Podcast Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: Man Called X 47-05-15 (07) The Stamp Story
Release Date: July 9, 2025

Introduction

In this thrilling installment of "Man Called X", hosted by Harold's Old Time Radio, listeners are transported to the tumultuous landscape of Libertago, where espionage, intrigue, and a high-stakes conspiracy unfold. Ken Thurston, the enigmatic protagonist known as the Man Called X, is tasked with thwarting a coup d'état orchestrated by the nefarious Borla. This episode intricately weaves elements of mystery, romance, and suspense, capturing the essence of the Golden Age of Radio drama.

Departure and Mission Briefing

The episode opens with Ken Thurston receiving urgent instructions about Borla, a dangerous individual believed to be planning a coup in Libertago:

• [01:04] Herbert Marshall: "Wherever there is mystery, intrigue, romance and all the strange and dangerous places of the world, there you will find the man Called X."

Ken is informed by his chief about Borla's activities and the critical nature of his mission:

• [01:08] Chief: "He's planning a coup d'état in Libertago. It could be a threat to the whole hemispheric security."

Ken acknowledges the gravity of the situation and prepares to depart immediately, highlighting the high stakes involved:

• [01:40] Ken Thurston: "Borla may have his men in key spots, even in the government. Watch your step."

Encounter with Marie Vilva

During the flight to Libertago, Ken meets Marie Vilva, a woman who appears friendly but harbors her own fears:

• [02:23] Marie Vilva: "Buenas noches. I am sorry to laugh at you."
• [04:00] Marie Vilva: "When I sing in a cafe in Libertago, he hears me. From then on, I have no peace. He wants to marry me."

Marie reveals her dread of Borla, who has been obsessively pursuing her. Ken's protective instincts are immediately apparent:

• [04:43] Marie Vilva: "I come back to Libertago to settle the estate of an only uncle. As soon as possible, I fly back to New York."
• [04:56] