The Shadow: Sabotage 01/16/1938

Summary

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Podcast Summary: Choice Classic Radio Detectives – "The Shadow: Sabotage" (Original Airdate: 01/16/1938)

Episode Overview

In this thrilling episode from the Golden Age of Radio, "The Shadow: Sabotage," the mysterious and elusive hero known as The Shadow investigates a string of deadly sabotages targeting United States naval vessels. As ships explode and suspicions of treachery swirl, Lamont Cranston (The Shadow) races against time to unmask the mastermind before another devastating act occurs. The episode blends psychological drama, tense confrontations, and patriotic urgency—showcasing The Shadow's unique powers of invisibility and mind-reading.

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Key Discussion Points & Episode Breakdown

1. Outbreak of Sabotage in Naval Yards

• Explosions Aboard Ships: The episode opens with chaos—multiple naval vessels experience catastrophic explosions, resulting in significant casualties. The dialogue underscores panic and urgency, with repeated suspicions of sabotage ([01:48]–[02:23]).
• Press Conference: Admiral Tealey informs the press that all sabotaged ships were built or repaired at the Sag Island yard, focusing the investigation on this location ([03:46]–[04:19]).
  • Quote:
    "Every resource at the command of the government is being directed toward the apprehension of those responsible for the systematic blows at the naval defense strength of the United States." – Admiral, [03:54]

2. The Shadow Enters the Investigation

• Lamont Cranston Returns: Margot Lane confronts Lamont about his whereabouts. He reveals he has been undercover at Sag Island on the trail of the saboteurs ([04:19]–[04:46]).
  • Quote:
    "It seemed to be a case where the Shadow might be of some use to his country." – Lamont Cranston, [04:34]
• The Shadow’s Power: Discussion of the Shadow's ability to become invisible and read minds—setting the tone for his investigative approach ([04:50]–[05:03]).

3. Buckler’s Tenuous Loyalty

• Confrontation in the Bar: The Shadow corners Steve Buckler, a reluctant saboteur hired by Arnheim. Using his psychic abilities, The Shadow pressures Buckler to stop his criminal activities ([06:17]–[09:24]).
  • Quotes:
    • "You're a traitor. You're selling your birthright, your honor, your country's safety for money you'll never live to collect." – The Shadow, [08:23]
    • "I'm going to give you one more chance, Steve Buckler. One last chance." – The Shadow, [09:24]

4. The Saboteur’s Predicament

• Buckler’s Crisis: Buckler, panicked by the Shadow’s intervention, pleads with Rigo (Arnheim’s henchman) to be allowed to flee after his latest task ([11:48]–[12:00]).
• Assigned a Final Sabotage: Despite his pleas, Buckler is forced to plant a tube of nitroglycerin in the turbines of a new battle cruiser, under Rigo’s watch ([13:01]–[14:35]).
  • Quote:
    "You're going aboard the cruiser and plant that inside... Just enough nitroglycerin to tear the turbines out of the cruiser." – Rigo, [13:47]

5. The Shadow Foils the Plot

• Thwarting Disaster: The Shadow discreetly removes the nitroglycerin from the turbine, preventing a massacre ([16:16]).
  • Quote:
    "As soon as I've removed this tube of nitroglycerin that Buckler put in the turbine..." – The Shadow, [16:16]
• Chase to the Mastermind: Margot trails Rigo's black sedan to Redland Sanitarium, where Dr. Felix Arnheim—the true brains behind the ring—is hiding ([17:25]–[17:40]).

6. Showdown at Redland Sanitarium

• Betrayal and Greed: Buckler demands his payment from Arnheim, threatening with a bottle of nitroglycerin (which Arnheim sees through as a bluff) ([19:48]–[20:38]).
• Buckler’s Fate: Arnheim orders Rigo to kill Buckler, and the double-crossing saboteur is murdered ([21:04]).
• Arnheim vs. The Shadow: The Shadow confronts Arnheim. Arnheim releases gas in the sealed room hoping to force The Shadow visible, planning to shoot him ([22:52]–[24:47]).
  • Quotes:
    • “You could be very valuable to me, Shadow.” – Arnheim, [23:35]
    • “Money won’t help you.” – The Shadow, [23:52]
    • "Just enough gas will be liberated to numb your powers of concentration... And the moment I see you, the moment I catch the faintest glimpse of a shadowy form, I shoot." – Arnheim, [24:04]–[24:47]

