Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio

Episode: Blackstone 48-10-03 (01) - The Ghost That Trapped a Killer

Date: October 7, 2025
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio

Episode Overview

This episode features a classic radio drama from the Golden Age: The Magic Detective, starring Blackstone, the world’s greatest magician. The story, "The Ghost That Trapped a Killer," weaves detective mystery with magical showmanship, as Blackstone is called upon to solve a murder that baffles the local sheriff. The episode also includes an interactive segment where Blackstone explains a magic trick listeners can try at home, blending entertainment with a spirited touch of nostalgia.

Key Discussion Points & Story Breakdown

1. Introduction to Blackstone and the Ghost Cabinet (01:22 - 02:00)

• The hosts introduce Blackstone, his magical studio, and his assistant, Rhoda Brent.
• A "ghost cabinet" and unusual bottles become the center of curiosity.
• Quote:

  C (Blackstone): "Would you like me to manufacture a ghost right now?" (01:50)

2. A Murder Case for Blackstone (02:00 - 04:05)

• Sheriff Yates approaches Blackstone for help, explaining they know the identity and motive of the murderer but lack proof.
• The case revolves around Hiram Saunders, who died under suspicious circumstances attributed to an overdose of medicine.
• Parker Harley, the caretaker, is the suspect due to a possible inheritance motive.
• Quote:

  B (Sheriff Yates): "Well, it's going to take a magician to crack this case." (02:29)

3. Unraveling the Motive (04:05 - 05:04)

• Discovery that Saunders had $5,000 in a cash box, which he bequeathed to Parker Harley.
• Blackstone and company race to the old Saunders house, hoping to intercept Parker.

4. Setting the Trap at the Haunted House (05:04 - 08:29)

• Eerie descriptions set the scene of Saunders’s spooky, multi-gabled house.
• Blackstone prepares a mysterious concoction, hinting at a ghostly trick.
• Parker unknowingly becomes the target of a magical trap.
• Quote:

  A (Rhoda): "Give me the shivers." (05:52)

  B (Sheriff): "Don't do that. What is it, miss?" (05:25)

5. The Ghost Appears and the Confession (07:10 - 08:47)

• Parker is confronted by a "ghost" emerging from the cabinet, created by Blackstone’s chemical trick.
• Terrified, Parker confesses to the murder as the apparition closes in.
• Quote:

  B (Parker): "No, no, no, no, no, no. Go away. Go away." (07:56)

  B (Parker): "Yes, I kill him. I killed Saunders and his ghost came back." (08:47)

6. Explanation of the Ghost Trick (09:15 - 10:01)

• Blackstone reveals that the ghostly effect was achieved by combining two simple chemicals, creating creeping smoke that unnerved Parker.
• Quote:

  C (Blackstone): "Yes, it was a simple chemical experiment. Plus the imagination of those who witnessed it." (09:15)

  C (Blackstone): "They're only as real as people imagine them to be. I manufactured the ghost from two of those bottles on the shelf." (09:22)

7. Interactive Magic Trick for Listeners (10:01 - 11:53)

• Blackstone shares a simple trick involving a nickel, a glass, a match, and a comb.
• He walks step-by-step through the setup, inviting listeners to play along at home.
• The trick uses static electricity from a comb to move a match under a glass, creating a magical effect.
• Quote:

  B: "Oh, gosh, if I could, it would be magic. You're a ghost." (10:54)

  C (Blackstone): "There's the magic you and all your friends will enjoy. Just try it and find out." (11:53)

8. Closing & Teaser for Next Episode (12:13)

• Blackstone previews the next tale, “The Reluctant Buzzsaw,” and promises more magic tricks for listeners.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments (with Timestamps)

• Blackstone's Approach:

  "I'm a magician, not a detective."
  B (Blackstone): (02:26)

• On the Power of Imagination:

  "They're only as real as people imagine them to be."
  C (Blackstone): (09:22)

• On Magic's Simplicity:

  "It's most amazing to think that a ghost could be produced so simply and so easily."
  B: (09:57)

• Listener Engagement:

  "There's the magic you and all your friends will enjoy. Just try it and find out."
  C (Blackstone): (11:53)

Timestamps for Important Segments

• Blackstone’s Introduction and the Ghost Cabinet: 01:22 – 02:00
• Murder Mystery Setup: 02:00 – 04:05
• Haunted House Arrival: 04:24 – 05:37
• Ghost Trick in Action: 07:10 – 08:20
• Murderer’s Confession: 08:20 – 08:47
• Trick Explanation: 09:15 – 09:57
• Magic Trick Instruction: 10:13 – 11:53

Conclusion

This episode of The Magic Detective exemplifies the engaging storytelling and interactive spirit of classic radio. Listeners are transported into a world where mystery is unraveled by both deductive reasoning and theatrical magic, all while being encouraged to experience a little magic at home themselves. The blend of suspense, humor, and audience participation makes this a standout trek into the joyful days of family radio entertainment.