The Shadow: The Plot Murder 02/27/1938

Summary

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Podcast Summary: Choice Classic Radio Detectives – The Shadow: "The Plot Murder" (02/27/1938)

Date: January 15, 2026 (Rebroadcast)
Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode Title: The Shadow: The Plot Murder
Original Air Date: February 27, 1938

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Overview

In this tense and thrilling adventure, The Shadow faces a diabolical plot to sabotage a secret national defense weapon, the "flying torpedo." When Lieutenant John Wilson is accused of treason and sabotage, Lamont Cranston (The Shadow’s alter ego) digs deeper, uncovering a sinister conspiracy involving mind control, espionage, and a plot to assassinate America’s top officials. The episode masterfully blends suspense, action, and psychological intrigue within the framework of Golden Age radio drama.

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Key Discussion Points and Plot Breakdown

The Court Martial and Sabotage (02:41–04:11)

• Lieutenant John Wilson is court-martialed and convicted of “treasonable sabotage” for disabling the experimental flying torpedo.
• Wilson's behavior in court is odd—he appears confused or possibly under some kind of trance.
  • Margot Lane expresses doubt about Wilson's guilt:

    “He acted…well, almost like a man in his trance.” (04:18, Margot Lane)

The Flying Torpedo: Stakes and Invention (04:14–05:14)

• The “flying torpedo”: A powerful, radio-guided missile, invented by Professor Archelis for military use.
• Lamont explains its deadly capabilities and strategic importance.

The Shadow Investigates Mind Control (05:24–08:49)

• Cranston decides to investigate Wilson as the Shadow.
• He observes Wilson demonstrating signs of hypnotic control; Professor Archelis is deeply involved and may have used mental manipulation:
  • Lamont Cranston:

    “Archelis has put Wilson under some strong mental influence. A sort of hypnotic telepathy.” (09:50, Cranston)

Archelis’ Sinister Plot Revealed (10:08–12:24)

• Archelis and his henchman, Barloff, reveal their true intent:
  • The steering mechanism on the torpedo has been sabotaged to cause it to turn back and destroy America’s top leaders at a demonstration with the President, VP, and cabinet present.
  • Archelis boasts:

    “They've fallen into my trap. They'll be blown off the face of the earth just as I planned.” (10:54, Archelis)

• Barloff checks for any sign of being watched, showing their paranoia.

The Shadow Confronts Archelis (13:38–14:36)

• The Shadow confronts Archelis directly about the hypnotic control of Wilson.
• Archelis shrugs off the threat, claiming Shadow has no “power” over his magic.
• The Shadow warns:

  "If any blood is shed, it will be yours—not the Shadow’s." (14:17, The Shadow)

Attempt to Prevent Disaster: Bureaucratic Obstinance (16:14–18:39)

• Cranston tries to convince General Levitt to ensure Archelis’ presence at the torpedo test; Levitt remains skeptical, viewing Cranston's concerns as “imagination running away.”

Crime and Escalation: General Levitt Murdered (18:07–19:43)

• Archelis and Barloff attack General Levitt when their plot is nearly uncovered.
• They plan to further silence Wilson and hasten their escape.

Desperate Rescue: The Shadow Breaks the Spell (21:12–22:20)

• Archelis tries to drive Wilson to suicide under hypnosis.
• The Shadow intervenes just in time, saving Wilson and finally breaking the hypnotic spell.
  • The Shadow:

    "John... Something's happened to me. I feel that I can talk now." (22:13, The Shadow/Wilson)

The Truth Comes Out: The Boomerang Torpedo (22:20–23:08)

• Wilson reveals Archelis' plan: The flying torpedo will double back and strike the point of origin, killing assembled leaders.
  • Wilson:

    “The rudder is set so the torpedo will fly in a complete circle…and strike the point from which it was sent.” (22:32, Wilson)

  • The Shadow rallies the authorities to halt the test immediately.