7. Justice Served

• Police Close In: As police storm the estate, Arnheim and Rigo attempt to escape via speedboat, but The Shadow’s warning comes true: he has boobytrapped their only escape with their own nitroglycerin ([25:29]–[26:12]).
  • Quote:
    "Don't try to escape in that speedboat. I have turned it into a death trap, Dr. Arnheim." – The Shadow, [25:56]
• ‘Poetic’ End: A final explosion signals the demise of the sabotage ring ([26:48]).
  • Quote:
    "There will be no more wrecking of warships... It was the tube of nitroglycerin intended for the new battle cruiser... placed in the gears of the good doctor's own speedboat, with the compliments of The Shadow." – The Shadow, [26:54]–[27:25]

8. Iconic Closing Note

• The Shadow’s Eternal Warning:
  • "The weed of crime bears bitter fruit. Crime does not pay. The Shadow knows." – The Shadow, [29:33]

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• The Shadow flashes his moral clarity and chilling authority throughout:
  • "You're a traitor. You're selling your birthright, your honor, your country's safety for money you'll never live to collect." ([08:23])
  • "I'm going to give you one more chance, Steve Buckler. One last chance." ([09:24])
• Arnheim’s villainous intellect is showcased:
  • "Here is a luxury I do not allow myself, Shadow." ([23:17])
  • "Money I can pay well." ([23:43])
  • His methodical use of gas to reveal The Shadow underscores classic pulp villainy ([24:00]–[24:47]).
• The final explosion acts as poetic justice, with The Shadow reminding listeners of his presence and of justice prevailing over evil.

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Timestamps for Important Segments

• 01:48–04:19: Series of sabotage incidents and press conference
• 04:19–05:03: Lamont Cranston’s entry; reveal of The Shadow’s powers
• 06:17–09:24: The Shadow confronts Steve Buckler in the bar and alley
• 13:01–14:35: Rigo's coercion of Buckler for a final sabotage attempt
• 16:16: The Shadow removes the explosive, foiling the plot
• 17:25–17:40: Margot and Lamont stalk the black sedan to Arnheim’s lair
• 19:48–21:04: Buckler confronts Arnheim and is killed
• 22:52–24:47: Final confrontation between The Shadow and Dr. Arnheim
• 26:48–27:25: Finale: explosion in the speedboat; The Shadow's triumphant monologue
• 29:33: The Shadow’s iconic sign-off

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Episode Takeaways

This episode captures the mood of pre-war America—heightened vigilance, sabotage fears, and a demand for exceptional heroes. "Sabotage" is a tightly-woven, suspenseful melodrama, with The Shadow's mysterious abilities providing an edge over both the police and criminals. The pacing blends detection, action, and psychological drama, bringing listeners a riveting tale from the heights of classic radio. The message is crystal clear: crime does not pay—because The Shadow knows.

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Transcript

[Steve Buckler]

Welcome to Choice Classic Radio, where we.

[The Shadow]

Bring to you the greatest old time radio shows like us on Facebook, subscribe to us on YouTube and thank you for [e-mail]. The Shadow knows.

[Narrator]

Lou Cole presents the Shadow. The mystery man who strikes terror into the very hearts of shopsters, lawbreakers and criminals. Today's story, Sabotage. Today's exciting adventure with the Shadows starts in just a moment. But first I'd like to say a few words about health. Over 50% of all family colds can be traced to uneven heat or overheating in the home. So protect your family's health by burning blue coal, America's finest anthracite. Then you will be sure of steady, lasting, healthful heat at less cost. The next time you order fuel, ask for blue coal by name. You don't have to get a full supply. Your nearest blue coal dealer will be glad to send you a trial tonight. Phone him tomorrow.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

Engine room, standby for test number 11.

[Steve Buckler]

Engine room standing by, Commander.

[Narrator]

Shit.

[Lieutenant]

Full speed ahead.

[Steve Buckler]

What?

[Lieutenant]

Engine room.

[Narrator]

Hello?

[Rigo]

Hello?

[Lieutenant]

Engine room? Chief engineer Swain reporting boiler explosion, sir. Three casualties, sir.

[Margot Lane]

Good Lord.

[Lieutenant]

What happened, Commander? Boiler explosion, Lieutenant. Hard luck, sir.

[Steve Buckler]

Luck nothing.

[Lieutenant]

You mean another case of sabotage?

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

Yes.

[Lieutenant]

Sabotage. Submarine L21 calling submarine base. Submarine L21 calling submarine base.

[Steve Buckler]

Submarine base answering L21. Go ahead, L21.

