The Shadow: The Death Triangle 12/12/1937

Summary

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Podcast Summary:

Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode: The Shadow: "The Death Triangle" (Original air date: 12/12/1937)
Podcast Air Date: November 20, 2025
Host: Choice Classic Radio

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Episode Overview

This episode of "The Shadow" called The Death Triangle delves into a suspenseful web of deception, vengeance, and psychological intrigue. Three men, once political prisoners on Devil’s Island, are confronted by a deadly threat that reaches across decades. As the Shadow investigates, questions of trust, betrayal, and morality surface, leading to a dramatic confrontation in an isolated country estate. The iconic invisible detective, The Shadow, uses his extraordinary methods to protect the innocent and reveal the guilty.

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Key Discussion Points & Story Breakdown

1. Setting the Scene: Past Sins Resurface (02:14–06:08)

• Devil’s Island Backstory:
  On December 22, 1913, Pierre Martin is subjected to brutal punishment—100 days of solitary confinement and 100 lashes for an attempted escape. He vows vengeance on an unknown betrayer.

• Newsflash Hook:
  A sensational broadcast claims The Shadow is gravely wounded and sought medical help from Dr. James Evans, but it is revealed (04:22) to be a hoax by Dr. Evans himself to get The Shadow’s attention.

  “The man you claim to have operated upon was a fake. The real Shadow has not been wounded.”
  — The Shadow, 04:22

2. Death Threats and an Old Acquaintance (04:41–07:27)

• Evans’ Plea for Help:
  Dr. Evans admits to issuing the false statement as bait, revealing that both he and financier Raymond Dubriel have received specific death threats—music boxes shaped as coffins, playing a tune used as a secret signal by the four escaped prisoners.

• Mysterious Fourth Man:
  The Shadow uncovers that the fourth escapee, Jacques Covet (Kove), was a murderer and previously betrayed. He escaped Devil’s Island again six months ago.

  “You were once a political prisoner on Devil’s Island… What about the fourth man who escaped with you?”
  — The Shadow, 05:25

• The Meeting Place:
  Plans are made for The Shadow to help protect the three men at Dubriel’s Long Island estate, where the next strike is expected.

3. Margot Lane’s Search and The Shadow’s Hidden Identity (07:27–10:37)

• Margot Lane’s Concern:
  Margot frantically searches for Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego), eventually following Dr. Evans to the estate.

  “What’s happening, Lamont? Are you trying to find out why he said he operated on the Shadow?”
  — Margot Lane, 09:48

• The Shadow’s Instructions:
  The Shadow instructs Margot to watch for a two-blink window signal as a call to notify police, showing the layered safety precautions in play.

4. Tension Among Survivors (10:50–14:00)

• Mutual Distrust:
  Dubriel, Martin, and Evans bicker, blaming each other for past betrayals on Devil’s Island and fearing the threats.

  “I wonder what it’s like to die. What do you think, Dubril? Or do you ever think of anything but your fat stomach and your money?”
  — Martin, 11:03

• Shadow Joins the Conversation:
  The Shadow reveals his presence, compelling the men to recount their history and the origin of Covet's hatred.

  “Allow me to convince him, Dr. Evans...”
  — The Shadow, 12:33

5. The Boat Ordeal & Birth of Hatred (14:32–16:20)

• Flashback:
  The prisoners, adrift in an open boat, face starvation and desperation. Kove, the navigator, accuses the others of withholding rations, vowing deadly revenge.

  “I’ll live to kill every one of you for this. You, Dubril, you, Martin, you, Evans!”
  — Covet, 15:13

6. Suspicion and Paranoia—Who Is The Killer? (16:20–18:22)

• Coffin Music Box and Threats:
  The group fixates on the music box, only the four escapees knowing its significance. Paranoia mounts, as The Shadow casts doubt—is the threat truly from Covet, or possibly one of the three survivors?

  “Are you sure it isn’t one of you?”
  — The Shadow, 18:03

• A Note Appears:
  A sinister note is discovered: “You are the first and you will die tonight. Raymond Dubriel.” (18:39)

7. Showdown: Betrayal and Death (20:28–24:34)

• Dubriel Confronted by Covet:
  In a dramatic confrontation, "Covet" (in disguise) and Dubriel accuse each other of betrayal. Dubriel tries to make a deal for his life, offering to help kill the others.

  “So you would betray Dr. Evans to save yourself, Dubriel?”
  — The Shadow, 21:52

• Deadly Double-Cross:
  In the chaos, "Covet" and Dubriel struggle—knives are thrown, a gun is fired. Dubriel is mortally wounded.

• The Big Reveal:
  The Shadow instructs Evans to remove a wig and beard, exposing that the assailant wasn’t Covet, but Pierre Martin in disguise.

  “Wig… Beard… It’s Martin!”
  — Dr. Evans, 23:50

• Motives Unveiled:
  Martin’s dying words reveal deep-seated jealousy and resentment for past betrayals and perceived injustices.

  “I hated Dubriel because he betrayed me… I hated you, Evans, because you have got the things I always wanted. Success, fame, glory.”
  — Pierre Martin, 24:05

8. The Shadow Explains All and Resolves Tensions (24:34–25:55)

• The Real Fate of Covet:
  The Shadow confirms the logical chain is complete: Covet could not be the killer—his skeleton had been found months before.

  “Three months ago, a bleached skeleton was found on a deserted beach at Trinidad. It has just been identified as the body of Kove.”
  — The Shadow, 25:30

• Justice and Closure:
  The Shadow’s methods allowed the true dangers to reveal themselves, ensuring Evans' future safety.

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Notable Quotes & Moments

• “The weed of crime bears bitter fruit. Crime does not pay. The Shadow knows.”
  — The Shadow, 28:16 (iconic closing line)

• “No man has ever seen him. But he’ll be here.”
  — Dr. James Evans, 12:09

• “You overestimate my importance, Shadow. But will you help?”
  — Dr. James Evans, 06:18

• “If I am to help you, you will all sit down… there is little time to lose. I must know the whole story, the truth, if I am to help you.”
  — The Shadow, 12:53

• “Are you sure it’s not one of you?”
  — The Shadow, 18:03

• “It was I sent the musical coffin. The warning note. I knew you’d think it was Kobe.”
  — Pierre Martin (as he’s dying), 24:05

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Key Timestamps

| Segment | Description | Timestamp | |---------|------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------| | Opening Devil's Island flashback & vow of vengeance | 02:14–02:43 | | False news flash: The Shadow's supposed wounding revealed as a hoax | 03:20–04:41 | | Dr. Evans’ plea and confession of past (Devil’s Island) | 04:55–05:52 | | Music box death threats and gathering at the estate | 06:33–07:27 | | Margot Lane’s search for Lamont Cranston | 07:27–10:37 | | Tense gathering: suspicions & the arrival of The Shadow | 10:50–12:33 | | Flashback to boat ordeal; Kove's curse | 14:32–16:20 | | Allegiance cracks, murder threats, paranoia | 16:20–18:22 | | Death note: “You will die tonight, Raymond Dubriel.” | 18:39 | | Final confrontation, disguises revealed, Martin’s confession | 20:28–24:34 | | The Shadow reveals Covet’s death and closes the case | 24:34–25:55 | | Iconic closing warning: “The weed of crime bears bitter fruit…” | 28:16 |

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Tone and Style Summary

• Atmospheric, tense, and psychological:
  Interpersonal suspicion, chest-thumping bravado, and existential dread fill the estate’s air, punctuated by The Shadow’s calm, unnerving presence.
• Classic detective noir language:
  Witty, clipped retorts bounce between suspects; The Shadow remains clinical and composed in his deduction.
• Dramatic flourishes:
  Lightning-quick reversals, dramatic confessions, and audible tension bring this golden-age classic to life.

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For Listeners New and Old

"The Death Triangle" exemplifies the blend of suspense and moral consequence that made The Shadow a radio icon. Rather than rescue through direct intervention, The Shadow’s strategy lays bare the true character of each man present, letting past betrayals surface and justice enact itself. For contemporary listeners, this episode is a window into both the storytelling style and the psychological themes that defined Golden Age radio dramas.

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Transcript

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[Narrator/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 [e-mail].

[Pierre Martin]

The Shadow knows.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

Blue Pole presents the Shadow. The mystery man who strikes terror in the very hearts of shopsters, lawbreakers and criminals today. The Death Triangle. Ladies and gentlemen, the Shadow will be with you in just a moment. In the meantime, I'd like to remind you of a well known fact. Coal colored blue means better heat at less cost. But when you buy blue coal, you're getting the cream of all Pennsylvania anthracite. The harmless blue coloring with which blue cold is trademarked is your guarantee of clean, even safe, dependable heat all winter long. Such heat ensures the health of your entire household. So when you order coal, specify Blue coal. Ask for it by name. Phone your order to your nearest blue coal dealer tomorrow.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

On this day, December 22, 1913, by order of the authority of Devil's Islands, you Pierre Martin, are hereby sentenced to 100 days in confinement, solitaire and a hundred lashes in the presence of the assembled prisoners as a warning to all who would attempt to escape. Let the punishment begin. I will find the devil who betrayed me. 1. I will learn his name.

[The Shadow]

Who?

[Narrator/Radio Host]

I will kill him.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

Ladies and gentlemen, we interrupt this program of organ music to bring you a special news flash from our affiliated press Service. New York, December 12, 1937. The shadow has been found. Dr. James Evans, World famous child surgeon, told reporters this afternoon that a wounded man who claimed to be the Shadow, forced his way into Dr. Evans private clinic and that the point of a gun forced him to remove a bullet. The wounded man then revealed that he was none other than that mysterious character who has waged a one man war against crime, the shadow. Before Dr. Evans could report the case to the police, however, the Shadow mysteriously disappeared. The famous surgeon believes the Shadow has little chance of surviving his wound. Our organ recital now continues.

[Dr. James Evans]

Hello, Dr. Evans speaking.

[The Shadow]

Dr. Evans, the man you claim to have operated upon was a fake. The real Shadow has not been wounded.

[Dr. James Evans]

The Shadow. You are the shadow?

[The Shadow]

Yes, Dr. Evans. You don't seem Surprised?

[Blue Coal Announcer]

I'm not.

[Dr. James Evans]

I've been hoping you'd get in touch with me. That statement I issued was false.

[The Shadow]

False? Come now, Dr. Evans. A man of your high standing in the medical world does not issue false statements without very grave reasons.

[Dr. James Evans]

There was a very grave reason. I need your help. An old acquaintance of mine, Raymond Dubriel, the financier, has received a death threat.

[The Shadow]

Have him notify the police.

[Dr. James Evans]

No, he refuses to do that.

[The Shadow]

Then let him take the consequences. Unless. Dr. Evans, have you also received a death threat?

[Dr. James Evans]

Yes, I have.

[The Shadow]

Before I made this call, I investigated your past, Dr. Evans.

[Dr. James Evans]

My past is a matter of public knowledge.

[The Shadow]

You were once a political prisoner on Devil's Island. You escaped 20 years ago with three other men. Raymond Dubriel, the banker, and Pierre Martin, the concert pianist.

[Dr. James Evans]

Yes, but our convictions were reversed by a high court a year after we escaped.

[The Shadow]

I know it was proved that you three were innocent. But what about the fourth man who escaped with you?

[Dr. James Evans]

A murderer, Jacques Kobe. He was caught and sent back to Devil's Island.

[The Shadow]

After the escape, one of you betrayed him to the police.

[Dr. James Evans]

I don't believe that.

[The Shadow]

Why else should he mark you for death?

[Dr. James Evans]

Then you know Kobe escaped from Devil's Island a second time six months ago.

[The Shadow]

Yes, Dr. Evans.

[Dr. James Evans]

Then you're interested. You'll help?

[The Shadow]

Yes, I will help. But only because your life is in danger, Doctor. The world can ill afford to lose the skill and genius that has saved the lives of countless children.

[Dr. James Evans]

You overestimate my importance, Shadow. But will you help?

[The Shadow]

Yes. When and where does Kove's warning say he will strike first?

[Dr. James Evans]

At Gabriel's Long island estate tonight.

[The Shadow]

How do you know this warning came from Kove?

[Dr. James Evans]

Gabriel received a miniature music box in the shape of a coffin in the mail this morning.

[The Shadow]

A musical coffin? Yes.

[Dr. James Evans]

And when the lid of the coffin is raised, the music box plays a tune.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

A tune?

[Dr. James Evans]

Dubril, Martin, Kobe and myself whistled as a danger signal when we were planning our escape from Devil's Island.

[The Shadow]

Where is Dubriel, Dr. Evans?

[Dr. James Evans]

At his Long island estate. Martin is staying with him, and I am driving out there to spend the night. I had hoped you'd come and help.

