Adventures of PC49 1948-08-06 The Case of the Beginners Luck

Summary

Adventures of PC49: The Case of the Beginner's Luck
Episode Release Date: March 14, 2025
Original Air Date: August 6, 1948
Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio

---

Introduction

In this gripping episode of "Adventures of PC49," listeners are transported back to the Golden Age of Radio, immersing themselves in a tale of suspense, deception, and undercover police work. Hosted by Harold's Old Time Radio, the episode titled "The Case of the Beginner's Luck" showcases the resourcefulness and determination of PC49 as he navigates the treacherous world of illegal gambling operations.

Characters Introduced

• Archie Barclay (PC49): A diligent and financially struggling police constable determined to dismantle criminal activities.
• Joan Carr: Archie's resourceful partner, adept at strategizing and uncovering criminal schemes.
• Mr. Costello: Owner of the popular nightclub and implicated in running an illegal gambling racket.
• Joker: A shrewd associate involved in organizing gambling operations.
• Inspector Wilson: Archie's superior, providing guidance and support from the precinct.

Setting

The episode unfolds primarily in Costello's nightclub, a bustling establishment in Jermyn Street, known for its excellent music, food, and vibrant atmosphere. The storyline also shifts to locations like Villa Rouge in Latchford Row, NW8, and Curfew House on Arcadia Avenue, Primrose Hill, highlighting the varied locales of London's underbelly in the late 1940s.

Plot Overview

Archie Barclay and Joan Carr frequent Costello's nightclub multiple nights a week, hoping to uncover and dismantle the illegal gambling operations rumored to be run by Mr. Costello. Financial strain plagues Archie, who admits, "We just can't afford to go on like this" (00:15), emphasizing his vulnerability and the stakes involved.

Joan remains optimistic, asserting that breaking Costello's racket could secure a grant from Inspector Wilson, alleviating their financial woes. Despite Archie's reservations about their success, Joan encourages him with wit and determination, encouraging him to persevere.

Their attempts to engage in gambling at the nightclub reveal Costello's well-organized operations. Joan cleverly manipulates the game, saying, "Money doesn't mean a thing to you" (00:37), while Archie tries his luck, only to face mounting losses. The tension escalates as Costello cautions them about the reputation and legality of their gambling activities, prompting Archie to consider alternative plans.

Desperate to find a solution, Archie contacts Inspector Wilson, identifying Costello as a "thief" and informing him about the upcoming large gambling party at Villa Rouge (03:08). Inspector Wilson validates the information and directs Archie to monitor the event closely.

The narrative peaks as Joan and Archie attend the Villa Rouge party, where the true extent of Costello's operations becomes evident. Joker enters the scene, revealing that Archie's gambling strategy has unintentionally disrupted their scheme by winning excessively, leading to significant financial losses for Costello.

Inspector Wilson steps in, sending reinforcements to raid the establishment. However, Joker's attempt to cover up the operation by moving the game to Curfew House introduces another layer of complexity. Joan seizes the opportunity, informing Inspector Wilson about the new location (07:00), ensuring that the authorities can intercept the criminals.

As the episode concludes, tension mounts with characters like Charlie and Duffy making appearances, hinting at further confrontations and the eventual resolution of the case. The intricate dance between law enforcement and criminal masterminds showcases PC49's unwavering commitment to justice.

Key Events and Notable Quotes

1. Financial Strain and Determination:

   • Archie Barclay: "We just can't afford to go on like this" (00:15)
     Illustrates Archie's desperation and the high stakes of their mission.

2. Joan's Encouragement:

   • Joan Carr: "Faint heart? Come on, brush your moustache up at the ends, my sweet." (00:38)
     Shows Joan's role in uplifting Archie's spirits amid challenges.

3. Confrontation with Costello:

   • Mr. Costello: "My dear young lady, think of my reputation. You shouldn't pass money over the table." (01:38)
     Reveals Costello's concern about legality and image.

4. Archie's Call to Inspector Wilson:

   • Archie Barclay: "Hello? Hello, is that Inspector Wilson? This is PC 49, sir." (03:08)
     Marks a pivotal moment where Archie seeks official support to tackle the gambling ring.

5. Joker's Revelation:

   • Joker: "He ran his fingers along under the table and snapped the wire." (09:27)
     Unveils Joker's attempt to sabotage Archie's winnings, deepening the conflict.

6. Inspector Wilson's Intervention:

   • Inspector Wilson: "Your division? Yes, sir. Joker Marx has just given me the address." (03:08)
     Highlights the collaboration between Archie and his superiors to resolve the case.

7. Final Confrontation:

   • Joan Carr: "We dare risk it. Yet that man Duff is still watching." (07:04)
     Builds suspense as characters brace for imminent action against the criminals.