[Lieutenant]

Submarine L21 in distress. Submarine L21 down off Diamond Head cannot rise. Emergency. Emergency. Pumps damaged. Looks like sabotage. Looks like sabotage. Cruiser returning to base. Cruiser returning to base. Explosion. Explosion in after gun turret. Three dead, six wounded. Suspect sabotage. Suspect sabotage. Good Lord. Hello, Hello? Hello? Sentry post number four reporting explosion and fire. Explosion of fire and destroyer dry dock. Sag Island Shipyard. Sag Island Shipyard. X3x3 sabotage rings break Sag island ship guard. Read all about it. Mysterious explosion and fire. Right. Fire extreme. Hey, fellas, here's Admiral Tealey now. Well, what are the findings of the board, Admiral? Yeah, Admiral, what's the dope on this sabotage ring?

[Narrator]

Gentlemen, the board has authorized me to make this statement to the press.

[Lieutenant]

Let's have it, Admiral.

[Steve Buckler]

Yeah, let's have the lowdown, Admiral.

[The Shadow]

Our inquiry indicates that all ships affected.

[Narrator]

By recent acts of sabotage have all been built, reconditioned or repaired in the Sag island yard. Sag island, eh? Yes, and every resource at the command of the government is being directed toward the apprehension of those responsible for the systematic blows at the naval defense strength of the United States.

[Margot Lane]

Lamont Cranston, would you mind telling me where you've been for the past Five days. I was nearly frantic until I got your call asking me to meet you. And why those old clothes? And why haven't you shaved?

[Lamont Cranston]

I'm sorry, Margot. I've been at Sag Island.

[Margot Lane]

Sag Island? You mean where they're having all the trouble in the shipyard?

[Rigo]

Yes.

[Lamont Cranston]

It seemed to be a case where the Shadow might be of some use to his country.

[Margot Lane]

You've uncovered something. Is that why you sent for me, Lamont?

[Lamont Cranston]

I'm not sure. But I stumbled on something last night. It's been a process of elimination.

[Margot Lane]

Where are we going? Back to Sag Island?

[Lamont Cranston]

Yes, we're almost there.

[Margot Lane]

Now, Lamont, have you anything definite to work on? It seems so hopeless.

[Lamont Cranston]

You forget, Margot, that I, as the Shadow, have a certain gift.

[Margot Lane]

You mean what the underworld call the power of invisibility?

[Lamont Cranston]

Yes. And the ability to read other men's minds. Particularly the mind of a man who has something to hide.

[Margot Lane]

But you've got to find that man first, Lamar.

[The Shadow]

I know.

[Margot Lane]

Do you mean that out of the 3,000 men in the Sag island shipyards you found the one man who has eluded the secret sa, the police and everyone for weeks?

[Lamont Cranston]

I think I have, Margot. I know for sure.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

Tonight.

[Margot Lane]

What do you want me to do, Lamont? We're coming into Sag island now.

[Lamont Cranston]

I want you to go to the Sag Island Hotel. Take a room and set up the shortwave radio outfit. You brought it, didn't you?

[Margot Lane]

Yes, it's in the baggage compartment.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

Good.

[Lamont Cranston]

Now, listen, Margot. Tune in the wave I use as the shadow and wait. Wait all night if necessary.

[John Barclay]

Stop the car.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

Here, Margot.

[Margot Lane]

Lamont, I know you don't believe in woman's intuition. At least you pretend not.

[Lamont Cranston]

On the contrary, I have a healthy respect for intuition. Now, be careful. I have a premonition myself, Lamar.

[Margot Lane]

Can't you tell me anything more?

[Lamont Cranston]

I can only tell you I'm going into that bar down the street. If this man is the one I think he is we will have a very interesting visit in that bar.

[Steve Buckler]

Hey, bartender, set them up again. Yeah, one more round.

[Lieutenant]

Nothing doing, boys. It's closing time.

[Steve Buckler]

All right, come on.

[John Barclay]

Come along, Jake.

[Steve Buckler]

Okay, good night. Come on, Bill, let's go. Good night, boys. Good night. Holy mackerel.

[The Shadow]

Two o'.

[John Barclay]

Clock.

[The Shadow]

Already an hour passes quickly when a man is talking about himself. Mr. Buckler.

[Steve Buckler]

What? What have I been talking about? What have I say? Who the devil are you anyway? If you're one of them Secret Service guys trying to pump me, you're barking up the wrong tree.

[The Shadow]

I'm Not a Secret Service man.

[Lamont Cranston]

I.

[Steve Buckler]

Then what's your game?

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

What's yours?

[Steve Buckler]

You're not looking for a job, you're a phony. I have a good notion to turn you over to the cops. They're rounding up guys like you.

[The Shadow]

Sit down, Buckler. Listen to me, or you get us both in trouble.