[The Shadow]

I will help you, Dr. Evans. Tell Dubriel and Martin that the Shadow will be there tonight.

[Pierre Martin]

Oh, good afternoon, Ms. Lane.

[Margot Lane]

Is Mr. Cranston at home?

[Pierre Martin]

No, Ms. Lane, he's not.

[Margot Lane]

You know where I can reach him?

[Pierre Martin]

Well, he may be at his club.

[Margot Lane]

No, I've tried there.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

His office?

[Margot Lane]

Yes, everywhere. Nobody's seen him all day. Oh.

[Pierre Martin]

Is there anything I can do?

[Margot Lane]

Be sure. And stay here in case he comes home. I'll call you on the phone later.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Yes, miss.

[Margot Lane]

I've got to find him.

[Pierre Martin]

I've got to.

[Margot Lane]

I just got to. I've got to find a box. Maybe Dr. Evans knows more than he told the newspapers. His office said he might be at home. Number 33. Yes, this is it.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Oh, laud. I knew they'd shoot you someday. Yes, miss.

[Margot Lane]

Is Dr. Evans here? I must see him.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

I beg your pardon, miss, but are you another reporter?

[Margot Lane]

Yes, and I must see Dr. Evans. It's important. It's a matter of life or death.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

I'm sorry. Sorry, miss, but Dr. Evans has nothing.

[Pierre Martin]

To say to the press. He's not at home.

[Margot Lane]

But I must see him. I must find him.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

I'm sorry.

[Margot Lane]

That car. That's Dr. Evans car?

[Pierre Martin]

Yes, miss.

[Margot Lane]

Where's he going?

[Narrator/Radio Host]

I'm not at liberty to say.

[Margot Lane]

Never mind. I'll find out myself.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Taxi.

[Margot Lane]

Taxi.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Okay, miss.

[The Shadow]

Where to?

[Margot Lane]

Follow that big black limousine. The one with the green cross on the license plate.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

Well, it's a doctor's car, miss. I may have to break a lot of traffic laws if it goes through red lights.

[Margot Lane]

Never mind. I'll pay the fine. Don't lose sight of that car for a minute.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

Okay, lady, but this is gonna be one fast ride.

[Margot Lane]

Feather. Driver, slow down. That car's turning in a better state.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

You want me to do it?

[Dr. James Evans]

Go through the gates after?

[Margot Lane]

No, no. Stop here.

[Pierre Martin]

Okay.

[Margot Lane]

Here's $5.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

Hey, thanks, man.

[Margot Lane]

I wonder if this is just a wild goose chase. The mark couldn't be way out here.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Not if he's wounded, dying.

[Margot Lane]

That car, it sounded like.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Oh, but it couldn't be. It is. It's. It's Lamont. Lamont.

[Pierre Martin]

Margot.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Margot.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

What in heaven's name are you doing here?

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Oh, Lamont.

[Margot Lane]

Then it wasn't true.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

You weren't shot.

[Margot Lane]

Dr. Evans didn't operate on you.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

Oh, so you heard that news flash too.

[Margot Lane]

The papers are full of it. I tried to find you at the office, at home, at your club, everywhere.

[Pierre Martin]

I'm sorry, Margot. I should have known you'd worry, but.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

I've had a very busy afternoon. How did you get here?

[Margot Lane]

I followed Dr. Evans car. He just drove through those gates. What's happening, Lamont? Are you trying to find out why he said he operated on the Shadow?

[Pierre Martin]

Is.

[Margot Lane]

Is someone impersonating you?

[Blue Coal Announcer]

No. Dr. Evans did that knowing I'd get in touch with him. He needs my help in a very special manner.

[Margot Lane]

But why? Is someone after him? Threatening him?

[Blue Coal Announcer]

Yes. Also, the Owner of this estate, the banker Dubril, and Martin, the concert pianist.

[Margot Lane]

And you're going to help them?

[Blue Coal Announcer]

I'm interested in helping Evans.

[Pierre Martin]

He's a great doctor and a great humanitarian. His life is in danger. Lamont.

[Margot Lane]

Now that I'm here, is there anything I can do?

[Blue Coal Announcer]

Yes, Margot. Wait in my car. Keep your eye on the house.

[Pierre Martin]

If you see a light, go on and off twice in one of the windows. Drive to the nearest payphone and notify the state police to come to the Debris estate.

[Margot Lane]

I'll watch for the signal.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

Fine.