Showdown at the Dock: Archelis and Barloff Cornered (23:08–26:25)

• Police intercept Barloff and Archelis at the South Pier as they try to escape by freighter.
• In a brief shootout, both are apprehended; Archelis is mortally wounded.
• Commissioner Weston lauds The Shadow:

  “You’ve saved the lives of thousands of spectators, to say nothing of some of our highest government officials.” (25:23, Commissioner Weston)

Justice and Vindication (26:03–26:34)

• With his dying breath, Archelis clears Lieutenant Wilson of all guilt.

• The conspirators' plot is foiled, and the narrative closes on a patriotic note exalting civic duty, vigilance, and the triumph of good over evil.

  • The Shadow’s closing words:

    "Crime does not pay. The Shadow knows." (30:33, The Shadow)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Margot Lane on Wilson’s Behavior (04:18):
  “He acted…well, almost like a man in his trance.”
• Archelis’ Malice Revealed (10:54):
  “They've fallen into my trap. They'll be blown off the face of the earth just as I planned.”
• The Shadow, with justifiable menace (14:17):
  "If any blood is shed, it will be yours—not the Shadow’s."
• Wilson Describes the Boomerang Mechanism (22:32):
  “The rudder is set so the torpedo will fly in a complete circle…and strike the point from which it was sent.”
• Commissioner Weston on The Shadow’s Heroism (25:23):
  “You’ve saved the lives of thousands of spectators, to say nothing of some of our highest government officials.”
• The Shadow’s Final Word (30:33):
  "Crime does not pay. The Shadow knows."

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Important Segment Timestamps

• [02:41] – Start of the court martial and setup of the sabotage accusation
• [04:14] – [05:14] – Exposition of the flying torpedo and its importance
• [05:24] – [08:49] – Evidence of Wilson’s hypnotic manipulation; The Shadow’s first intervention
• [10:08] – [12:24] – The true plot: weapon sabotage, assassination plan, villain exposition
• [13:38] – [14:36] – The Shadow confronts Professor Archelis
• [18:07] – [19:43] – Levitt’s murder and the villains seek to silence all witnesses
• [21:12] – [22:20] – The Shadow breaks Archelis’ hypnotic spell over Wilson
• [22:20] – [23:08] – Wilson reveals the full mechanics of the plot
• [23:08] – [26:25] – Final confrontation and the villains’ capture
• [26:03] – [26:34] – Wilson’s innocence is established
• [30:33] – The Shadow’s iconic closing line

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Tone and Style

Classic radio drama style: urgent, earnest, moralistic, and atmospheric. The interplay between Cranston and Margot Lane is supportive and brisk, while the Shadow’s verbal battles with villains drip with cold confidence and righteous threat. Archelis is performed with suave menace, and the pacing escalates rapidly from conspiracy to action to resolution.

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Conclusion

This quintessential episode of The Shadow combines a compelling conspiracy, psychological intrigue, and a proto-techno-thriller plot, all framed in the crisp, moral universe of early radio drama. The famous “crime does not pay” ethos is pronounced, and The Shadow again emerges as the vigilant, incorruptible defender against the dark designs of evildoers.

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Transcript

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[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

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].

[The Shadow]

Shadow knows.

[Narrator]

Again Blue Coal dealers present radio's strangest adventurer, the Shadow mystery man who strikes terror into the very hearts of shops, lawbreakers and criminals. Today, Blue Coal brings you the Shadow's latest adventure, the plot Murder. In just a moment, the Shadow's exciting adventure will begin. Meanwhile, I have something important to tell all you homeowners. During this treacherous winter season, you can protect your family's health by burning blue coal for blue coals. Harmless blue coloring is your guarantee of clean, uniform, healthful heat all winter long. Saves you money, too, for it burns steadily, completely down to a fine powdery ash. So next time you are buying fuel, ask for Blue Coal by name. It's Pennsylvania's finest anthracite. Order a trial ton from your nearest blue coal dealer tomorrow. An important announcement. Just before going on the air with today's adventure of the Shadow, we received a telegram from the American Police Review presenting the Shadow with a special award. Be sure to hear this official presentation at the close of this program. And now, Lou Cole presents the Shadow in the Plot Murder.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Captain Hines, read the findings of this court martial. We find the accused, Lieutenant John Wilson, guilty of treasonable sabotage against the government.