[Steve Buckler]

Who sent you here? Who told you to look me up?

[The Shadow]

Would it help if I told you what you're thinking, Buckler?

[Steve Buckler]

Quit stalling. Who sent you?

[The Shadow]

It's running through your mind over and over again. I see it like a picture on a slate. You're thinking, did Arnheim send him? Did Arnheim send him?

[John Barclay]

You're a liar.

[Steve Buckler]

I never mentioned Arnheim's name. Never heard of him.

[The Shadow]

Then why are you thinking of a name you never heard? Don't be a fool, Buckler. I know.

[Steve Buckler]

What do you know? What'd he send you for? What's wrong? Why didn't he.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

Yes?

[John Barclay]

Nothing.

[Steve Buckler]

Quit staring at me like that. Or else you were going to say.

[The Shadow]

Why didn't Arnheim tell me himself? Suppose we go ask him.

[Steve Buckler]

No, no. He don't want anybody to know. If you're in on this, you ought to know that. Listen, you. I don't know how much you know or how.

[Lieutenant]

Hey, you two. It's past closing time. Come on, I'll clear out.

[Steve Buckler]

Tomorrow's another day.

[The Shadow]

My friend and I were just leaving.

[Steve Buckler]

Yeah, you'll have to go out to the alley. I locked up the front door and I ain't unlocking it again.

[The Shadow]

Come along, Buckler. We can finish our talk on the way.

[Steve Buckler]

On the way to where?

[The Shadow]

Come along, I'll show you.

[Steve Buckler]

All right. We can cut through the alley. We can talk on the way.

[The Shadow]

Yes, we can talk. After you, Buckler.

[Steve Buckler]

Okay, come on. Hey, come on. What's the idea? We're going down the dark alley, ain't we? Hey, you, cut the comedy and come on.

[The Shadow]

Your companion has left you, Mr. Buckler. He saw your hand slip into that pocket where you carry a blackjack. He saw the picture in your mind. And knowing you meant to crush his skull, he asked me to take his picture place.

[Steve Buckler]

What is this, a frame up? Who was that guy? Who are you?

[The Shadow]

Steve Buckler. You're a traitor. You're selling your birthright, your honor, your country's safety for money you'll never live to collect.

[Steve Buckler]

How do you know all that? Who are you, anyway?

[The Shadow]

This is your first excursion in crime, isn't it, Buckler?

[Steve Buckler]

What difference does that make? Who are you? What do you want?

[The Shadow]

If you had any contact with the underworld, you wouldn't have to ask who I am. Have you ever heard of the Shadow, Steve Buckler?

[Steve Buckler]

The Shadow. So that's it. That's who you are. The man who can hide anywhere that no one has ever seen.

[The Shadow]

Yes, Buckler. The man no one has ever seen.

[Steve Buckler]

Don't move.

[The Shadow]

Shall I tell you what you're thinking? I see the picture inside your head. You're thinking you'd kill me if you could only see me.

[Steve Buckler]

You're like that other guy. You can't tell what I'm thinking. All right, you got me dead to rights. What do you want me to do?

[The Shadow]

Stop taking orders from Arnheim.

[Steve Buckler]

Is that all? You mean you're not going to turn me over to the Secret Service?

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

No.

[The Shadow]

No. I'm going to give you one more chance, Steve Buckler. One last chance.

[Narrator]

The Shadows adventure will continue in just a moment. Meanwhile, thousands of homeowners are engaged in another kind of adventure. An adventure in home heating involving the health of your family. I am referring to the purchase of fuel. You know, if you order just any kind of coal, it's a gamble, but it's a gamble you don't have to take. Baltimore families, for example, have found out how to eliminate the risk in fuel buying. They order blue coal by name. That's why the sale of blue coal in Baltimore so far this winter is 40% ahead of sales for the same period a year ago. And this is happening in many other cities. Here is real proof that blue coal, the cream of Pennsylvania anthracite, is, by actual test, the best of all fuels. It is the only solid fuel actually trademarked with a harmless blue color so that you can tell at a glance that it is the fuel that gives low cost heating. It is the fuel to buy for cleanliness. Baltimore homeowners like the steady, long burning qualities of blue coal. This is a decided advantage compared to other fuels requiring so much attention. The Glen Alden Coal Company prepared blue coal especially for home use in four home sizes. Egg, stove, chestnut or peat. So I urge all homeowners throughout this area to find out what thousands of Baltimore families have already learned about the greater comfort, convenience and economy of blue coal. Order your trial ton of blue coal tomorrow. You will find the name of your nearest blue coal dealer in the where to buy it section of your classified telephone directory under the name of blue coal.