Conclusion

"The Case of the Beginner's Luck" masterfully intertwines elements of suspense, strategy, and character development, showcasing PC49's relentless pursuit of justice. Through clever dialogue and intricate plot twists, listeners are kept on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating the resolution of this enthralling case. Joan Carr's ingenuity complements Archie's steadfastness, exemplifying the dynamic duo's effectiveness in combating crime. This episode not only entertains but also pays homage to the rich storytelling tradition of the Golden Age of Radio.

---

Transcript Excerpts for Reference:

• Joan Carr on Costello's Nightclub:
  "[00:08] Joan Carr: Costello certainly knows how to run a nightclub. No wonder this place is popular. The music's just right, the food's excellent."

• Archie's Financial Dilemma:
  "[00:15] Archie Barclay: ...this one's creating a major financial crisis in my life."

• Joan Encouraging Archie:
  "[00:38] Joan Carr: Faint heart? Come on, brush your moustache up at the ends, my sweet."

• Archie's Strategic Call:
  "[03:08] Archie Barclay: Hello? Hello, is that Inspector Wilson? This is PC 49, sir."

• Joker's Sabotage:
  "[09:27] Joker: He ran his fingers along under the table and snapped the wire."

• Inspector Wilson's Guidance:
  "[07:00] Archie Barclay: Don't rub it in. If only we could get the phone and tell him to raid this place instead."

These excerpts encapsulate the episode's tension and the characters' motivations, driving the narrative towards its climactic conclusion.

Transcript

[Joan Carr]

Costello certainly knows how to run a nightclub. No wonder this place is popular. The music's just right, the food's excellent.

[Archie Barclay]

And the charges make me wonder if I'm eligible for martial aid. Now look here, Joan, this is the fourth night we've been here in a week. Much as I respect your hunches, this one's creating a major financial crisis in my life. Don't forget I'm just a plain copper, not a 22 Garrett West End playboy. We just can't afford to go on like this.

[Joan Carr]

If we can break up Costello's racket, Inspector Wilson will get you a grant. That'll fill your money box right up again.

[Archie Barclay]

Maybe. What if it doesn't come off?

[Joan Carr]

Faint heart? Come on, brush your moustache up at the ends, my sweet.

[Archie Barclay]

It's true, things are my spirits.

[Joan Carr]

Here comes Costello again. Now give me those dice. And remember, you're a little bit under the weather and I'm gold digging you for all I'm worth. Don't forget, money doesn't mean a thing to you.

[Archie Barclay]

Uh, here goes my superannuation.

[Joan Carr]

Look out now. Come on, darling, it's ten pounds you owe me. I'll roll you double or quits.

[Archie Barclay]

Let's raise the stakes, baby. I tell you what, I'll give you ten fivers to a little kiss. I'll beat you in one straight.

[Joan Carr]

Throw taken. Sweetheart, you throw first.

[Archie Barclay]

Come on now, you dice. Give daddy a round dozen.

[Joan Carr]

A three and a two, five to be. Hand those birds over to an expert, honey. There you are. 6 and 3 and 9. Pay off good looking fast and break the law. What's that? Oh, you. Mr. Costello. Now don't bring me bad luck. I'm winning.

[Mr. Costello]

My dear young lady, think of my reputation. You shouldn't pass money over the table.

[Archie Barclay]

What a country.

[Joker]

A.

[Archie Barclay]

A man can't have a penny ha'porth of flutter without breaking the law.

[Mr. Costello]

Well, not here anyhow. Sir, if you want to gamble, surely you can arrange a game among your friends. You must have plenty.

[Archie Barclay]

Yeah, but they're all in South America. I've just come home after five years there. Yes, I came to the wrong country. There's nothing to spend your money on here.

[Joan Carr]

There's always me, darling.

[Archie Barclay]

Oh, sure, sure, sure. Let's roll them again for the same stake you're on.

[Mr. Costello]

Yes, but please keep the money out of sight.

[Archie Barclay]

You.

[Mr. Costello]

You wouldn't like to get me into trouble, would you?

[Archie Barclay]

Now wouldn't I? You rat. That's what you think.

[Joan Carr]

Take it easy, Archie. I think he swallowed the bait. This Time.

[Archie Barclay]

About time too. We spent nearly £20 in four nights. Joan, there's only about £12 left of the 30 I drew out.

[Joan Carr]

It looks a lot more anyhow rolled around that tissue paper. Keep it rolled up. And when you get the bill, just peel off the outside note as if there was no end to it.

[Archie Barclay]

We're very close to the end.

[Joan Carr]

Cheer up, Rockefeller. Look, what did I tell you? Costello's bought it. Here comes Joker.

[Joker]

Oh, excuse me, sir, but Mr. Costello was telling me you'd like to chance your luck.

[Archie Barclay]

It all depends on the game. Why?

