enough because he'd read in the paper about the Layton girl threatening Sheffield and he counted on her taking the rap. He might have gotten away with it too if Ballard hadn't queered the deal.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yeah, in fact, I still don't think you solved this one Waring. We were simply lucky that by following Ballard we happened to stumble on Mara.

[Mike Waring]

Well, that's what I was counting on.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yeah, yeah, sweetheart.

[Mike Waring]

See, I knew that Ballard had tipped off the who shot at me.

[Sergeant Corbett]

How did you know that?

[Mike Waring]

Because the person was waiting for me at Freddy's Bar. That meant he had to know where I'd be going and Ballard was the only one who knew.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Couldn't it have been Ballard himself who was waiting?

[Mike Waring]

No, because I went straight to Freddy's from Ballard's and my driver drove fast. Ballard could never have beaten me there.

[Sergeant Corbett]

All right, it wasn't Ballard.

[Mike Waring]

But it was somebody who had been tipped off by Ballard. At first I thought it was somebody working with him, but confirmed my suspicions about him being a blackmailer. I changed my idea.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You figured Ballard was following a pattern and blackmailing again.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah, that's right. He was on the scene at the time of the murder. It was perfectly possible for him to have seen the murderer leave the apartment. So I figured it was blackmail and he tipped the murderer that I knew too much so the murderer could get rid of me. He didn't want me nabbing the killer and spoiling his chance for blackmail.

[Sergeant Corbett]

But Ballard's the one who put you onto Mara in the first place.

[Mike Waring]

I know, I know. He could rattle when I was accusing him and try to get out from under. But after I left, he couldn't see that nice opportunity for black veil going out the window.

[Sergeant Corbett]

I say, well, that's all there is to it.

[Mike Waring]

Once I realized Ballard was up to the old game of blackmail, I knew all we had to do was follow him. And sooner or later we crossed paths with the murderer.

[Sergeant Corbett]

Yeah, Waring, it all adds up. Except couldn't Mara have been telling the truth when he said all he was trying to do was find out why Ballard sicked you on him?

[Mike Waring]

How did he know Ballard was the one who steered me to him? No, Corbett. A mare named Ballard, he put his head in a noose.

[Sergeant Corbett]

You've got the wrong metaphor, Waring. In this state, it's not the noose, it's the electric chair.

[Mike Waring]

Well, in that case, hanging around for good night, Corbett. This is Mike Waring. Friends, our forum programs bring you stories of the detection and prevention of crime. And right now I'd like to say another word or two about preventing crime. You can help. You know, you needn't give money. Just give your sincere support to the Boys Clubs of America. These clubs build good citizens with strong, healthy bodies and minds. Boys who are completely honest, who respect property and individual rights and who realize that America is a land of opportunity if you're willing to learn and work and try hard. These non sectarian nonprofit Boys Clubs are operated by groups of public spirited adults so that boys from 8 to 20 can enjoy the right kind of recreation and companionship in their own clubhouses. If you and your neighbors would like to establish a Boys Club in your community, get in touch with the Boys Clubs of America for help. Think about it, won't you? Thanks a lot.

[Ed Hurley]

The Case of the Carved Hem. The Case of the Carved Hem. That's the title of next week's Adventure of the Falcon when Mike Waring learns sometimes a gun and change a great comedian into a bad actor. So be sure to listen at this same time next week to another exciting Adventure of the Falcon, brought to you by the Craft Foods Company. The Adventures of the Falcon are based on the famous character created by Drexel Drake, produced by Bernard L. Shubert, written today by Jerome Epstein and directed by Richard Lewis. Music was by Arlo. Les Damon was starred as the Falcon with Ken lynch as Sergeant Corbett. Be sure to hear the great Gilda sleeve 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 and 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.

[Mike Waring]

Foreign.

[Ed Hurley]

Tonight, Theater Guild presents the exciting Fallen Idol on NBC.