[The Shadow]

Margo Lane. Margo Lane. Stand by. Stand by. I have found our man. He is meeting someone. The Shadow will be with them. Stand by.

[Narrator]

Who's there? Who's there?

[Rigo]

It's Regal. Let me in, Butler.

[Steve Buckler]

Oh, okay. Where. Where's Arnheim? Why didn't he come?

[Rigo]

What makes you think he'd be fool enough to come here? Just because you sent word you're in trouble?

[John Barclay]

I've got to see him.

[Steve Buckler]

I've got to talk to him.

[Rigo]

Rigo, what's the matter with you? The Secret Service men been asking you questions again?

[Steve Buckler]

No, they don't suspect anything. But somebody else is after us. Somebody knows Arnheim is back of all this sabotage.

[Rigo]

Well, who is it? Come on, Buckler, out with it.

[Steve Buckler]

Let go of me and I'll tell you. It's the Shadow.

[Rigo]

The Shadow? Don't give me that.

[Narrator]

It's the truth.

[Steve Buckler]

That's why I phoned Arnheim. I got to have the money you promised me. I gotta get away from here.

[Rigo]

Listen, you fool. How did the Shadow get wise to you? How much does he know?

[Steve Buckler]

I'm not sure, Ivan.

[Rigo]

How did he find out unless you told him?

[Steve Buckler]

I didn't tell him, but he can read your mind. Listen, you gotta take me to Anheim. I gotta get away.

[Rigo]

How did you get away from the Shadow?

[Steve Buckler]

He let me go. Said he was giving me one last chance.

[Rigo]

You're lying, Buckler. People don't get away from the Shadow. He doesn't let them go unless they're working for him. Listen, if you're trying to pull a double cross on Arnheim, you'll never live to tell him.

[Steve Buckler]

I'm telling you the truth, Rigo. You gotta believe me.

[Rigo]

All right, maybe you are. But it just happens we've got another job for you that'll prove whether you're on the level with Arnheim or not.

[Steve Buckler]

I can't do anything more. The Shadow knows I'm responsible for all those accidents. He'll find me. You can't hide from anybody like that.

[Rigo]

He'll find you dead if you don't do as you're told. Besides, Buckley, you'd like to get that $50,000 Arnheim promised you, wouldn't you?

[Steve Buckler]

I've done more than he asked already. I've earned that $50,000 a dozen times over.

[Rigo]

Maybe you have, but you don't get it unless you carry out Arnheim's orders. This is the last. It'll be easy for you, and it won't take you long. I'll wait for you, take you to Arnheim's place. He'll pay you off, and you can be on your way. And what about it, Buckler?

[Steve Buckler]

What does he want this time?

[Rigo]

It's that battle cruiser that's going out on a trial run in the morning.

[Steve Buckler]

It's too late to tamper with anything now, Regal.

[John Barclay]

So what?

[Rigo]

Your turbine, Inspector, Your schedule to go along. We know that, but how?

[Steve Buckler]

What can I do? It's too late, I tell you.

[Rigo]

I'll show you what you're going to do. You see this metal tube?

[Steve Buckler]

Yeah. What do you want me to do with it?

[Rigo]

You're going aboard the cruiser and plant that inside some piece of machinery. Someplace where it'll get smashed when the engines start.

[Steve Buckler]

What's in that tube?

[Rigo]

Oh, nothing much. Just enough nitroglycerin to tear the turbines out of that cruiser.

[Steve Buckler]

No, I won't do it. It'll kill every man in the engine room.

[Rigo]

It won't be the first time, Buckler.

[Steve Buckler]

I couldn't carry that thing into the yard. They're searching everybody.

[Rigo]

Rigo, quit stalling, will you? We know they don't search, inspectors. That's why you've been so useful.

[Steve Buckler]

All right. Suppose I can't get it in the machinery? Get off the ship before she sails. How do I know Arnheim will keep his word? Pay me off, let me get away?

[Rigo]

I didn't come here to bargain with you, Buckler. All I know is Arnheim told me to bring you back after you'd carried out his orders.

[Steve Buckler]

All right, I'll do it, if this is the last time.

[John Barclay]

Give me that tube.

[Rigo]

Now you're talking. But look out for that stuff. It's touchy. Well, come on. What are you waiting for?

[Steve Buckler]

You better go first.

[Rigo]

Nothing doing. I'm making sure you get to the yard. That cruiser sails with a flood tide. And don't try anything, because I'll be waiting for you in my car when you come out. Well, come on.

