Fu Manchu 39-05-12 (003) The Death List

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio – "Fu Manchu 39-05-12 (003) The Death List"

Release Date: May 27, 2025
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Duration: Approximately 15 minutes

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1. Introduction and Setting the Scene

The episode begins with an engaging narration that sets the stage for a gripping adventure in London's underbelly. Commissioned by the British government, Special Inspector Nayland Smith and his associate, Dr. James Petrie, are introduced as the protagonists tasked with bringing the nefarious Dr. Fu Manchu to justice.

Notable Quote:

• Narrator [02:36]: "Commissioned by the British government to bring to justice Dr. Fu Manchu, the arch criminal and the head of the Black Poppy Society."

2. The Dire Situation Unfolds

Inspector Weymouth and Nayland Smith arrive too late to prevent the death of British statesman Crichton Davy, whose demise unfolds through the bite of a deadly poisonous insect. This incident marks the commencement of Fu Manchu's sinister campaign aimed at eliminating key scientific and political figures.

Notable Quotes:

• Inspector Weymouth [03:15]: "Careful, Petrie. I think I've killed it. But even in death, the thing is venomous."
• Nayland Smith [04:29]: "Oh, it's a tough case, PC. But I swear to get that murderer sooner or later."

3. Fu Manchu's Malicious Plans Revealed

In a shadowy mansion on High Street, Fu Manchu asserts his authority over his henchmen, expressing frustration over their failures and outlining his plans to eliminate Inspector Smith and Dr. Petrie. His determination underscores the high stakes of the investigation.

Notable Quotes:

• Fu Manchu [04:38]: "Results, Lal, are what I demand and expect from my servants. Sing has failed me."
• Fu Manchu [05:25]: "Presently I shall think of a method whereby we may put both Nayland Smith and his friend Dr. Petrie aside."

4. The Investigation Deepens

Inspector Weymouth and Dr. Petrie are summoned to the Whopping River Police Station, where they are briefed on the mysterious deaths of Cadby and Mason. Both victims exhibit peculiar mutilations—missing fingers—that serve as cryptic clues pointing towards Fu Manchu's hand in these murders.

Notable Quotes:

• Inspector Ryman [06:26]: "It's Cadby. Dr. Petrie, the most promising lad at the Yard."
• Inspector Weymouth [08:23]: "He almost succeeded where we failed, Petrie. There's no doubt in my mind that he was hot on the track of Fu Manchu."

5. Uncovering Clues and Pursuit

The investigation leads Smith and Weymouth to Cadby's residence at 22 Cold Harbor Lane, where they discover Cadby's casebook and other incriminating items. Their urgency is palpable as they race against time to intercept Fu Manchu's next move.

Notable Quotes:

• Inspector Weymouth [09:14]: "Good job we kept the cab number. 22 Cold Harbor Lane. Driver, as quickly as you can."
• Inspector Weymouth [09:43]: "Do you suppose Fu Manchu's going to leave evidence like that book lying about? It's a thousand to one he has it already."

6. Confrontation and Tension Rise

Upon arriving at Cadby's residence, Nayland Smith confronts Dr. Petrie, who becomes increasingly distressed and evasive. The tension escalates as identity and betrayal come to the forefront, culminating in the dramatic entrance of Fu Manchu himself, signaling a pivotal moment in the narrative.

Notable Quotes:

• Nayland Smith [11:03]: "You lured Cadby to his death."
• Dr. Petrie [11:23]: "I have taken nothing for Dr. Petrie. You must go at once. You are in terrible danger."
• Fu Manchu [12:18]: "Ah, Dr. Fuchsia. I have been waiting for an opportunity to meet you personally."

7. Cliffhanger Ending

The episode concludes on a suspenseful note with Fu Manchu's ominous presence and his declaration of an "interesting little experiment," leaving listeners eagerly anticipating the resolution in subsequent episodes.

Notable Quote:

• Fu Manchu [12:18]: "Take him, Lal. But be careful. Very careful. He must remain alive for the interesting little experiment we shall perform later."

