A Man Named Jordan 45-02-28 (1) Senor Chavez

Summary

Podcast Summary: "A Man Named Jordan 45-02-28 (1) Señor Chavez" – Released May 8, 2025

Harold's Old Time Radio transports listeners back to the Golden Age of Radio, capturing the essence of pre-television family evenings spent engrossed in captivating radio dramas. In the episode titled "A Man Named Jordan 45-02-28 (1) Señor Chavez," hosted by Harolds Old Time Radio, listeners are immersed in a suspenseful narrative set against the vibrant backdrop of Istanbul's Grand Bazaar during a tumultuous wartime period.

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Introduction to the Setting

The episode opens in a narrow street adjacent to Istanbul's Grand Bazaar, near the Mosque Valid Sultan. The focal point is the Cafe Tambourine, a bustling establishment thick with the aroma of oriental tobaccos and alive with a cacophony of diverse languages. The scene is meticulously crafted to evoke the tension and intrigue of a locale where danger and mystery intertwine.

Narrator:
A man named Jordan. In a narrow street off Istanbul's Grand Bazaar, not far from the Mosque Valid Sultan stands the Cafe Tambourine, run by a man named Jordan. The Cafe Tambourine, clouded with the smoke of oriental tobaccos, crowded with humanity, alive with the battle of many languages.

[00:45]

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Introducing the Protagonist and His Allies

Rocky Jordan, the central character, is introduced as a cunning and resourceful individual navigating the perilous intersections of espionage and organized crime.

Duke, Rocky's associate, and Tony are also mentioned, although their roles remain less defined at this point. The episode hints at a larger network of characters and underlying tensions shaped by wartime alliances and betrayals.

Narrator:
Rocky Jordan's faithful Man Friday has just told Rocky, Duke, and Tony of a discovery made by his nephew who is in the employ of a Spaniard named Chavez.

[01:43]

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Unveiling the Central Conflict

Rocky learns from his Man Friday, Trifles, about mysterious activities at Señor Chavez's residence. Numerous shipments labeled as "merchandise" are arriving, containing valuables such as money, gold, precious stones, and art objects. These shipments are trafficked by individuals with diverse European backgrounds but Central European accents, suggesting clandestine operations.

Trifles:
Rocky, my friend. Sit down, sit down.

[02:53]

Rocky theorizes that Chavez is facilitating the escape of Nazi war criminals, using his establishment as a smuggling hub. Intrigued by the potential profits and the moral implications, Rocky decides to investigate further.

Rocky Jordan:
Sounds very possible. What's the deal?

[03:27]

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Strategizing the Investigation

Rocky arranges to meet with Trifles the following day to discuss the operation. His enthusiasm is palpable as he contemplates partnering with Trifles, whom he considers a valuable asset despite the illicit nature of his activities.

Rocky Jordan:
He's my pigeon.

[04:25]

Duke:
Sounds like a job that could be enjoyed.

[06:53]

Rocky and Duke discuss the broader implications of the Nazi presence in Turkey, emphasizing the urgency to intercept these war criminals before they can escape justice. Rocky expresses disdain for the Nazis, portraying them as the true villains of the war.

Rocky Jordan:
These big shots are taking a powder. They know they're whipped. They know they're slated for a blank wall and a firing squad.

[07:00]

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A Day in Rocky's World

The narrative shifts to the following morning, depicting Rocky waking up with a sense of foreboding. His broken arm requires assistance, highlighting a vulnerability in his otherwise formidable persona. Ollie, his loyal servant, aids him in preparing for the day's challenges.

Ollie:
Rocky, you are so impatient.

[08:30]

Rocky's interactions with Ollie reveal the depth of their relationship, showcasing loyalty and mutual respect. As they prepare for the meeting, the tension builds, foreshadowing significant developments.

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Engagement with Authorities

Duke returns from a meeting at the British Embassy with Major Pettigrew, indicating that higher authorities are aware of the brewing conflict. Pettigrew expresses support for Rocky's suspicions about the crowds in Istanbul serving as a cover for Chavez's operations and offers collaboration.

Duke:
He wants to work with you.

[12:15]

Rocky asserts his authority within the operation, ensuring that strategic decisions remain under his control to maintain the secrecy and effectiveness of their mission.

Rocky Jordan:
I'll make the contacts and the decisions.

[13:13]

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Climax: Preparing for Confrontation

As preparations continue, Ollie informs Rocky that Chavez's nephew is arriving with crucial information. The anticipation crescendos as Rocky gears up to confront the revelations that will either solidify their mission or thrust them into deeper peril.

Ollie:
Senior Chavez had sent him to town on an errand and he came by here. Can you see him now?

[08:54]

Narrator:
These are exciting days in Istanbul and at the Cafe Tambourine with Turkey. In the war against the Axis nations, many things are happening and Rocky Jordan is going to be interested in an exciting new venture.