[The Shadow]

Margo Lane. Margo Lane, drive to shipyard. Watch for black sedan parked in front of red brick building. Our man is Steve Buckler, ship inspector. I am following him into shipyards to prevent another accident. Margo, don't lose sight of that black sedan. It will lead us to the real head, the sabotage ring.

[Lieutenant]

Morning, Mr. Buckler.

[Steve Buckler]

Oh, morning, Lieutenant.

[Lieutenant]

Giving the turbines a bit of final inspection before we start on the trial run.

[Steve Buckler]

Yeah, I thought I'd have a look around.

[Lieutenant]

Go right ahead. I have to check the gauges. Let me know if you find anything that needs adjustment. I'll let you know, Lieutenant.

[Steve Buckler]

I'll show on.

[Narrator]

I'm.

[Steve Buckler]

I'll show him. I'm not afraid to go through with this. There. Now, just Wait till those carbines start spinning. Till they smash that metal tube of nitroglycerin. Just wait.

[Lieutenant]

Everything look all right, Mr. Buckler?

[Steve Buckler]

Yeah, yeah, everything's fine.

[Lieutenant]

Just fine, Lieutenant. Goodbye.

[The Shadow]

Yeah, everything will be just fine in just a moment. As soon as I've removed this tube of nitroglycerin that Buckler put in the turbine.

[Narrator]

Marco.

[Steve Buckler]

Margot, wait a minute.

[Margot Lane]

Oh, Lamont, thank heavens you're here. There goes that black sedan, Ms. Buckler.

[The Shadow]

And a man named Rigo.

[Lamont Cranston]

Follow them and don't get too close.

[Margot Lane]

What happened to the shipyard?

[Lamont Cranston]

Buckler tried to carry out another sabotage job for a man named Arnheim. He's the man we want.

[Margot Lane]

Did you stop Buckler?

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

Yes, but he doesn't know.

[Lamont Cranston]

It don't have an accident. Margot will be scattered all over the landscape.

[The Shadow]

Careful, Margot.

[Margot Lane]

What do you mean?

[Steve Buckler]

Just that.

[Lamont Cranston]

This metal tube I'm carrying contains enough nitroglycerin to blow us to kingdom come if it's jolted hard enough.

[Margot Lane]

Where'd you get it? Lamard from backlog.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

Yes.

[Lamont Cranston]

He left it in a gearbox of the battle cruiser.

[Margot Lane]

Oh, so that's why you followed him into the ship.

[Lamont Cranston]

Slow down, Margaret. You're getting too close to that car. Yes, yes, I. I had to stop that murderous scheme, even if it meant losing track of Buckler and Rigo.

[Margot Lane]

Do you think they'll lead us to this man who seems to be behind all this?

[Lamont Cranston]

I'm sure of it.

[Margot Lane]

Look, Lamont, they're turning in that big estate.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

Quick, Margo, go off the road and stop.

[Margot Lane]

Lamont. Look at the sign. Redland Sanitarium. This doesn't look like a place where Arnheim would have his head pulled.

[Lamont Cranston]

That's probably why he selected it. Well, Margot, this is it.

[Margot Lane]

Lamont, you're not going in there alone.

[Lamont Cranston]

Yes. The Shadow is going to return this little metal instrument of death to Dr. Arnheim in person.

[Narrator]

Doctor?

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

Yes.

[Lamont Cranston]

Just look at that sign, Margot. Redland Sanitarium. Dr. Felix Arnheim, resident physician.

[Margot Lane]

Oh, please don't go in there alone. Lamont, let's notify the state police. We can. I have the radio transmitter in the car.

[The Shadow]

Good.

[Lamont Cranston]

And I want you to call the state police on the regular wavelength five minutes after I've gone in the house.

[Lieutenant]

Why not call them now, Margot?

[Lamont Cranston]

We're not dealing with amateurs. They're undoubtedly prepared against police raids. If the police blunder in there, they'll only find an empty house. I've got to go in there alone.

[Margot Lane]

Don't take that nitroglycerin with You, Lamont.

[Lamont Cranston]

Well, Margot, I must. This tube of concentrated death is an important part of my plan to hold those men in that house until the police break in.

[Margot Lane]

Oh, don't, Lamont. You said you had a premonition, remember?

[The Shadow]

Don't Margot worry.

[Lamont Cranston]

Call the police. And in five minutes. Five minutes which is in the lap.

[Margot Lane]

Of the gods and in the hands of the Shadow.

[The Shadow]

Where he go?

[Rigo]

Here he is, Dr. Arnheim.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

So you have to come to tell you're afraid, Mr. Butler. You wish to go away, far away.