[Narrator]

No. In that he willfully destroyed a secret.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Device known as the flying torpedo, invented by one George Achilles and acquired exclusively for use by the government. Has the prisoner anything to say before sentence is pronounced?

[Narrator]

Yes, yes, but what can he say?

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

He admits he broke the mechanism on the demonstration torpedo. Quiet, please. Professor Archelis, as the inventor, we understand your concern in this letter, but please don't interrupt. Well, Lieutenant Wilson?

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

I, I, I don't know, sir. I can hear all that's going on.

[Narrator]

But I, I went into the.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

It's obvious, General Leavitt, that Lieutenant Wilson is not mentally accountable. Sufficiently accountable to enter the testing shed by virtue of his authority as an army lieutenant. And to tamper with the flying torpedo and render it useless. The very day it was to Be demonstrated to the government. Read the sentence of the court. Lieutenant Wilson, this court decides, subject to the approval of the President, that you will be dishonorably discharged from the service of your country and sentenced to imprisonment for the term of that.

[Narrator]

No, no. Don't you touch the man. Professor Archelis, he's wounded.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Professor Arcanis, call the doctor. Take Lieutenant Wilson back to his cell.

[Margot Lane]

Come on, Cranston. I tell you, John Wilson can't be guilty. He just can't.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Why not, Margaret? After all, traitorous army officers are not unknown to history.

[Margot Lane]

Yes, but the peculiar way John Wilson talked on the stand makes me think there's something strange about the whole scene. He acted. Well, almost like a man in his trance. Lamont, just what is this flying torpedo he's supposed to have tampered with?

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

It's what its name implies. A sort of aerial torpedo filled with high explosives, flying under its own power. Once it's launched into the air, instead of flying a predetermined course, its direction can be guided by radio beams from an observation plane flying high above it. Imagine its tremendous effectiveness in warfare. Deadly accuracy in hitting even a fast moving target, like a. A troop trainer. A supply ship.

[Margot Lane]

Sounds tremendously important. Who invented it?

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

This man, Archelis, who demonstrated it last week at the proving grounds before a large delegation from the capital. Besides being members of the War Department, a great many high officials and other branches of government were to attend the test. Well, since your friend Wilson gained access to the laboratory and put the flying torpedo out of commission, the test has been postponed until tomorrow.

[Margot Lane]

And who is Archelis? Where did he come from?

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Famous foreign inventories.

[Narrator]

My reputation abroad.

[Margot Lane]

Lamont, you don't suppose it's possible Archelis has the boy under some strong mental influence?

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Possible.

[Margot Lane]

They've got Wilson temporarily in the city jail. Won't you call on him as the Shadow?

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Margot, you honestly think that this case warrants my attention?

[Margot Lane]

As a shadow, Lamont, I don't ask many favors. But I have a feeling John Wilson is innocent.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

All right, Margot, you're really serious. The Shadow will pay a call on John Wilson in the city jail.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Lieutenant Wilson is in that last cell for Mr. Archelis.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Thank you, God. He's fought for General Leviticus. Do you take it or do I keep it? And you better keep it, sir, in case you want to use it again. Yes, that's right. You'll.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

You'll have to talk to Wilson through the bars.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

No one's allowed in his cell. Thank you. I have no desire to go in. I already have one Arm in his sling. Due to the young man's temper, there's only one or two questions I want to ask him. Then I'll leave. Well.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Who is it?

[Narrator]

You. Our cannon.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Don't get excited, Lieutenant Wilson. I only came to tell you that you're a much better mechanic than a marksman. Your bullet only injured my arm. I'm only sorry I didn't. Didn't kill me. The only way you can break the spell I have of you, isn't it to kill me?