[Margot Lane]

I suppose there's no use my asking you to be careful.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

No, Margot.

[The Shadow]

But I'll try.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

I'll try to avoid really putting Dr. Evans to the trouble of removing a bullet from the Shadow.

[Dr. James Evans]

Dabril, stop pounding on the table and cursing, Corvet.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Oh, that's all very well for you to say, Evans. Your turn hasn't come. But it will if we three sitting here. You or me or Martin. Don't get Covey. When he comes here tonight, you will be the next on his list. You or Martin.

[Pierre Martin]

Don't concern yourself about my fate, Dupree. I am not afraid of Corvet.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Oh, you'll change your mind if he manages to kill me.

[Pierre Martin]

Martin. I wonder what it's like to die. What do you think, Dubree? Or do you ever think of anything but your fat stomach and your money?

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Caillou.

[Dr. James Evans]

Gentlemen, this is no time to argue. I have something more important to tell you.

[Pierre Martin]

What is it, Evans? I hear you had quite an experience today. Operated on this man who calls himself the Shadow.

[Dr. James Evans]

Yes, that's what I want to talk to you about.

[Pierre Martin]

Ah, There's a man, Dubril the Shadow. He might save you from Covey.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Ah, what could he do? I've had the best private detectives in the country trying to find some trace of Gouvet. And ever since he escaped from Devil's island again six months ago.

[Pierre Martin]

By the way, Dubril, I've always wondered who tipped off the police when Kobe was hiding after he helped us escape 20 years ago.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Kobe was a murderer. We were innocent men.

[Pierre Martin]

And also, who betrayed me, Dubreel. The time I tried to escape alone the first time.

[Dr. James Evans]

Map time, Dubriel. Now listen to me. A moment ago, we were talking about the Shadow. Well, he isn't dying. I didn't operate on him. I announced that, hoping the real Shadow would get in touch with me.

[Pierre Martin]

Did he?

[Dr. James Evans]

Yes. And he's coming here tonight to help us.

[Pierre Martin]

I've always been curious to see this Shadow.

[Dr. James Evans]

You won't see Him? No man has ever seen him. But he'll be here.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Oh, Evans, for a man of intelligence, you're talking like a fool. The age of ghosts and mystic presences is.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

You're wrong, Gibral.

[Dr. James Evans]

Wrong? Because I am a doctor, I can readily accept the fact that the Shadow is a master of the powers of mental suggestion of mass hypnosis. Recent experiments have proven conclusively that rubbish.

[The Shadow]

Allow me to convince him, Dr. Evans.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

What was that? Who spoke then?

[The Shadow]

The Shadow. Dubreel. You do not accept the theory of my power of invisibility. But perhaps you will accept the fact, for I am here.

[Pierre Martin]

Sit down, Dubreel. You look rather pale.

[The Shadow]

If I am to help you, you will all sit down. Sit at that table there. I understand. There is little time to lose. I must know the whole story, the truth, if I am to help you.

[Dr. James Evans]

Do as the Shadow says. Sit there, Martin. And you there, Dubriel.

[Pierre Martin]

Well, why don't you talk back, Dubril?

[The Shadow]

Be quiet, Martin. Dr. Evans, I will help you if I can. But there is one gap in the chain of events leading up to this moment.

[Dr. James Evans]

I'll tell you anything I know, Shadow.

[The Shadow]

Then tell me this. When and under what circumstance did Kove first threaten your lives?

[Dr. James Evans]

It was the last day we spent in the open boat in which we escaped from Devil's Island 20 years ago. Storms had blown us off our course. Our food was gone. Our water was exhausted. Kove, the only one who knew how to navigate was. Well, he was slowly dying from hunger and thirst. I can still remember his crime.

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[Pierre Martin]

Water.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Water.

[Pierre Martin]

Be quiet, Claude.

[Dr. James Evans]

There is no water.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

The cask is empty. You're lying, Dubril. All of you. You've been drinking my share. Give me that bucket. Give me a drink of that bucket.

[Margot Lane]

Let us get it back.

[Dr. James Evans]

Until then, salt water will kill him.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

What does it matter, Dr. Evans? 17 days in this open boat. Nights of storm and days of blazing heat.

[Pierre Martin]

Water.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Water. I'm dying, I tell you. Dying. You're not giving me my share. You're stealing my water. Where will you be if I die? I'm the only one that knows navigation.