[Steve Buckler]

Yes, yes, I know when I've had enough. And I want that $50,000 and I want it quick.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

So, have you carried out my last instructions?

[Steve Buckler]

Yes, I have. And that's the finish. Pay me off and let me get away from here.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

I'm afraid we must wait until we are sure of the success of your latest venture in sabotage, Mr. Butler.

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[Steve Buckler]

Listen, Arnheim. Finding that nitroglycerin on the cruiser will be traced to me. An hour after the explosion, every Secret Service agent in this country will be after me.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

We will see that they do not find you.

[Steve Buckler]

I'll see to that myself. Listen, you'll give me that $50,000 and let me get out of here now or I'll.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

Oh. What? Keep him covered, Mr. Regal.

[Rigo]

Don't make a move, Butler. I hate to shoot men on the bank.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

What were you going to do if we don't pay you?

[Steve Buckler]

Mr. Buckler, I'm warning you. Tell Rigo not to shoot. Do you think I didn't know you'd try something like this? You think I'd come here without an ace up my sleeve?

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

Go on, Mr. Buckler.

[Steve Buckler]

Just this little bottle filled with some of the nitroglycerin you sent me to plant on the cruiser. You know what'll happen if I throw it. And I'll throw it if we go shoot, Mr. Buckler.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

You're bluffing. That metal tube was sealed and could not be opened.

[Steve Buckler]

You're crazy. I opened it. Pour a little out of it.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

I. Rigo, I think Mr. Buckler has served us long enough. He wants to go far away. I think we should help him no, don't.

[Lieutenant]

I've done everything you wanted. You can't kill me. You'll be caught.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

Mr. Buckler, this is a sanitarium. Many persons have died here. It is quite useful. The police think nothing of one death, more or less.

[Rigo]

Are you sure there's no nitro in that bottle, Doctor?

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

Quite sure, I think. Now, Mr. Rigo.

[Lieutenant]

No, no, don't.

[The Shadow]

Shadow.

[Steve Buckler]

The Shadow warned me.

[Rigo]

I should have listened. Listen to the shadow.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

Very good, Mr. Rico. This. This American man of mystery, the Shadow. He interests me. You told me something over the telephone.

[Steve Buckler]

Yes.

[Rigo]

He got to Buckler last night. Makes himself invisible. As I told you over the phone. I think we'd better get out of the country for a while.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

Because of this Shadow? He's just a man using hypnotic forces that affect men's minds.

[Rigo]

Maybe. But once he gets on your trail, there's no shaking him off.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

But I know something about such forces.

[Rigo]

He can appear in a room without being seen. How does he do it?

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

Some call it the powers of angels or devils. But it's the art of mesmerism. Hypnotic suggestion is very old, and certain men of modern science have developed it amazingly well.

[Rigo]

No matter how he does it, I don't want to meet this Shadow.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

In that case, Mr. Rigo, will you be so kind as to remove that body? I. I dislike the presence of the dead.

[Steve Buckler]

All right.

[John Barclay]

I'll take care.

[Rigo]

I'll be in the cellar if you need me.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

I shall not need you.

[Rigo]

Say, what's funny, Doc? What are you grinning about?

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

I am looking forward to a conversation I'm going to have.

[Rigo]

Somebody coming here?

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

Not exactly. Don't concern yourself, Mr. Ego. This is something beyond your comprehension.

[The Shadow]

Okay.

[Rigo]

I'll be on tap if you need me.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

What are you waiting for, Shadow? Why don't you speak?

[The Shadow]

How long have you known I was in this room, Doctor?

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

For quite some minutes, Shadow. While I'm not a master of your art of invisibility, my mind is sensitive to such a forceful concentration as you exert to cloak your presence.

[The Shadow]

I see. Since you sent Rigo away, it is evident you are not afraid of me.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

Here is a luxury I do not allow myself, Shadow.

[The Shadow]

Your career of Sabotage is over, Dr. Arnheim.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

I think not. I have never met a man who did not have a price, Shadow.

[The Shadow]

I have only one price for your kind, Doctor.

[Narrator]

Prison.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

You could be very valuable to me, Shadow.

[The Shadow]

Don't reach into that drawer, Doctor. A gun is of no use.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

A gun? That is a crude way of settling a difference of opinion. But money I can Pay well.

[The Shadow]

Money won't help you.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

Then you leave me no alternative. You see this little wheel set into this wall?

[The Shadow]

Yes.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

I turn it and gas. Yes, Shadow, gas. The room is there. Tight. Has served me well on other occasions. Shadow, you can't get out. The door is locked on the outside.