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Conclusion

"Fu Manchu 39-05-12 (003) The Death List" delivers a captivating installment filled with mystery, suspense, and the relentless pursuit of justice by Inspector Nayland Smith and his team. The intricate plot weaves together sinister motives, cryptic clues, and intense character dynamics, embodying the essence of the Golden Age of Radio. With its engaging dialogue and cliffhanger ending, this episode promises more thrilling developments in the battle against the elusive Dr. Fu Manchu.

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Notable Exclusions:
As per the episode's structure, all advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content segments, including Ryan Seacrest's promotional messages, have been excluded to focus solely on the narrative content.

Transcript

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[Inspector Weymouth]

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[Narrator]

The shadow of Kumansu Based on the stories by Zach Roma.

[Dr. Petrie]

It'S.

[Narrator]

Commissioned by the British government to bring to justice Dr. Fu Manchu, the arch criminal and the head of the Black Poppy Society. Special Inspector Nayland Smith and his associate, Dr. James Petrie arrive at the London home of the Crichton Davy, British statesman, too late to save him from his dire's kiss death. Through the bite of a deadly poisonous insect, Smith has discovered the object of Dr. Fu's presence in London to be the elimination of outstanding scientists and political leaders, of which the Crichton Davy was the first on Fu Manchu's list. Back in their Baker street quarters, a similar attempt on their lives is frustrated by the quick action of Nayland Smith.

[Inspector Weymouth]

Careful, Petrie. I think I've killed it. But even in death, the thing is venomous.

[Nayland Smith]

God, Naylon.

[Inspector Weymouth]

What?

[Nayland Smith]

What is it?

[Inspector Weymouth]

Come here.

[Nayland Smith]

Look.

[Inspector Weymouth]

Don't touch it. Have you ever seen a giant centipede? Look at the size and color of the thing.

[Nayland Smith]

It's at least 6 inches long. A vivid and venomous red.

[Inspector Weymouth]

Apparently it's of the Scolopendra group. The shape's absolutely strange to me.

[Nayland Smith]

Something of the appearance of a huge ant. Look at these. Long antenna, numberless legs. Never seen an insect move so incredibly fast as this thing ran around that tinted envelope.

[Inspector Weymouth]

What?

[Nayland Smith]

The man who brought it?

[Inspector Weymouth]

Never mind the dacoid, Petrie. Nemesis will know where to find him. We at least know now what causes the mark of desired kiss. It's definitely placed.

[Inspector Ryman]

Aye.

[Nayland Smith]

Science is richer for our first brush with the enemy.

[Inspector Weymouth]

I understand now something that's been puzzling me since Burgoyne mentioned it. Sir Crichton's sighful cry. The Red Hand. When we remember that he was almost past speech, it's reasonable now to suppose his cry was not the Red Hand, but the Red ant. Horrible, Nayland. And to think I failed by less than an hour to save Sir Crichton. From such an end. Oh, it's a tough case, PC. But I swear to get that murderer sooner or later.

[Narrator]

Meanwhile, in the great tapestry hung room of the gloomy old mansion in High street, the yellow robed Fu Manchu issues his orders to a trusted henchman.

[Fu Manchu]

And what do you mean by results, master? Results, Lal, are what I demand and expect from my servants. Sing has failed me. And your orders, my sir? Eliminate Sing at once in the usual manner. To hear is to obey. And what of the detective, Nayland Smith? It appears that I have underestimated his abilities. Leave him to me, Lal. Presently I shall think of a method whereby we may put both Nayland Smith and his friend Dr. Petrie aside.

[Inspector Weymouth]

I say, Petrie, when you finish with that paper.

[Fu Manchu]

Hello?

[Inspector Ryman]

Dr. Petrie?

[Nayland Smith]

Speaking. Weymouth.

[Inspector Ryman]

What is it? I'm calling from the Whopping river police station. Could Mr. Smith come down here at once?

[Nayland Smith]

Just a moment, Weymouth. He's right here. Speak to him yourself.

[Inspector Weymouth]

Hello, Weymouth. What is it?

[Inspector Ryman]

I'd rather not say over the phone. Mr. Smith, it's important that you come as soon as possible. They do a follow up of last night's case.