[Narrator]

Will somebody kill.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Look in my eyes.

[The Shadow]

No.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Look. No, I won't. John Wilson. Look in my eyes.

[Narrator]

No.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Look in my eyes, Wilson. That's right. Now repeat after me. I destroyed the torpedo. I destroyed the torpedo. Say it. I. I destroyed the torpedo. Sabotage against my country. Sabotage against my country. I am guilty. I am guilty. That is all you remember?

[The Shadow]

Are you sure that's all he remembers? Professor Rkalis.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Who said that? Guard. You are there.

[The Shadow]

No, not the guard, Professor. He's waiting at the end of the passage.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

You hide somewhere in the next cell, perhaps?

[The Shadow]

No. I am here in the shadows. Professor Arcanis. Perhaps you've heard of me.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Who are you? The Shadow. The Shadow.

[Narrator]

Help me. Help me.

[The Shadow]

I am your friend, John Wilson.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Think.

[The Shadow]

Now concentrate. What is it you're trying to remember?

[Narrator]

It's that torpedo. Dangerous, Wilson.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Be quiet.

[The Shadow]

Steady. Now, think.

[Narrator]

Think.

[The Shadow]

You can break through this spell.

[Narrator]

I tried to make them understand that I destroyed the torpedo.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

I command you to stop.

[The Shadow]

John.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Your friends believe in you. They're trying to help you. Wilson, what have you committed? My country? I am guilty. I am guilty. Oh, Mr. Shadow, whoever you are, you'll see you.

[The Shadow]

Have a powerful spell over the boy, Professor. But there is a way to break it.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

What way, Shadow?

[The Shadow]

If you don't know, I have no.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Intention of telling you yet.

[The Shadow]

Margot Lane. Margot Lane. Stand by.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Archelis has put Wilson under some strong mental influence. A sort of hypnotic telepathy. The voice of conscious is dominated by the thought Arcanis plants.

[The Shadow]

There.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

We must weaken Achelous hold on Wilson's.

[The Shadow]

Mind so we can find out if.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

He'S guilty or not. Stand ready for another call.

[Narrator]

Tonight I'm going to pay a surprise.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Visit to Professor Achalis at his hotel. I have a feeling that if we're not successful in getting Wilson to talk, this country of ours may suffer a terrible disaster. Did anyone follow you here to the hotel? No, no one. Professor Akalis.

[The Shadow]

Good.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

The test will take place tomorrow. Yes, at 3 o'. Clock. The War Department is so convinced your invention will render any Nation possessing it invincible. That the high command of both the army and Navy are to be there to witness the test. President too? Yes. The President and the Vice President expect to attend. Together with the Secretary of War and the Secretary of the Navy. They've fallen into my trap. They'll be blown off the face of the earth just as I planned. Far off. Be sure you make a final inspection before the torpedo is taken out of the ground and see that the steering mechanism is set. I understand. But since I am your chief assistant, they might ask me to go along with them. No, they won't. I fix that. Their bungling army mechanics think they understand the flying torpedo perfectly. So to satisfy their pride, I've let them take complete charge of the demonstration. Good. Don't worry, Bar.

[Narrator]

And afterwards?

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Afterwards? With the guiding brains of the nation wiped out at a single stroke, the country will be thrown into confusion, disorganized. We'll have nothing to fear. I see. There are only two things that bother me slightly. Lieutenant Wilson, for one.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Wilson?

[Narrator]

Did he really discover the secret trick of the steering mechanism?

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Yes. He knows what we intend to do and how we intend to do it.

[Narrator]

You should have disposed of him at once.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

I thought of that. I was afraid it would arouse suspicion. But I'm keeping Wilson under mental hypnotic control until it's too late for him to stop us. Wouldn't it be better if he were dead? Perhaps I can still visit him at the. And what is the other thing that bothers you, Professor? Only a shadow bar. But I'm not quite sure of the extent of its power. Shadow? Don't worry. I think I can take care of it too. Listen. What is it? I thought I heard footsteps outside in the hall.