[The Shadow]

What good will it do you to kill me if you also die?

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

I'm not going to kill you or myself with this gas. What then? Just enough gas will be liberated to numb your powers of concentration. Enough to destroy your ability to remain invisible. You can't resist it, Shadow. And just the moment you will weaken, become visible. And the moment I see you, the moment I catch the faintest glimpse of a shadowy form, I shoot. The air's becoming quite heavy, Shadow.

[The Shadow]

Yes. Listen, Dr. Arnheim. The police are closing in, doctor.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

So you don't trust your own powers? You had to have the police to help you.

[The Shadow]

In a few minutes, the place will be surrounded.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

That is all the time I need. You will become visible. I shall kill you. And then? And then I take the police a little while to break into this room. When they do, they will find a dead shadow. But I shall not be here. This door behind me leads to a passageway which leads to a bay. A speedboat awaits me there.

[The Shadow]

I know about the speedboat, Dr. Arnheim.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

You see, the gas is doing its work. You are weakening. Your power of invisibility is losing its. What is it, Rigo?

[Rigo]

Doctor, quick. The police.

[Steve Buckler]

The passageway.

[Rigo]

The speedboat is ready. We can make it. Hey, what are you doing with that gas? What's the idea?

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

Wait, Rigo. The shadow. He is here in this room. In just a moment, he will become visible.

[Rigo]

But you haven't time to wait. The police are already in the house.

[The Shadow]

Don't try to escape in that speedboat. I have turned it into a death trap. Dr. Arnheim.

[Rigo]

Come, come. Quicker. It'll be too late.

[Steve Buckler]

Wait, Dr. Arnheim.

[The Shadow]

Death is waiting for you in that speedboat. A violent death of your own making.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

You can't love me.

[Lieutenant]

Don't listen to him, Doctor.

[Narrator]

Hurry.

[Dr. Felix Arnheim]

All right. But remember, Shadow, we shall meet again.

[The Shadow]

I'm afraid not, my friend. But first, let me turn off this gas.

[Lieutenant]

Take the place round of everybody you find. Wilson, Harvey, Davidson, you in? Take me upstairs. Right for you. Follow me. Try that room, Sergeant. Okay, Captain. This room's full of gas. Sergeant, that iron door there.

[Narrator]

Try it.

[Lieutenant]

Looks like they skipped. What was that?

[Steve Buckler]

Sounded like an explosion down near the water.

[The Shadow]

Yes, it was an explosion, gentlemen. And there will be no more Wrecking of warships. It was the tube of nitroglycerin intended for the new battle cruiser by Dr. Arnheim and placed in the gears of the good doctor's own steeple with the compliments of the Shadow.

[Narrator]

Ladies and gentlemen, before the Shadow leaves you, here's John Barclay, Blue Coals heating expert. Ladies and gentlemen, Mr. Barclay.

[John Barclay]

Thank you, Ken Roberts. Good evening, friends. I'll venture to say plenty of you homeowners listening in have have heating problems that you'd like to have straightened out right away. If that's the case, here's what you do. Phone your nearest Blue Coal dealer and ask him to send one of my John Barkley servicemen to your home. Thousands of people are enjoying new heating benefits by following the free advice of John Barkley servicemen. For example, here's what a man in Newark, New Jersey writes about getting better, more efficient results from the Blue Cold heating service. I quote, since doing just as we were advised by your young man, we're getting better, steadier heat than we've ever had before at any time, I'm happy to recommend Blue Coal and your heating service. Friends, why don't you take advantage of this wonderful heating service? Remember, it's yours absolutely free. It is part of the service that goes with Blue Coal. Just phone your nearest Blue Coal dealer. He'll be glad to send a John Barkley serviceman to inspect your heating plant. And be sure to ask that serviceman about the Blue Coal heat regulator. That inexpensive up to the minute thermostat will give you more uniform, more economical heat than you can get with the most costly oil burner.

[Steve Buckler]

I thank you.

[Narrator]

Thank you, Mr. Barclay and friends. Proffered by Mr. Barclay's advice, have a John Barclay serviceman stop at your home. Phone your nearest Blue Coal dealer tomorrow. You have just heard a dramatized version of one of the many copyrighted stories which appear in the Shadow magazine. Any similarity to persons living or dead is purely coincidental.

[The Shadow]

The weed of crime bears bitter fruit. Crime does not pay. The Shadow knows.

[Narrator]

Next week, same time, same station, Blue Coal, America's finest anthracite, will again present another thrilling adventure of the shadows. Be sure to listen and be sure to burn Blue Coal, the solid fuel for solid comfort.