[14:18]

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Conclusion and Tease for the Next Episode

The episode concludes with a promise of escalating tensions and impending confrontations, setting the stage for the next installment. Rocky's determination to dismantle Chavez's network is clear, but the arrival of Chavez's nephew suggests complexities that await.

Narrator:
Don't miss tomorrow's dramatic episode of A Man Named Jordan.

[14:18]

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Rocky Jordan:
  "Sounds very possible. What's the deal?"
  [03:27]

• Rocky Jordan:
  "These big shots are taking a powder. They know they're whipped. They know they're slated for a blank wall and a firing squad."
  [07:00]

• Duke:
  "He wants to work with you."
  [12:15]

• Ollie:
  "My nephew is very excited, Rocky. He says that he has news of the utmost importance for you."
  [13:47]

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Insights and Themes

The episode delves into themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the moral ambiguities of wartime alliances. Rocky Jordan embodies the archetypal anti-hero, navigating a world where legal and illegal lines are blurred in the pursuit of justice and survival. The narrative underscores the chaos and desperation that allow war criminals to exploit geopolitical turmoil for personal gain.

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Conclusion

"A Man Named Jordan 45-02-28 (1) Señor Chavez" masterfully sets up a complex web of intrigue and suspense. Through compelling character dynamics and a richly detailed setting, Harold's Old Time Radio engages listeners in a timeless tale of espionage and moral conflict. As Rocky Jordan prepares to confront the hidden threats within Istanbul, listeners are left eagerly anticipating the unfolding drama in the subsequent episode.

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Thank you for tuning into Harold's Old Time Radio. Stay tuned for more immersive stories from the golden era of radio entertainment.

Transcript

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[Rocky Jordan]

In those places in this world where intrigue and danger go hand in hand, where death and disaster are the rewards of weakness, in such places will be found.

[Narrator]

A man named Jordan In a narrow street off Istanbul's Grand Bazaar, not far from the Mosque Valid Sultan stands the Cafe Tambourine, run by a man named Jordan. The Cafe Tambourine, clouded with the smoke of oriental tobaccos, crowded with humanity, alive with the battle of many languages.

[Duke]

Holly.

[Narrator]

Rocky, Jordan's faithful Man Friday has just told Rocky, Duke and Tony of a discovery made by his nephew who is in the employ of a Spaniard named Chavez A At the home of Chavez, many strange things have been happening. Many trunks, boxes and crates have arrived. Many strange men and women with Spanish, Swedish and Swiss names, but with the accents of Central Europe pass through the home of Chavez. Ali's nephew reports that the boxes which arrive labeled merchandise contain money, gold, precious stones, art objects, things of great value which are hidden in the basement. Rocky, intrigued by the possibilities of profit in this information, shows interest in further investigation. His theory is that Mr. Chavez has established a station for escaping Nazi war criminals. When the others leave, Rocky drifts down into the cafe. And when he sees an old acquaintance, an international crook rejoicing in the name of triflets, he walks over to his table and says.

[Rocky Jordan]

Hello. Trifles. How's tricks?

[Trifles]

Rocky, my friend. Sit down, sit down.

[Rocky Jordan]

Thanks. I haven't seen you for some time. Where you been?

[Trifles]

Oh, I have been away. I making arrangements to enter a new business. Rocky, I am now engaged in that business.

[Rocky Jordan]

No kidding? Anything legal? Enough to talk about?

[Trifles]

Oh, Rocky, I'm afraid not. But a fine occupation. Very remunerative and no risk.

[Rocky Jordan]

Sounds good. Making any money?

[Trifles]

Rocky, you wouldn't believe it. Such money I have never seen. I. I think perhaps you would be interested.

[Rocky Jordan]

Sounds very possible. What's the deal?

[Trifles]

It is not within the law, Rocky.

[Rocky Jordan]

Go on.

[Trifles]

It is an operation which helps many people. People who are in danger.

[Rocky Jordan]

Sounds better all the time. How about a breakdown on it?

[Trifles]

I cannot talk here, Rocky. Tomorrow perhaps in. I need a partner.

[Rocky Jordan]

Rocky. Okay. Tomorrow at noon. Be there.

[Trifles]

I shall be there.

[Rocky Jordan]

Rocky, it's a deal. So long, Trifless.

[Trifles]

Deal tomorrow, then.

[Duke]

Hey, what's that big smile on your kisser for, Rocky?

[Rocky Jordan]

Hey, just had a talk with Triflers. He wants me for a partner.

[Duke]

Huh? Trifler's teaming up with you?

[Rocky Jordan]

Yeah, we're gonna talk it over tomorrow noon in my office. And if he's mixed up in the deal I think he is, he's gonna be mighty useful. Duke, he's my pigeon.