[Narrator]

Go and look.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

There's no one here. Or is empty. Must be my nerve. I'll be glad when this is all over. Our escape is Tickham Caliph. Yes. The Fredo will be waiting for us at South Pier. But go now, Carl. And success to you. Good night. Good night. Barlos.

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[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

The Shadow. I can't put my willpower against the Shadow. Then I deserve to lose. And I've never yet.

[The Shadow]

Good evening, Professor Achalis.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

You, Shadow. You've come.

[The Shadow]

Yes, Professor. Why do you hold Lieutenant Wilson in a hypnotic spell, Professor?

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

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

[The Shadow]

We don't see. Now, I have something else to tell you.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

What?

[The Shadow]

Wilson knows something about you, Professor. I'm going to find out what it is.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

All right, Shadow.

[Narrator]

You know a little.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

But you'll never learn more from Wilson. No one can break the spell. Not you, nor all your childish magic.

[The Shadow]

You forget greater magic. Achelous.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

What? Death. Death.

[The Shadow]

Yes. It's on the way. Professor, I can promise you this. If you any blood is shed, it will be yours. Not the shadows.

[Narrator]

The second part of the shadows. Adventure will continue in just a moment. Meanwhile, here's some interesting information. Every day, more and more families throughout this area are saving money on their heating and cooking bills. These families are getting better and more economical heat than ever before with Blue coal. Blue coal is anthracite. It is an American product mined by the Glen Alden Coal Company, who are deeply grateful for the purchases of blue coal by families throughout this area. Today, Blue coal is the largest selling brand of home fuel in America because it is the only fuel that so satisfactorily combines all of the essentials necessary necessary for perfect heating results. It is superior in quality, cleaner than most fuels and economical because it burns long and steadily down to a fine powdery ash. Furthermore, there can be no substitution when ordering blue coal because it is the only solid fuel actually trademarked with a blue tint so that you can identify it at a glance. These are a few reasons why in Watertown, New York, blue coal sales this winter show a 29% increase over the same period a year ago. So take a tip from Watertown, New York, family order Blue Coal by name. You will find the name of your nearest blue coal dealer listed in the where to buy it section of your classified telephone directory under the name Blue Coal.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

But I. I tell you, General Levitt.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Excuse me, Colonel.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Go right ahead, General.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Hello? General Levitt speaking. Oh, yes. Good morning, Captain Hines.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

That's fine.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

You have the flying torpedo loaded and ready for the demonstration.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Good.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

I'll expect a report.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Sorry I can't be with you. Good night.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Now, Cranston, to get back to this Lieutenant Wilson, I don't see what I can do.

[Narrator]

There may be some desperate plot at.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

The bottom of this Wilson acts as if he'd been put under some powerful, if not expel. He might know something about this flying torpedo that you ought to know.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

For heaven's sake, Granson, I haven't time to listen to any sort of drivel. I know you're a very agreeable young man and you mean well, but you're letting your imagination run away with you. Now, if you don't mind, I must get ready to leave for the capital.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Very well. Just do me one favor. General Levitt might prove something to you.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

What is it?

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Suggest to Professor Archelis that he be present with the other official visitors at the proving grounds. The demonstration starts.

[Narrator]

Of course.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Professor Archelis will be there. Why shouldn't he be?

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

That's what I'd like to know. Unless I'm very much mistaken, General, Professor Archelis has made arrangements to be far, far away from the scene of his triumph.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

George Cranston, I believe you know something.

[Narrator]

Excuse me, sir.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Well?

[Narrator]

There are two gentlemen here to see you, sir.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Professor Archelaus and another man.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

All right, show them in.