[Inspector Weymouth]

Right, Weymouth, we'll be down at once. Must be important, Petri. And if Fu Manchus at the bottom of it, it's probably something ghastly. Come on, we'll motor down to the station. It'll save time. We'll get a cab at the corner. I'm Nayland Smith. I want to see Inspector Weymouth.

[Fu Manchu]

Special Inspector Nayland Smith.

[Inspector Weymouth]

Yes, yes. Is Weymouth here? This way, sir.

[Inspector Ryman]

Right in here, Mr. Smith. Glad you came. And you, Dr. Peter. Oh, well. And ask Inspector Ryman to step in here.

[Dr. Petrie]

Right on, sir.

[Inspector Weymouth]

All right, Weymouth. What is it?

[Inspector Ryman]

Over here, Mr. Smith. On the table. I'll remove the sheet.

[Inspector Weymouth]

By Jove.

[Nayland Smith]

Who is it, weymouth?

[Inspector Ryman]

It's Cadby. Dr. Petrie, the most promising lad at the Yard.

[Inspector Weymouth]

Disguised, eh? Rough sailor garb, stained skin, gold ring in one ear.

[Inspector Ryman]

Aye, and look at his left hand.

[Inspector Weymouth]

Three fingers missing. It appears as though they'd been chopped off. Weymouth.

[Inspector Ryman]

It was almost the same with Mason. A week ago he went off in his own time on some funny business down St. George Way. And the following night, Thursday night, the 10 o' clock boat got the grapnel into him off Hanover Hole. His first two fingers on his right hand were clean guns. His left hand was frightfully mutilated. Oh, this is Inspector Reimer. Special Inspector Nayland Smith and Dr. Petrie. Reimer. How'd you do, Inspector?

[Narrator]

I overheard your remarks, Weymouth, about Gadby's and Mason's mutilated hands at Latchko we picked out of the river. Both his hands were mutilated in the same manner.

[Inspector Weymouth]

Are these things on the table found in Cadbigh's clothing?

[Inspector Ryman]

Yeah, right, sir.

[Inspector Weymouth]

Watch, money, knife. Hmm. What the devil? Chinese pigtail.

[Inspector Ryman]

That's why we sent for you. It appears to be the first clue pointing to the authors of these strange claims.

[Inspector Weymouth]

A false one, of course. Attached to a most ingenious bald wig.

[Inspector Ryman]

Yes, we believe it part of a Chinese makeup. Cadby was clever at disguise.

[Inspector Weymouth]

Disguise, yes, but certainly not used by Cadby. Now look here. Too small by inches for his head. Look how the crown's padded. This thing was made for a most abnormal head. Where did you find him exactly?

[Narrator]

Limehouse Reach on the Commercial Dock Pier exactly an hour ago.

[Inspector Weymouth]

And you last saw him at 8 o' clock last night?

[Narrator]

That's right.

[Inspector Weymouth]

How long has the man been dead, Petrie?

[Nayland Smith]

Oh, roughly 24 hours.

[Inspector Weymouth]

And we know that he was on the track of the Fu Manchu group. That he followed some clue which led him to the neighborhood of Old Ratcliffe Highway. You're sure, Weymouth, that that's where he was going?

[Inspector Ryman]

Yes. He liked to work things out alone. Would have meant a big lift for him if he'd pulled that case off. He left the yard at 8 o' clock to go to his room and dress for the job.

[Inspector Weymouth]

Did he keep any record of his cases?

[Inspector Ryman]

Of course. We all do. In that respect. He was particular. You'll want his book. I'll get his address.

[Inspector Weymouth]

He almost succeeded where we failed, Petrie. There's no doubt in my mind that he was hot on the track of Fu Manchu. Mason, the other officer, probably blundered on the tent too, and met with a similar fate.

[Nayland Smith]

Without other evidence, the fact that they both died in the same way as the dacoit would be conclusive. For we know that Fu Manchu killed the dacoit.

[Inspector Weymouth]

Exactly.

[Narrator]

But Inspector Smith, what is the meaning of the mutilated hands?

[Inspector Weymouth]

Oh, heaven knows, Rhymer. Cadby's death was caused by drowning, you say?