[Duke]

Anything you can tell me about?

[Rocky Jordan]

Guess I can tell you what I think. Oh, brother, I'm weary. Let's sit down over here and have a beer before we turn in, shall we?

[Duke]

Sounds good to me.

[Rocky Jordan]

Hakeem, draw two, will you?

[Ollie]

Yes, Chef.

[Duke]

You look tired enough to call it a day. Why don't you turn in?

[Rocky Jordan]

I'm going to in just a few minutes. Just want to relax a little bit before I hit the pad. You know, Duke, I think our little chum Triphilus is going to be a great help to us.

[Duke]

Yeah, well, it's about time Triphalus was helping somebody. There's one guy that makes me sorry I didn't stay home and practice my piano lessons instead of learning to fight.

[Rocky Jordan]

Triphalus is a necessary evil, Duke. If it wasn't for people like him figuring out strange ways of making a dishonest dollar, we wouldn't have much fun.

[Duke]

Yeah, maybe you're right, Rocky.

[Rocky Jordan]

Sure, I love guys like Trifless. They think they're so clever that it's like shooting fish to outsmart them.

[Duke]

What's the angle, boss? What's Trifless cooking up now?

[Rocky Jordan]

I tell you, Duke, since Turkey has declared war on Germany, there's a lot of embarrassment in certain circles. Know what I mean? Yeah.

[Duke]

This ain't a neutral country no more. And they're going to round up all the crowds, huh?

[Rocky Jordan]

Yeah, and the Japs. Now, the Japs are just plain out of luck because the Jap's a Jap. But the Heinies are in a little better shape if they can get their hands on a phony passport.

[Duke]

That what triplets is up to?

[Rocky Jordan]

Sounds like it to me. It all adds up, Duke. The dope we've got on this house where Ali's nephew works, the whole thing. Nobody expected Turkey to declare war. The Germans who can get out of Germany? The rankers in the Nazi Party. They've been shipping their money and their valuables into Turkey for months, waiting for the day when they have to change their names and their nationalities to beat the war guilt trials and the confiscation of the piles of dough they've stolen from the little people in Germany. Great little group, Duke. Fine little gang.

[Duke]

Yeah, we're going to take a shot at getting them, huh, Rocky?

[Rocky Jordan]

Can you think of any more pleasant work?

[Duke]

No. Sounds like a job that could be enjoyed.

[Rocky Jordan]

You know, Duke, these guys we're fighting here in Istanbul, they're the real heels in this war. They're the guys that stood on balconies and shouted their lungs out selling a lot of dummies. And the fact that they were members of a master race. They're the guys that gave the orders to wipe out the population of towns like in Czechoslovakia. The guys that robbed the churches and looted the towns in every country the Huns occupied.

[Duke]

Yeah. And now they're going to try to get away with it.

[Rocky Jordan]

Yeah. Now, while Hitler chews the carpet and orders the soldiers in the square headed civilians to die defending their homes and their fields, these big shots are taking a powder. They know they're whipped. They know they're slated for a blank wall and a firing squad. Some of them will get away with it. But we'll take care of a few.

[Narrator]

The next morning, Rocky Jordan awakens with a feeling that something unusual is going to happen to him this day. A premonition of something unfinished. As his mind clears, he remembers that Crypless will be at his office at noon. Cripless, the nondescript hanger on who has suddenly blossomed into a man of wealth. As he is struggling with his shirt, trying to get his broken arm through the sleeve, the door to his quarters opens and Ollie, his faithful servant, says.

[Ollie]

What is the matter, Rocky? I heard such a language.

[Rocky Jordan]

Yeah, I was just trying to get this thing.

[Ollie]

Let me help you. Rocky, you are so impatient.

[Rocky Jordan]

Great big boy like me having to be dressed.

[Ollie]

Rocky, you cannot get that arm through your sleeve with the bandages on it. It's too big.

[Rocky Jordan]

We'll slip the sleeve then.

[Ollie]

Yes, Rocky, I will.

[Rocky Jordan]

Yeah, that does it.

[Ollie]

Rocky, my nephew, the one I told you about. The one who is working as a houseboy for senior Chavez. Yeah, he'll be here in an hour. You said you wanted to talk with him.

[Rocky Jordan]

Yeah, that's right, I do.

[Ollie]

He is most anxious to talk with you. I hope it is not too early.

[Rocky Jordan]

Rocky, look, hand me that brown knitted tie there, will you?

[Ollie]

Yes, Rocky. Shall I tie it for you?

[Rocky Jordan]

Yeah. My gosh, I didn't know how much I used that left arm of mine. Hadn't any idea what a handy thing it was enough. You run across any more dope? That sounds interesting.

[Ollie]

I think so. Get your chin up, Rocky. I cannot see what I'm doing.

