Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: Ellery Queen 43-01-09 (107) The Singing Rat
Release Date: March 6, 2025
Introduction
In this thrilling episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, listeners are transported back to the Golden Age of Radio with Ellery Queen, the renowned gentleman detective. Hosted by Ellery Queen himself, this episode titled The Singing Rat weaves a captivating narrative filled with suspense, clever investigations, and engaging guest interactions. The story unfolds with Ellery Queen and his companion, Nikki Porter, delving into a complex web of deceit and betrayal centered around a mysterious figure known as Musso the Moose.
Setting the Scene
[00:54] Ellery Queen:
“Tonight's story concerns the adventures Nikki and I had when a stool pigeon gave us incriminating evidence against Musso the Moose. I call it the Adventure of the Singing Rat.”
The episode kicks off with Ellery introducing the central mystery involving Musso the Moose, a notorious racketeer. Accompanied by his trusty sidekick, Nikki Porter, Ellery sets the stage for a night of unraveling the truth behind Musso's criminal activities.
Introduction of Key Characters
[00:01] Ernest Chapel (Announcer):
“In the studio tonight, we have as our guest Ms. Anne Corio, glamorous screen and stage star, and Mr. Alfred D. McElvey, prominent Eastern manufacturer.”
Guests Anne Corio, a glamorous stage and screen star, and Alfred D. McElvey, a prominent Eastern manufacturer and amateur radio detective, join Ellery Queen to participate in solving the mystery before the official resolution is revealed.
The Mystery Unfolds
[01:17] Inspector Queen:
“Inspector, look who's paying a visit to headquarters. The Singing Rat. So Minzy. Always glad to see the rat.”
Inspector Queen introduces Sir Rodent, the so-called Singing Rat, who claims to have vital information about Musso the Moose's whereabouts. However, tensions rise as Ellery observes inconsistencies in the Inspector's handling of the situation.
Clues and Conflicts
[09:29] Inspector Queen:
“Greatest choir in Epsom.”
[09:47] Nikki Porter:
“Well, where Ellery put that piece of…”
[09:53] Inspector Queen:
“Nicky, this document, Musso's handwriting is a payroll report. What quote? Paid the judge, Eustace F. Lampson, $19,000 for appointing Phil Boyne as receiver in bankruptcy.”
The investigation intensifies as Inspector Queen discovers a hollow cigarette filled with incriminating evidence— a payroll report linking Judge Lampson to Musso's corruption scheme. This revelation points to a deeper conspiracy involving multiple high-profile individuals.
Interlude: Bromo Seltzer Advertisement
[04:43] Ernest Chapel:
“Friends, you like to save money, don't you? And you like fast relief from a common sick headache...”
As was typical in Golden Age radio shows, the episode includes a promotional segment for Bromo Seltzer, seamlessly integrated into the narrative without disrupting the flow of the mystery.
Rising Tension and Revelation
[11:23] Nikki Porter:
“Ellery, what's the matter with the singing rat?”
[11:25] Ellery Queen:
“He's backing away from the window.”
[12:00] Ellery Queen:
“Here's the bullet hole in his coat. But I don't see. Can't find the wound. Licking. Not a sign of blood.”
The plot thickens when Musso the Moose is found dead in Central Park, allegedly from a rifle shot meant for Inspector Queen. Intriguingly, evidence suggests that the bullet passed through the victim without leaving a significant wound, hinting at foul play and manipulation of evidence.
Guest Participation: Armchair Detectives
[20:32] Nikki Porter:
“Well, our first guest tonight is Anne Corio, glamorous stage and screen star...”
[21:02] Ellery Queen:
“Ms. Corio, who is the criminal?”
[21:07] Nikki Porter:
“Well, I. Rather difficult, but I think the rat stole the cigarette...”
[21:35] Ellery Queen:
“Thank you, Ms. Corio.”
[21:40] Inspector Queen:
“Well, I've missed some easier guesses than this...”
Guests Anne Corio and Alfred D. McElvey engage in solving the mystery as "armchair detectives," offering their theories on who the true culprit might be. Their interactions provide an interactive element, inviting listeners to think along and participate in the deduction process.
Climactic Conclusion
[23:16] Nikki Porter:
“That lifting little appraiser, Ernie?”
[24:01] Inspector Queen:
“That's right, he did.”
[24:03] Ellery Queen:
“The judge, the rat, Counselor Wicker, Ernie, even you, dad and Nicky were all so shaken...”
[24:53] Inspector Queen:
“I see it now. Sir.”
[24:54] Ellery Queen:
“Yes, dad. We know one of Musso's specially monogrammed cigarettes was substituted...”
[19:58] Inspector Queen:
“Looks like a tough one to me, Ellie.”
Through meticulous analysis and keen observation, Ellery Queen deciphers the critical clue: Phil Boyne’s atypical behavior regarding smoking. Despite carrying a cigarette case, Boyne refuses a cigarette during the crisis, indicating he doesn't smoke and therefore used the cigarette case for nefarious purposes— namely, hiding the evidence.
[23:47] Inspector Queen:
“Like an old lady got his start.”
[24:34] Nikki Porter:
“But how do you know? Good Boyne.”
By connecting the dots, Ellery concludes that Phil Boyne, the politician involved in the bankruptcy racket, orchestrated the murder to eliminate Musso and secure his hold on the corrupt scheme. His behavior and possession of the non-smoking cigarette case served as the final pieces of evidence needed to unmask him as the antagonist.
Final Resolution and Rewards
[21:02] Ellery Queen:
“Ms. Corio, who is the criminal?”
[24:53] Inspector Queen:
“I see it now. Sir.”
[25:38] Ellery Queen:
“I want to thank Ms. Ann Corio and Mr. Alfred McKelvey for appearing as guest armchair detectives this evening.”
Ellery successfully reveals Phil Boyne as the mastermind behind the corruption and the murder of Musso the Moose. The episode concludes with heartfelt thanks to the guests, who are rewarded for their participation with gifts from Bromo Seltzer and copies of Ellery Queen's latest works, seamlessly tying back to the episode's sponsor.
Notable Quotes
-
Ellery Queen:
“I call it the Adventure of the Singing Rat.” [00:54] -
Inspector Queen:
“The Singing Rat. So Minzy. Always glad to see the rat.” [01:17] -
Ellery Queen:
“Someday, Nicky, you’ll appreciate how much Detective work relies on these small details.” [12:25] -
Nikki Porter:
“But how do you know? Good Boyne.” [23:28]
Conclusion
The Singing Rat delivers a compelling narrative filled with intrigue, masterful detective work, and interactive guest participation. Ellery Queen's sharp intellect and attention to detail shine as he unravels a complex conspiracy, ultimately bringing justice to Musso the Moose. The episode not only entertains but also invites listeners to engage in the mystery-solving process, embodying the essence of Golden Age radio storytelling.
Stay tuned for next week's episode, "The Adventure of Mr. Short and Mr. Long," where Ellery Queen tackles a baffling disappearance reminiscent of Sherlock Holmes' most perplexing cases.