Podcast Summary: "Address Unknown 67-xx-xx (04) The Search for Christopher Adamson"
Release Date: July 2, 2025
Introduction
"Harold's Old Time Radio" transports listeners back to the Golden Age of Radio, evoking the nostalgia of families huddling around their radios to enjoy classic programs like The Shadow, Abbott & Costello, and Dragnet. In the episode titled "Address Unknown 67-xx-xx (04) The Search for Christopher Adamson," host Harold weaves a gripping mystery centered around the mysterious disappearance of a young man named Christopher Adamson. This summary delves into the intricate details, key discussions, and fascinating twists that unfold throughout the episode.
1. The Disappearance of Christopher Adamson
Timestamp: [00:31]
The episode commences with Henry Simon, the narrator and investigator from the Missing Persons Bureau, introducing the perplexing case of Christopher Adamson's disappearance. Unlike previous cases, Chris's vanishing is marked by unique circumstances that set it apart from typical missing person scenarios.
Key Points:
- Christopher Adamson, a 22-year-old recent army veteran, has been missing for two days.
- His father, George Adamson, a respected London broker, reported Chris missing after a minor quarrel.
- The case presents an unusual blend of personal family conflict and potential criminal motives.
Notable Quote:
"Sometimes before in this series of programs, I've talked about the motives for disappearances. It never ceases to surprise me that not only are two cases never the same, but there are even so many basically different reasons for a person not being where he or she ought to be." — Henry Simon [00:31]
2. George Adamson's Concern
Timestamp: [01:40 - 03:11]
George Adamson visits Henry Simon to report his son's disappearance. Their conversation reveals the strained relationship between father and son, though George downplays the significance of their argument.
Key Points:
- Chris is set to join his father’s business, Adamson and Phelps.
- George expresses concern over Chris’s readiness to transition from military to commercial life.
- The late Mr. Godfrey Phelps, George's partner, died in the war, adding emotional weight to the situation.
Notable Quotes:
"I'm desperately worried, Mr. Simon. The more so because when I last saw Chris, we parted. Well, not on the best of terms." — George Adamson [01:40]
"I don't think you should reproach yourself too bitterly, Mr. Adamson. Arguments occur in the best regulated of families." — Henry Simon [01:53]
3. The Investigation Unfolds
Timestamp: [04:35 - 07:11]
Henry Simon enlists the help of Agent Brad Farley to delve deeper into Chris’s disappearance. Their initial discussion hints at possible motives, including blackmail, though Simon remains skeptical.
Key Points:
- George Adamson refrains from involving the police to avoid potential scandal due to an impending knighthood.
- Farley suggests blackmail as a motive, but Simon believes it's more likely a case of familial discord.
- The duo decides to investigate further by contacting Chris’s close friend, Peter Simpson.
Notable Quotes:
"It seems so trivial in retrospect, I hardly remember. In any case, I'm quite sure it's neither important nor relevant." — George Adamson [02:01]
"I mean, from a blackmail point of view, he would [be a catch]." — Brad Farley [06:03]
4. Uncovering Connections
Timestamp: [07:52 - 12:35]
Henry Simon and Brad Farley interview Peter Simpson, Chris's friend, uncovering new leads that point towards Chris’s girlfriend, Norma O'Brien, a nightclub hostess.
Key Points:
- Peter reveals that Chris desired £10,000 for an investment opportunity, which George adamantly refused to fund.
- Norma O'Brien is identified as a significant figure who might provide a motive for Chris's disappearance.
- The investigation leads the team to the Blue Feather nightclub, Norma's workplace.
Notable Quotes:
"Norma o' Brien, smasher, nightclub hostess. You should see her." — Peter Simpson [08:31]
"She'd at least supply a motive of sorts." — Brad Farley [08:15]
5. The Kidnapping Revelation
Timestamp: [13:03 - 21:35]
George Adamson receives a chilling phone call from Chris's kidnappers, demanding £10,000 in small denomination notes and instructing him to cease the search. Simultaneously, Farley meets Norma O'Brien at the Blue Feather, leading to an unexpected twist.
Key Points:
- The kidnappers provide detailed instructions, suggesting they are closely monitoring George.
- Henry Simon advises George to follow the kidnappers' instructions while maintaining secrecy to ensure Chris's safety.
- At the Blue Feather, Brad Farley encounters Norma, who reveals a deeper connection to Chris, hinting at a premeditated scheme.
Notable Quotes:
"It says if you want to see your son again, you go to your bank first thing in the morning and get £10,000 in small denomination notes." — George Adamson [14:08]
"You know, not tonight. At least, I shouldn't think so. But how would I know?" — Norma O'Brien [16:40]
6. The Unexpected Twist and Resolution
Timestamp: [22:09 - End]
The investigation culminates in a surprising revelation: Chris Adamson orchestrated his own kidnapping to secure his inheritance and assert his independence. Despite the deception, the father-son relationship remains unbroken.
Key Points:
- Peter Simpson discloses that Chris needed the £10,000 to secure a business opportunity on Brighton Road, which George refused.
- Chris's actions were a strategic move to gain financial independence and demonstrate his resolve.
- George's understanding and acceptance of Chris's choices reinforce their familial bond.
Notable Quotes:
"The curious thing was that although Chris Adamson had in fact blackmailed his own father, the money was his. Legitimately." — Henry Simon [24:05]
"George Adamson, having received proof positive of his son's determination to carve away for himself rather than move into a ready made position, made no further attempts to withhold the necessary money." — Henry Simon [24:05]
Conclusion
"The Search for Christopher Adamson" masterfully blends suspense, familial dynamics, and unexpected twists, encapsulating the essence of classic radio dramas. Through meticulous investigation and poignant character interactions, the narrative explores themes of independence, trust, and the enduring strength of family bonds. Harold's storytelling captivates listeners, offering a rich and engaging experience that pays homage to the timeless allure of old-time radio mysteries.