[Rocky Jordan]

Sorry, old man.

[Ollie]

My nephew reports to. Two more visitors have arrived at the home of Senor Chavez. They arrived at dawn.

[Rocky Jordan]

Ah, come on, come on. That tie must be all right. Let's get out of here and have a talk with your smart relation.

[Ollie]

Here's your coat. Oh, Rocky, where. Where's the sling? You must have that arm in the sling.

[Rocky Jordan]

All right, Doctor. It's over there on the dresser.

[Ollie]

Oh, yes. Here it is.

[Rocky Jordan]

Thanks. I don't know what I'd do without you, Ellie. You've been more than a mother to me.

[Ollie]

You're making fun of me, Rocky.

[Rocky Jordan]

I don't know whether I hear him or not. Hey, Rocky. For the love of Mike. Come on in, Duke. I sure get a lot of privacy around this joint. What's the matter? Am I getting fat or something? You guys figure I'm getting too much sleep?

[Duke]

I just came up to see if you're awake. Rocky. What's he doing here?

[Ollie]

Duke? I came to tell Rocky that my nephew would be here soon.

[Rocky Jordan]

This joint is paved with good intentions. Ah. Well, what's the occasion, Duke?

[Duke]

Well, I've been out around already this morning. I thought maybe you'd need some help getting into your duds with that broken arm.

[Rocky Jordan]

Ollie got me dressed all right. Where you been, Duke?

[Duke]

Over to the British Embassy. Talking to Major Pettigrew.

[Rocky Jordan]

Yeah? What did he have to say?

[Duke]

Well, I just sort of asked him what was going on. Now that there's a war on, the.

[Ollie]

People of Turkey are glad that we have finally declared war on the Axis. We have a fine army, one of the finest in the world.

[Rocky Jordan]

I don't think the Turkey's planning on taking any very active part in the war. What did Pettigrew think, Duke?

[Duke]

He thinks the same as you.

[Rocky Jordan]

Hey, Ollie, how about running downstairs and having the kitchen send up a little breakfast? Yes. You had breakfast, Duke?

[Duke]

Yeah, I had one early, but I'm ready for another one.

[Ollie]

I had mine. Shall I have two breakfasts sent up, Rocky?

[Rocky Jordan]

Yeah, that's right. Bacon and eggs, over easy and whatever else they have, but quick.

[Ollie]

Right away, Rocky. As soon as I get that done, I shall go get my nephew and bring him here.

[Rocky Jordan]

Okay, Ollie. See you later.

[Duke]

Reason I came back, boss. Pettigrew wants to see you.

[Rocky Jordan]

He does? What about?

[Duke]

Something's cooking. Something that he thinks you can handle better than his outfit.

[Rocky Jordan]

Did he give you any. Any hints as to Just what?

[Duke]

Well, I tell you, Rocky, while I was talking to him, I just casually mentioned the fact that you were pretty sure that there were a lot of crowds here in Istanbul passing his neutrals.

[Rocky Jordan]

Yeah, maybe you talked too much.

[Duke]

I didn't tell him anything. I was just seeing if I could get him to talk enough to do us some good.

[Rocky Jordan]

What'd he say?

[Duke]

Well, he thinks you're right. In fact, he knows you're right. He wants to work with you.

[Rocky Jordan]

That's just fine. What do I want to work with him for? What do we need him for?

[Duke]

Well, don't jump down my throat. I didn't crack anything to him. All I know is that he's got some dope on a few people that he's suspicious of, and he's willing to let you use the information. Go talk to him yourself.

[Rocky Jordan]

Okay, I will. And look, Duke, I'll do the thinking for this outfit. Don't be getting 9ft 5 when you're 5ft 9. I'll make the contacts and the decisions.

[Duke]

Okay? Okay. So I got out of line. I'll get back in.

[Rocky Jordan]

That's good. Less Major Pettigrew or any other authority of any country knows about what we're doing the next few weeks, the better off we're gonna be.

[Duke]

Okay, Nobody's hurt.

[Rocky Jordan]

Come in.

[Ollie]

Marky. When I went downstairs, my nephew was there waiting for me.

[Rocky Jordan]

Yeah?

[Ollie]

Senior Chavez had sent him to town on an errand and he came by here. Can you see him now?

[Rocky Jordan]

Yeah, I suppose so.

[Ollie]

He. He is very excited, Rocky. He says that he has news of the utmost importance for you.

[Narrator]

These are exciting days in Istanbul and at the Cafe Tambourine with Turkey. In the war against the Axis nations, many things are happening and Rocky Jordan is going to be interested in an exciting new venture. Don't miss tomorrow's dramatic episode of A Man Named Jordan. A Man Named Jordan is written and directed by Ray Buffam and is presented every day, Monday through Friday at the same time. This is cbs, the Columbia Broadcasting System.

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