[Narrator]

General Levitt will see you.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Thank you. I'm sorry to interrupt you, General Levitt. That's all right.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

This is Mr. Cranston, Professor Archelis and Mr. Barloff.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

How do you do?

[Narrator]

How do you do?

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

If you don't mind, Mr. Cranston, I'd like to speak to General Levitt and Old. Not at all. I'm sure you have weighty matters to discuss. Good day, gentlemen.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Thanks, Clenson. Goodbye. Orderly.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Yes, General Levitt?

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Is my luggage ready?

[The Shadow]

Yes, sir.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Fine. Then take the next train. There's one leaving in 20 minutes. Can you make it?

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Yes, sir.

[Narrator]

If I go now, sir?

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Go ahead. Then I'll close the office. I'll meet you in the Capitol tomorrow.

[The Shadow]

Yes.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Well, what brings you here, professor? Oh, sit down, Mr. Barlow.

[Narrator]

Thank you, sir.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Barlow. Pierre has just returned from the proving ground, General. He supervised the loading of the torpedo early this morning.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Everything was all right, I hope.

[Narrator]

Perfect.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Your army mechanics seem very proud. They're going to handle the torpedo by the. Of course, we'll be anxious to know how it comes out.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Oh, aren't you going to be at the demonstration, Professor?

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

I'm afraid not. Another engagement unfortunately prevents my attendance. Yes, I see.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

But I can't understand how anything would be more important to you than seeing your own invention demonstrated before the highest officials of our government.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

I admit I'm terribly disappointed, General. However, I've left instructions for a telephone message to be sent to me at my hotel. Vi the demonstration is over.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Professor, I'm not sure that this test should be made without your being there.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

What do you mean?

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Suppose I order you to go?

[Narrator]

But no, that's impossible.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Why impossible? Mr. Bar.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

You must excuse Barloff. General Levitt. He's a little excited.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Excited? What about? Look here, Professor Archelis. Why don't you want to go to the proving ground?

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Must I repeat my previous statement?

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Stalling and hedging is very suspicious. By George, you'll go whether you want to or not. Don't touch that phone.

[Narrator]

Barloff.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Be careful. You can't give me orders in my own office.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

You hit him too hard, Barloff. His head is bleeding. He struck the desk when he fell. Yeah. Drag him in his closet. Knock the door.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

He knows something, Professor.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Yes, he poor or suspects something. But how?

[Narrator]

And we've got to act quickly.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

I wonder if Lieutenant Wilson has talked.

[Narrator]

But you said he's still under your hypnotic speaker.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Well, perhaps it would be better if Lieutenant Wilson died.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Yeah. We're going to murder him.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Oh, I merely suggest that he kill himself. Oh, B. You'll try out the General. Look at him. What? General Levitt is dead. Well, here's General Levit's office, Margot.

[Margot Lane]

No one seems to be here, Lamont.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

That's odd. General was here less than an hour ago. General. General Levitt.

[Narrator]

Look here, on the corner of the dead blood.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Word to Commissioner Weston at once. Tell him something has happened to General Levitt.

[Margot Lane]

Yes. Anything else?

[The Shadow]

Yes.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Tell him to send a squad of men to south pier. I overheard Professor Archelis and Barloff talking about meeting on a freighter there.

[Margot Lane]

Where are you going?

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

I'm going to the jail. I'm going to make one more desperate attempt to get John Wilson to talk. We've got to find out what this is all about before it's too late. Do you want me to wait here at the jail whenever I kill us?

[The Shadow]

No.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Go down to south pier, Bala. I want to be alone with Lieutenant Wilson. Yes. I'll follow after I've taken care of him.

[The Shadow]

All right.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

At first I'll collect the baggage. But you remember only this Lieutenant Wilson. See? Always my eyes in front of you. Yes. You will forever do what I tell you to.

[Margot Lane]

Stop.

[Narrator]

Leave me alone.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

No. Never. Look, Wilson. See what I have? A knife. Here, take it. Now listen to me. You are disgraced. Your family disgraced. You have nothing more to live for. Say it. I have nothing more to live for. I. I have nothing more to live for. Then draw the knife across your wrists. It's easy. Stop. John.