[Dr. James Evans]

Be patient, Kobe. It may rain tonight.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

We might as well be back on Devil's island again. At least there was bread and water there. Bread? Bread. A crust. Just a crust of bread and water. Water.

[Dr. James Evans]

There's no bread, Kofi. The last crust went three days ago.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

You're cheating me. Killing me. You only brought me along to steer the boat. Now you're starving me to death. You don't want me to live, but I will live. I'll get you for this. I'll live to kill every one of you for this. You, Dupree, you must turn. You, Evans. Oh, shut him up, Evans. You're a doctor. You know what to do.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

Look.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Myself.

[Pierre Martin]

You.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Please.

[Pierre Martin]

Look.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Seagulls. What does it matter? We have no guns. I know, but don't you see? The gulls never go far from land or a ship. Oh, sure. You are right, Evan. Look. Look to the west. It's land. Land at last. All right. There to the southwest, you can see the sun of the mountains. We're staying free at last.

[Pierre Martin]

Look.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Look, we tried to land. There'll be food. And wars are plenty for everybody. You tried to kill me, starve me to death. But I'm going to live. I'm going to live until the last one of you is dead. Dead?

[Dr. James Evans]

Yes. You threatened all three of us. And so you see, that's how it all began.

[Pierre Martin]

And now Corvette is free and out to get her.

[The Shadow]

Shadow, what makes you so sure it is Kove?

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Well, it couldn't be anyone else.

[Pierre Martin]

It's Kove, all right. He said you reel that thing on the table.

[The Shadow]

That oblong box.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

Yes, Shadow. Notice its shape. It's a miniature coffin. Beautifully carved.

[Pierre Martin]

Kove was a wood carver. He was always handy with a knife.

[The Shadow]

But still, it does not follow that he was the one.

[Dr. James Evans]

Except for one thing, Shadow. When the lid of the coffin is.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

Raised, it's a music box.

[Dr. James Evans]

And that tune it playing was a warning signal we used while planning our escape from Devil's Island.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

Remember?

[Pierre Martin]

Only the four of us knew it. Dubril, Kove, Evans and myself.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Oh, stop it, Evans. Stop that curse of things. Stop what I tell you? I can't stand it.

[Pierre Martin]

So you have a conscience, eh, Dubril? That danger refrain recalls the past, doesn't it?

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Stop talking about it.

[Pierre Martin]

It looks as though Covey meant business, doesn't he?

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Don't sit there conniving over me. You forget your turn. Maybe next. Maybe tonight even.

[Pierre Martin]

I am not for getting anything to breathe.

[Dr. James Evans]

You better study yourself, Dupree. I'll get you a drink.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Ah, never mind. Here is the decanter. I'LL pour it myself. Oh, that tune. Where is it coming from? I smashed the COVID Good heaven.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

It's the decanter in your hand.

[Dr. James Evans]

Someone.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Someone changes the decanter. Kobe. He did it. He's here. He's been in his house tonight. Where you go? To my room. I don't trust anybody. I be safe there. Behind locked doors. Alone. And if Covet comes, that is anymore. Wait for me to wait.

[The Shadow]

Let him go, Dr. Evans.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

But he shouldn't be left alone. Kove may carry out his mess.

[The Shadow]

Are you sure it is Kove?

[Pierre Martin]

What do you mean? It must be. It couldn't be anyone else. Coffin. The decanters are his warning.

[The Shadow]

I know. But you said the four of you knew the signal. Are you sure it isn't one of you?

[Pierre Martin]

Of course not. I thought you said the Shadow was here to help us.

[The Shadow]

I am. But I am content to let events lead themselves to a logical conclusion.

[Dr. James Evans]

You mean you won't use your power to save us from him?

[The Shadow]

I shall use my power at the moment it is required, Dr. Evans. Right now.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

For instance.

[The Shadow]

Look on the table. There is a note where the decanter was standing.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Has been here.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

Listen to this matter.

