Ellery Queen’s Minute Mysteries 016: "Time Bomb"

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Date: January 26, 2026
Host/Narrator: Ellery Queen (performed by Harolds Old Time Radio)
Duration: Approx. 1 minute

Episode Overview

This episode features a classic mystery segment from the “Ellery Queen’s Minute Mysteries” series, titled “Time Bomb.” The narrative explores a high-stakes intellectual challenge involving two competing heirs and a clever twist based on geography and time zones. The episode focuses on how careful thinking—not just quick action—can win the day.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Will & The Competition

• An eccentric millionaire in Chicago sets up a dramatic condition in his will:
  • His fabulous diamond will be awarded to the first of two heirs who can sign their claim before a US magistrate on June 1, exactly one year after his death.

2. The Dilemma

• One of the heirs seeks advice from Ellery Queen, concerned about how to outmaneuver the other heir.
• The challenge is about being the first to make the legal claim, but since both heirs are in the United States—which spans multiple time zones—some cleverness could provide an edge.

3. Ellery Queen’s Advice (The "Time Bomb")

• Ellery suggests a creative solution:

  “Find an island in the Pacific,” he replies. (00:33)

• The explanation comes swiftly and cleverly:

  “In the case of the Time Bomb, the young heir could beat his rival by going to the place where June 1st would come first on US soil. That would be the island of Guam. A long way to go for a diamond, but worth it.” (00:46)

• The strategic insight is that by reaching the earliest US time zone (Guam), the heir could legally be the very first to sign the claim on June 1, well before it even becomes June 1 in the continental USA.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Ellery’s witty advice:

  “Find an island in the Pacific.” – Ellery Queen (00:33)

• The big reveal (solution):

  “The young heir could beat his rival by going to the place where June 1st would come first on US soil. That would be the island of Guam.” – Ellery Queen (00:46)

Important Segment Timestamps

• [00:02] – Introduction and the setup of the millionaire’s will and its competitive clause
• [00:33] – Ellery’s succinct advice: “Find an island in the Pacific.”
• [00:46] – Solution revealed: The advantage of being in Guam
• [00:52] – Episode wrap-up and invitation to listen again

Tone & Style

• The episode’s narrative is delivered in Ellery Queen’s hallmark quick, cerebral style—direct, wry, and with a clever twist at the end.
• The episode preserves that sense of “armchair sleuthing” that characterizes Golden Age radio mysteries, inviting listeners to puzzle out the answer alongside the detective.

Summary

“Time Bomb” is a short, sharp mystery showcasing Ellery Queen’s logical prowess and the kind of creative problem-solving that defines the classic detective genre. The episode reminds listeners that, sometimes, winning isn’t about being the fastest but about being the smartest—and knowing your geography! Those who appreciate clever puzzles and vintage radio will enjoy this mini whodunit.