[Joker]

Well, I thought you might be interested in a game that a few of my friends are running over in Marylebone tonight. It's a quiet little party. You and your young lady would be welcome, I'm sure.

[Archie Barclay]

Hello? Hello, is that Inspector Wilson? This is PC 49, sir. 49, sir. F for 40. N for the. That's right, sir. Yes, sir. I know it's late, sir. 12:25am Exactly. Yes, sir, I. Get on with it at once, sir. I'm phoning from the Bar Sinister in Jermyn Street. Ace Costello's place. Costello, sir, I sent it out. Costello, sir. C for chump, O for outlaw, S for stinker. T for thief. E for. Yes, sir. Costello. I've discovered he's running a big gambling party tonight. But I do know, sir, I've been invited. Yes, truly I have, sir. But, sir, it's in our division. Beg your pardon, sir. Your division? Yes, sir. Joker. Marx has just given me the address. Yes, sir. Ready, sir. The party's taking place at the Villa rouge, Latchford Row, NW8. That's right, sir.

[Mr. Costello]

Villa Rouge.

[Archie Barclay]

Yes, I will, sir. I'll stick to them like glue till you arrive. Happy hunting, sir. Yes, sir. Very good, sir. Goodbye, sir.

[Joan Carr]

What did he say?

[Archie Barclay]

You're too young to hear, but I gather that if it doesn't come off, he'll scalp me. Among other things. He was just going home to bed.

[Joan Carr]

Come on, then. Let's get out of this place. We'll take a taxi over to the Villar Rouge at once. I've got a feeling this is our lucky night.

[Archie Barclay]

Lucky? Do you know how much that bill was downstairs? Seven quid.

[Joan Carr]

Never mind, we've got five. Lets.

[Joker]

Joan. Shh.

[Joan Carr]

Easy now. Here comes our old friend Joker. Put the act on, Archie.

[Joker]

Ready to go, Mr. Barclay?

[Mr. Costello]

Willoughby.

[Archie Barclay]

Just on the way to get a taxi, pal.

[Joker]

Oh, no need for a taxi. I'll run you over. The car's right outside. This way. You're gonna like these people. They're all good. Sports. Win, lose or break even, it's all the same to them. There's a game on somewhere almost every night, you know, if you're interested.

[Joan Carr]

We certainly aren't we, darling?

[Archie Barclay]

I say, you've taken the wrong turning. Merrily burns over the other side of the park.

[Joker]

Oh, that's all right. There's been a last minute change in plans. We've always got an alternative pitch ready in case anything goes wrong.

[Archie Barclay]

And has anything gone wrong?

[Joker]

Oh, nothing serious. The policeman on duty in Latchford Row saw our van arrive. You know, the van with all our gear. He was a nosy sort of customer and started asking awkward questions. So we decided to play at another place in Arcadia Road. That's just over behind Primrose Hill.

[Archie Barclay]

But you said the Villa Rouge.

[Joker]

Ah, don't you worry, Mr. Barclay Willoughby. Everything will be in order by the time we arrive. It's wonderful what.

[Archie Barclay]

You can shut up, Archie.

[Joan Carr]

You were saying?

[Joker]

I was just saying it's wonderful what you can do with a little bit of organization.

[Joan Carr]

What's he babbling about? Archie? That man is a roulette man.

[Archie Barclay]

Well, that's a croupier. He's telling them to place their bets.

[Joker]

Not playing yet, Mr. Barkley, will it?

[Archie Barclay]

Be just looking round till I get my bearings, pal, see? I'll play later, see? Say, what if the police raid this place?

[Joker]

They won't, sir. Still, we've got even that organized. A system of warning bells and two tough boys on the door to delay them. And even if they go to the front and back doors, we can still nip out through the passage to a side door leading into Chantry Lane.

[Joan Carr]

Chantry Lane? That's at the side of the house, is it?

[Joker]

That's right, miss.

[Archie Barclay]

You've certainly got it organized.

[Joker]

Oh, it doesn't take much brains to outwit the police. They're all pretty dumb.

[Joan Carr]

You took the words right out of my mouth.

[Joker]

By the way, don't go thirsty. There's plenty of champagne over at the Buffy. All on the house. And if you want to buy chips, see me. The blues are 10 pounds each, the reds are 50 and the yellows 100. Well, see you later.

[Archie Barclay]

Tenors, fifties and hundreds. And here's me with exactly five quid.

[Joan Carr]

And Inspector Wilson waiting outside the villa room.

[Archie Barclay]

Don't rub it in. If only we could get the phone and tell him to raid this place instead.

[Joan Carr]

We dare risk it. Yet that man Duff is still watching.

[Archie Barclay]

Us, telling me ever since we arrived here.

[Joan Carr]

I don't think you suspect anything. It's just because we're strangers and they've got to be careful.