[The Shadow]

Don't do it.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Shut him. He's trying to make me.

[Narrator]

Keep away from me.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Wilson.

[Narrator]

I've got you.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Get go of me. Wilson.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Jalous.

[Narrator]

Did you feel the knife yourself? Yes. You cut me, you fool.

[The Shadow]

Your blood is being shed, Professor. Remember what I told you.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Let me out of here.

[Narrator]

Let me out.

[The Shadow]

He's gone. John.

[Narrator]

Something.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Something's happened to me.

[Narrator]

I feel that I can talk now.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Then talk.

[The Shadow]

Tell me what you know. Achaelus's spell is weakened.

[Narrator]

I can't see you. I don't know who you are, but you've got to help me. I first suspected Achelous and his crowd when. When I saw that the steering mechanism of the flying torpedo had an extra attachment.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Extra attachment?

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Yes.

[Narrator]

You see, the flying torpedo is supposed to be steered by radio beams from an accompanying plane. But this extra attachment I'm talking about would. Would render the radio beams ineffective. In other words, the rudder is set so the torpedo will fly in a complete circle and come back and strike the point from which it was sent.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Like a boomerang.

[The Shadow]

If it does that in the demonstrations of the day, it will wipe out all the important government officials.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Yes, that's their plan.

[Narrator]

Just as I made the discovery, archaeologist came in into the workshop. I accused him and he put me under this spell. I. I tried to talk, but I couldn't.

[The Shadow]

Never mind that. I'll get in touch with Commissioner Weston. Have him go to the proving grounds. He can stop the test flight of.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

This flying torpedo if he gets there. What's the idea of having us wait around here at the south pier? There don't seem to be anything stirring.

[Narrator]

Who are the guys?

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

We're supposed to pick up two birds for the name of Professor Rus and Barloff. Foreigners, huh? Yeah.

[Narrator]

What are they going to do? Make a getaway?

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

I don't know.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Mr. Way just said to make sure we got on that zone. If it had been that important, don't.

[Narrator]

You think the Commissioner would have come down here himself?

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Well, he was coming, but he got a last minute call to go over the place where they're trying out that new flying torpedo. Oh yeah, I read about that. All these inventions.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

What about us?

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Somebody coming down the dock. Hey, you.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Hey, stop where you are.

[Narrator]

I'll shoot.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

What's this all about? Nothing. Where are you going? That is my business. What's your name? Come on, what's your name?

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Are you Baloff? What is it for you?

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Answer me.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

A yoboff?

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Yes.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

That's all we wanted to know.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Yeah. Come on, come on.

[Narrator]

Why don't you take him.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

I have done nothing. He's got a gun, Sergeant.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

I'm sorry Sergeant, I had to do it. That's okay. This Achelous will probably be long. In a minute. Put this boy behind those. We don't want Archelis.

[Narrator]

Hey, look out.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Here comes another guy. Down the dock. Quick.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Behind this planet.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Come on. Must be rkless. Yeah, I guess.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

That'S a Rockelis.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Where are you? The police, they want to ask you.

[Narrator]

What?

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Well, you can't get me to talk.

[Narrator]

You'll never make me.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Look out. Look out, Serge. He's got a gun there. Drop that gun. Can't take me.

[Narrator]

The police can't touch me. You asked for it.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

You nailed him. Todd, you get to. Oh, I'm okay.

[Narrator]

Here comes the parole. Must have heard the shot.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Harley didn't have time.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Oh, Commissioner Weston.

[Narrator]

Yes, Sergeant. You got her man. Yep, he did.

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

I don't think so, sir.

[Narrator]

Well, Rclus, maybe you'll talk.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

I'll never talk.

[The Shadow]

Commissioner Weston.

[Narrator]

Shadow. What are you doing here?