[Dr. James Evans]

You are the first and you will die tonight.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

Raymond Dubriel, Ladies and gentlemen. The Shadow will return in a moment. There are thousands of families living around snowbound Buffalo today who are as snug as a bug in a rug, thanks to Blue Coal. You have read how the whole city of Buffalo has been literally snowed in. In that entire area, business practically came to a standstill for several days. But those families who laid in their supply of blue Coal kept comfortable. The icy, biting winter blowing outdoors made no difference to them. These storms were reported to be coming eastward. So take a tip and get ready. Put in a supply of blue Coal tomorrow. It is the most economical fuel that you can use. Furnaces, parlor stoves and cooking ranges in New England were designed to use anthracite. And blue coal is America's finest anthracite. Blue coal is mined by the Glen Alden Coal Company and is especially prepared for home use. It is available in all domestic sizes. Eggs, stove, chestnut and pea. Every carload of blue coal is laboratory tested for purity and sizing before shipment from the mine. Blue coal burns steadily and evenly, sending a full supply of heat to the living quarters of your home even in the most severe weather. Get set for winter tomorrow by ordering Blue Coal. 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 Blue Coal.

[Pierre Martin]

You brill. You brill. Wake up. I have come for you. So you've come, Kove.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Oh, you poor deluded fool. You think I'd let you kill me in my sleep? I've been awake waiting here in the dark for you to come.

[Pierre Martin]

A little light. Help. So you've grown a beard since I saw you last. Purvey. And your hair is gray. That gun in your hand won't save you, Dubril. If I die, I will take.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Listen, Corvette. I didn't steal your food in the open boat, I swear.

[Pierre Martin]

You also betrayed me to the police. You told them where to find me. And I am not the only one you betrayed, am I, Dubriel? You betrayed Martin the time he tried to escape alone. Didn't you, Dubril?

[Blue Coal Announcer]

Yes, yes.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

But what do you care, Corvet? He wouldn't take me with him. But I did not betray you.

[Pierre Martin]

Have you paid Martin for those hundred lashes? And those hundred days of bread and water he got because you betrayed him? Oh, he doesn't know.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

He will never know it was I, Dubriel.

[Pierre Martin]

You remember how we passed the long days in that open boat? Throwing knives don't raise that night, Covey. We got so good. We seldom missed.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

I was shoot if you move.

[Pierre Martin]

But Martin was the best. You may shoot me, Dubril, but my knife won't miss. Wait.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Wait a minute, Corday. I will make a deal with you. Listen, Corday. You are out to get Evans and Martin too. If you throw that knife, I'll shoot you and you will never get them.

[Pierre Martin]

You would help me kill Evans? I know he's.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Yes, yes, yes. I hate Evans and Martin too. I will help you get them.

[The Shadow]

So you would betray Dr. Evans to save yourself To Brio the Shadow Corvette.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Don't be afraid. He's only a man. By some trick he can make himself invisible. But he's flesh and blood. Quick, lock the door. We'll deal with him first.

[Pierre Martin]

Walk it out Now.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Now, Shadow. What can you do to stop us?

[Pierre Martin]

Speak up.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

I dare you to speak.

[Pierre Martin]

Listen where his voice comes from, Dubril. Then shoot quickly. No, no, no.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

The shot would bring heavens and Martin. Throw your knife, Corvette.

[Pierre Martin]

Make him speak. I won't miss.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Speak up, Shadow. We will find you anyway. You can't get out.

[The Shadow]

I am here. In the corner.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

In the far corner. Throw your knife, Corvette.

[Pierre Martin]

I heard him.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

You missed.

[Pierre Martin]

But he was there.

[The Shadow]

No, only my voice was there.

[Pierre Martin]

He's there in front of you, Dubril. Shoot.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

Shoot.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Yes, yes, I will shoot now. Yes, I will shoot. But not the Shadow. He came here to help us catch you.

[Pierre Martin]

Corvette.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

And he has your knife. It's gone now. Corvette. You are helpless. And now I'll deal with you.

[Pierre Martin]

You treacherous snake.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

You fool. You think I carry only one knife? This one is for. Oh, you. Damn it. But I take you with me. Kamel. Gabriel. Gabriel. Camille. Camille. Camille.

[The Shadow]

Camille is dead.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Dr. Evans, whom has kept his word. Where is he?

[The Shadow]

Look there. On the floor, by the window.

[Pierre Martin]

Kobe.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Not Kobe.

[The Shadow]

Dubriel tried to save his life by promising to help that man kill you.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Dubriel. Dubriel offered to help Kobe kill me.

[The Shadow]

Look closely, Dr. Evans. Remove the gray wig and the false beard.

[Pierre Martin]

Wig.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

Beard. It's my turn.