[Archie Barclay]

We can't do anything on our own. There's too many of them. Oh, Lord Wilson will kill me for this.

[Joan Carr]

Don't give up, chairman. Here, give me that last lone fiber of yours. Of course, I put five pounds in my bag just in case.

[Archie Barclay]

You're not going to gamble our last ten pounds away.

[Joan Carr]

We can't stay on here without playing. Joker will smell a rat. And I have a feeling fortune's going to give us a nice big smile. Come on, give to little Joanie.

[Archie Barclay]

Joan, do you realize this ridiculous business has cost me nearly £30 in four days?

[Joan Carr]

Archie.

[Archie Barclay]

Oh, all right. Here you are. In for a penny, in for a £30.

[Joan Carr]

Shall be long. Darling, I'm going to find Joker and buy you one dear little blue chip to play with.

[Joker]

Looks like a washout. Inspector, we've been here over an hour. We've got men at every entrance and.

[Inspector Wilson]

No sign of anything doing Villa Rouge. He says his face will be rouge before I've done with him. Send the vans and the men back to headquarters. Right. I'll drop you back and then get home for some sleep. I'm fagged out.

[Joker]

Okay, sir. There's something fishy about this, though. We don't generally get a wrong steer from 49.

[Inspector Wilson]

49, sir. 4 and 9 total 13. A nice unlucky number for me.

[Archie Barclay]

Number 13. That old gentleman wins again. I say, do I really?

[Joan Carr]

That's the fifth time.

[Archie Barclay]

This looks like a coup.

[Joker]

All right, let's stay and watch.

[Archie Barclay]

Are you leaving your stakes on?

[Joan Carr]

Take it out, Archie.

[Archie Barclay]

Quiet, John. Yes, Let it ride again. 13 is my lucky number.

[Joan Carr]

Archie, there's a phone in the powder room. I'm going to take a chance and phone your station while they're all watching you.

[Archie Barclay]

Hey, man, what you got to do? Watch.

[Joan Carr]

Keep winning, darling.

[Archie Barclay]

Miss you imidam fait bourgeois. All right, Bass, open up. That's a boss's knock. Okay. Hello, Ace.

[Mr. Costello]

Hi there, Duffy. Where's Joker? Ah, there you are.

[Joker]

Oh, thank God you've come. Ace.

[Mr. Costello]

What's wrong?

[Joker]

Wrong? That dopey looking mug you sold me tonight's upstairs and he's taking us for the biggest ride in gambling history.

[Mr. Costello]

What do you mean?

[Joker]

He lifted 900 quids with the chips in that shammy game. And then what? Wait, wait, there's more to it. He's just taken five natural 13s of roulette. I had to limit the game or he'd have broken the bank. As it is, he's won about 90% of the chips in the house. We owe him a fortune. Didn't you fix the wheel? Yeah, it was fixed, all right. But that mug's not such a mug as you'd think. He ran his fingers along under the table and snapped the wire.

[Mr. Costello]

How do you know?

[Joker]

I dropped a chip and crawled under to see what was going on.

[Mr. Costello]

That wise guy, eh? Okay, we'll fix him. When he wants to cash in, send him up to my office. I'll pay him off in person.

[Inspector Wilson]

No, I won't. Come in. Right. I've been on the go since 7 this morning.

[Joker]

Okay, sir.

[Inspector Wilson]

And leave instructions at the deck that I want to see PC 49 as soon as he comes on tomorrow.

[Joker]

I will, sir. Excuse me, sarge. Desk sergeant sent me out with this message for the ddi.

[Inspector Wilson]

What is it, Constable?

[Joker]

A Miss Joan Carr rang up five minutes ago to say there's nothing doing at the Villaroos. But the game is now in progress at Curfew House. Arcadia Avenue, Primrose Hill.

[Inspector Wilson]

Oh, my Lord. Come on, Wright, get going again.

[Joker]

Yes, sir.

[Joan Carr]

Would you open the door, Duffy, please?

[Archie Barclay]

What? You ain't going home without your boyfriend, are you, miss?

[Joan Carr]

Oh, he's forgotten. He's too busy gambling. Anyway, I've got a headache. Come on, open up.

[Archie Barclay]

Well, I don't know as I ought.

[Joan Carr]

What is this, a jail?

[Archie Barclay]

That's Charlie's knock.

[Joker]

See what he wants, Basher. What do you want, Charlie? I'm sick and tired of sitting out in that drive in that there van. I want a drink.

[Joan Carr]

Excuse me, gentlemen.

[Joker]

Hey, wait a minute, you. Oh, let her go.

[Joan Carr]

Good night. Gosh, it's dark. Where have they parked it? Ah, now, I've never driven a van before. Five gears. Oh, my Sunday hat. It.