Podcast Summary: Cape Cod Radio Mystery Theater – "A Test for Murder"

Introduction

In the inaugural episode of "Cape Cod Radio Mystery Theater," titled "A Test for Murder," listeners are transported to the foggy shores of Provincetown, Cape Cod. This original mystery thriller, released on March 6, 2025, masterfully captures the essence of the Golden Age of Radio, blending suspense, character-driven dialogue, and intricate plot twists reminiscent of classic radio dramas.

Plot Overview

The story unfolds during the opening night of an art exhibit at the Alice B. Steiner Memorial Art Museum. The evening takes a dark turn when Louis Laroche, a renowned art critic from New York, is found murdered upstairs in the museum. As panic ensues, Captain Waverly Underhill, a retired police captain with unconventional investigative methods, steps in to take control of the situation, much to the chagrin of Dr. Alexander Schofield, a skeptical physician and Underhill's friend.

Key Characters

• Captain Waverly Underhill: The protagonist, a retired police captain known for his unorthodox methods.
• Dr. Alexander Schofield: A physician and friend of Underhill, offering a contrasting analytical perspective.
• Trudy Landsberger: A professional model present at the art exhibit.
• Celia Hanshofer: Chairperson for the Arts Council at the museum.
• Officer Ray Greenwood: A temporary police officer handling his first murder case.
• Alfred Turk Jr.: The primary suspect identified by Underhill.

Captain Underhill Takes Charge

Shortly after the discovery of the body, Underhill asserts his authority, deciding to conduct a preliminary investigation before official police can take over. He confidently declares to Dr. Schofield:

Captain Waverly Underhill [05:39]: "Hello, Scofield. I was looking forward to bumping into you tonight."

Underhill's immediate assumption of control sets the stage for his unique investigative approach.

The Preliminary Inquiry

Underhill devises a "pop quiz" for the museum's guests, designed to identify the murderer by cross-referencing those who have both come upstairs and used the restroom—actions he believes only the murderer would admit to. He instructs Officer Greenwood to organize the guests and distribute questionnaires, emphasizing:

Captain Waverly Underhill [20:38]: "I intend to use this opportunity to expose him."

Dr. Schofield remains unconvinced, questioning the efficacy of Underhill's methods:

Dr. Alexander Schofield [27:09]: "I don't see what good they're going to do you."

Identifying the Suspect

Through his questioning, Underhill narrows down the suspect to Alfred Turk Jr., a hobbyist artist with a contentious relationship with Laroche. Underhill points out discrepancies in Turk's questionnaire responses, identifying him as the probable murderer. He asserts:

Captain Waverly Underhill [29:06]: "Ergo, the killer is someone who admits coming up here and also admits stopping in to use the bathroom."

This psychological ploy relies on the assumption that the murderer lacks the composure to fabricate his actions under scrutiny.

The Confrontation and Resolution

As the investigation progresses, Officer Greenwood becomes increasingly uneasy with Underhill's methods, expressing:

Officer Ray Greenwood [38:08]: "I still don't understand why you're telling me."

Despite Greenwood's reservations, Underhill continues to press his narrative, emphasizing the accumulation of circumstantial evidence:

Captain Waverly Underhill [35:17]: "There will be no turning back, not even if he wants to."

Eventually, when the official homicide squad arrives from Hyannis, they discover both the corpse and Alfred Turk Jr., confirming Underhill's suspicions. The press, however, downplays Underhill's role, focusing instead on Officer Greenwood's immediate response.

Aftermath and Reflection

In the aftermath, Dr. Schofield reflects on Underhill's unconventional victory:

Dr. Alexander Schofield [31:36]: "Then you're saying this is one of those cases where the actual murderer is known. But still he goes free?"

The episode concludes with Underhill maintaining his public persona, mingling with guests and resuming his enjoyment of the art exhibit despite the night's grim events. A final interaction hints at Underhill's charm and underlying complexity:

Captain Waverly Underhill [44:02]: "SA."

Notable Quotes

• Captain Waverly Underhill [00:30]: "A foggy night on old Cape Cod. A perfect night for a mystery."
• Dr. Alexander Schofield [01:06]: "There are 70 or 80 people down there. How do you propose to find a killer out of so many suspects?"
• Dr. Alexander Schofield [10:03]: "Well, Waverly, it appears you found someone who shares your interest in art."
• Captain Waverly Underhill [27:56]: "We're trying to find the intersection of two distinct sets..."
• Officer Ray Greenwood [38:11]: "Then I think I'd like to go back downstairs. Thank you."

Conclusion

"A Test for Murder" serves as a compelling introduction to the "Cape Cod Radio Mystery Theater," showcasing a blend of classic radio storytelling with modern investigative intrigue. Captain Underhill's blend of charm, psychological insight, and unorthodox methods offer a fresh take on the detective archetype, setting the tone for future episodes that promise to keep listeners on the edge of their seats.