[Narrator]

Well, there are no other marks of violence, but he was a strong swimmer and Mason was like a fish in the water.

[Inspector Ryman]

Here's Cadby's address. Number 22, Cold Harbor Lane. You'll find his casebook in the cupboard on the sitting room. Top shelf, right hand side. Here are his keys. This is the cupboard key.

[Inspector Weymouth]

Thank you. Come on, Petrie. We must move along this time.

[Inspector Ryman]

Yes. Yes, of course, Naylon.

[Inspector Weymouth]

Good job we kept the cab number. 22 Cold Harbor Lane. Driver, as quickly as you can. Joseph, we're only in time. Fu Manchu is sure to come there this time. Petrie, we'll wait. The pigtail. I forgot it. Stop, driver, stop. We've got to have that pigtail.

[Inspector Ryman]

Petrie.

[Inspector Weymouth]

Don'T wait for me. Go to the address and get that book. Come straight out to Scotland Yard and meet me there.

[Nayland Smith]

Oh, but, Nayland, I'll wait. Or we'll go back. A few minutes can make no difference.

[Inspector Weymouth]

Do you suppose Fu Manchu's going to leave evidence like that book lying about? It's a thousand to one he has it already. But there is just a bare chance. Go on. Tyler.

[Dr. Petrie]

Yes, what do you want?

[Nayland Smith]

I'm Dr. Petrie. Sorry to bring bad news regarding your tenant, Mr. Cadby.

[Dr. Petrie]

Bad news, eh? Oh, well, that was to be expected. The company kept, what with that wailing at the back of the house last night and tonight again. Just a moment before you knocked.

[Nayland Smith]

Wailing just now. This police card should let me in. Where's Cadby's room?

[Dr. Petrie]

First floor, second door to your right. There's a woman in there. Now.

[Inspector Weymouth]

Don'T move.

[Nayland Smith]

What are you doing in this room?

[Inspector Weymouth]

Tell me.

[Nayland Smith]

So I did get here in time. Oh, Dr. Petrie, what have you taken from that cupboard? Give it to me.

[Dr. Petrie]

Oh, I. I have taken nothing for Dr. Petrie. You must go at once. You are in terrible danger. Please, please go.

[Nayland Smith]

Not until you give me what you took from that cupboard. Then you're going with me to the police.

[Dr. Petrie]

I will tell you all I can, all I dare. I know how to deal with your friends, but with you, I. I am lost. If you could only understand, you would let me go.

[Nayland Smith]

Let you go? You have no claim to mercy.

[Dr. Petrie]

I am not free as your English women are free. What I do, I. I must do, for it is the will of my master, and I am only. And you, Dr. Petrie, you are not a man. If you can give me to the police. You have no heart. If you can forget that only last night I tried to save you.

[Nayland Smith]

You lured Cadby to his death.

[Dr. Petrie]

Oh, no. No, I swear I did not. I spied upon him, yes. But it was because he would not be warned that he met his death. I could not save him.

[Nayland Smith]

Then save yourself by telling me where I can find Fu Manchu.

[Dr. Petrie]

Oh, I dare not. I dare not. Not if you would go to find him. Your friend, Leyland Smith. Yes, I would tell him if he.

[Nayland Smith]

Would die no, that's ridiculous. Come on, tell me.

[Dr. Petrie]

Could you hide me from him if I came to you and told you all I know?

[Nayland Smith]

Well, the authorities would have.

[Dr. Petrie]

Ah, the authorities. They can put me on the rack if they choose. But not one word would I speak. But to you I would tell all I know.

[Nayland Smith]

Very well, then, speak. Tell me where I can find Fu Menchu.

[Dr. Petrie]

Oh, no, no, not now. Not. Good heavens.

[Fu Manchu]

Ah, Dr. Fuchsia. I have been waiting for an opportunity to meet you personally.

[Inspector Weymouth]

Fu men too. No, no.

[Fu Manchu]

Do not reach for your pistol. It would be useless. Take him, Lal. But be careful. Very careful. He must remain alive for the interesting little experiment we shall perform later.

[Narrator]

THE Shadow of Fu Manchu.

[Dr. Petrie]

Foreign.

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