[The Shadow]

We can't waste time, Commissioner. Did you stop the test of the flying torpedo?

[Captain Hines / General Levitt]

Yes, but.

[The Shadow]

Good, Commissioner. You've saved the lives of thousands of spectators. Say nothing of some of our highest government officials.

[Narrator]

Then it was you.

[The Shadow]

Yes, I had a friend of mine call you. And now Professor Archelis. I have a story. You haven't much time.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

I know. I'm dying, Shadow.

[The Shadow]

It was a plot against our national defense.

[Narrator]

Wasn't.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Was.

[The Shadow]

Who employed you to do it, Matt? I won't tell you, but Lieutenant Wilson is innocent.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Yes, Wilson is innocent.

[The Shadow]

Commissioner, you're a witness. Lieutenant Wilson is cleared.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Yes, General.

[The Shadow]

What about General Levitt?

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Barloff killed him. Where is Barloff? He got him behind these boxes.

[The Shadow]

How?

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

How did you know about General Levitt?

[The Shadow]

We found blood on his desk. But this time the blood is yours, Archelis.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Yes, mine. Well, Cheryl Achaelis is dead.

[The Shadow]

Yes, Commissioner. You've been instrumental in averting a national calamity. Achelous dead. The innocence of Lt. Wilson has been proved. And the integrity of the men who protect our liberty is again vindicated.

[Narrator]

And now here is John Barkley, blue coal heating expert with helpful heating hints for you.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

Thank you. Ken Roberts. Good evening, friends. I've received numerous letters from homeowners asking what they can do to prevent chimney loss. Wasted heat that goes up the chimney instead of through the pipes of your heating system. It's really a simple matter to prevent this. And you will save money on your fuel bills too. The next time you refuel the fire, move the handle of the turn damper. That plate like damper inside the smoke pipe 1/16 of an inch toward the closed upright position. Then, if the fire still burns too freely, close the turn damper another 16th of an inch. Repeat this operation until you've found the correct adjustment. Once you've found this ideal adjustment of the turn damper, mark the position on the smoke pipe with a piece of chalk or something that can be plainly seen. Then leave the damper set at that mark. Remember, the nearer the turn damper is set to a closed position, the smaller the chimney loss and the greater the volume of useful heat. If you follow questions that I give every Sunday on this program, they should enable you to heat your home with the utmost efficiency and economy. However, if you're experiencing trouble with your heating plant, call your nearest Blue Coal dealer and ask him to send a John Barclay, trained serviceman to your home to inspect your furnace. This service is free to all Blue Coal customers. I thank you. Thank you, Mr. Barclay.

[Narrator]

And here's the official telegram advising of the award the American Police Review has made to the Shadow program. The American Police Review salutes the producers and sponsors of the Shadow for their contribution to the cause of better law enforcement. 13,000 police executives throughout the United States read the review. So our purpose is to help them find the best tools and methods to combat crime. The editors of the Review have turned a critical ear toward the Shadow program for some time and are gratified to note that your presentation of police roles truly reflects the intelligence and character of of the high type of police officer now found throughout the land. We therefore take pleasure in presenting to you the American Police Review Certificate of Award for distinguished service to the cause of better Law enforcement. Signed, J. Norval Burch, editor of the American Police Review, Chicago, Illinois. And so, on behalf of Blue Coal dealers and of all those who assist in the weekly programs of the Shadow, we tender our thanks and appreciation to editor Jay Norval Birch and the American Police Review for their splendid testimonials. You have just heard a dramatized version of one of the many copyrighted stories which appear in the Shadow magazine. All the characters and all the places named are fictitious. Any similarity to persons living or dead is purely coincidental.

[Lamont Cranston (The Shadow's alter ego)]

As you sow evil, so shall you reap evil.

[The Shadow]

Crime does not pay. A Shadow knows.

[Narrator]

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 and be sure to burn. Blue Coal, the solid fuel for solid comfort.

[Choice Classic Radio Announcer]

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