[The Shadow]

Yes, Martin. Disguised as Cobay.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

Still alive.

[Pierre Martin]

Breathing. Get away from me, Evans. Don't touch me. I'll hate you.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

I hate you both. Why did you do this, Pierre?

[Pierre Martin]

Why? I hated Dubril because he betrayed me on Devil. Silence. I hated you, Evans, because you have got the things that I always wanted. Success, fame, glory. It was I sent the musical coffin. The warning note. I knew you'd think it was Kobe. I've got you, Brill. But Colby will get you, Evans.

[Narrator/Radio Host]

He's after you. He will get you. He will kill you.

[Dr. James Evans]

Stop breathing. Dead.

[The Shadow]

Yes, Dr. Evans. He is dead. You are quite safe now. You Forget Kove. No, Dr. Evans. I knew even when I phoned you today that it was not Covey who sent the musical coffin.

[Pierre Martin]

What?

[The Shadow]

I knew it was not Courbet. It had to be Martin or Dubril.

[Dr. James Evans]

Why didn't you stop them?

[The Shadow]

Martin and Dubriel were both criminals, plotting to kill you. If I'd stopped them, your life would have been in danger as long as they lived. Hating you always for having attained the things that life denied them.

[Dr. James Evans]

Forget Shadow. Courbet may find me succeed where Martin fails.

[The Shadow]

Never. I learned the whole history of all of you before I saw you. Yes, everything, Dr. Evans. Your escape from Devil's island after Dubriel's betrayal of Martin that resulted in the hundred lashes and his resolve for vengeance from the authorities at Devil's Island, I learned the truth about Kove's last escape.

[Dr. James Evans]

Yes, I see now. I see now why he hated us.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

But what about Covey?

[The Shadow]

You are safe now, Dr. Evans. Safe from Kove. The chain of logic is complete. Three months ago, a bleached skeleton was found on a deserted beach at Trinidad. It has just been identified as the body of Kove.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

Before we tell you of the Shadow's next exciting adventure, here's John Barclay, Blue Coal's famous Heating expert. Ladies and gentlemen, Mr. Barclay.

[Pierre Martin]

Good evening, friend. While you're doing your Christmas shopping, why.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

Not get a gift for your own home?

[Pierre Martin]

Something will not only make it a cheerier, happier place in which to live, but also make it easier to run. To my mind, the perfect gift for any home is a blue cold heat regulator. This marvelous thermostat provides the last word in comfort.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

For example, there's no running up and down stairs to open and close dampers.

[Pierre Martin]

The blue cold thermostat does that tiresome job automatically.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

Keeps your home at just the temperature you want from morning till night.

[Pierre Martin]

It can be attached to any kind of heating equipment.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

Steam, hot air, hot water, even a parlor heater. It will give you more uniform heat.

[Pierre Martin]

More economical heat than you can get.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

With the most expensive oil burner.

[Pierre Martin]

In fact, this blue coal heat regulator.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

Will completely modernize your present heating equipment.

[Pierre Martin]

Yet it cost only $18.95, plus a small installation charge.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

You'll be amazed at the amount of fuel it saves you. So this Christmas, give your family the.

[Pierre Martin]

Gift of a lifetime. A blue coal heat regulator.

[Blue Coal Announcer]

Your nearest Blue Coal dealer will be glad to give you complete information regarding it. Phone him tomorrow. Thank you, Ken Roberts. Thank you, Mr. Barclay. And friends. Take Mr. Barclay's good advice. Make this Christmas a memorable one. By having a blue cold heat regulator installed in your home, you'll save its small cost time and time again in fuel consumption. And you'll make your home a happier, healthier place in which to live. So don't wait. Phone your nearest Blue Coal dealer tomorrow. The story you have just heard is copyrighted by the Shadow magazine. The characters in this story are entirely fictitious. Any similarity to persons living or dead is purely coincidental. And at this time, may we remind you to mail your Christmas presents and cards early to secure delivery before December 24. There will be no post office service on December 25.

[Pierre Martin]

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

[Blue Coal Announcer]

Next week, same time, same station. Blue Coal, America's finest anthracite, will again present another thrilling adventure of the Shadow. Be sure to listen. Don't forget, next week, same time, same station, another thrilling adventure of the Shadow presented by America's finest anthracite, Blue Coal. And be sure to burn blue coal, the solid fuel for solid comfort. Sa.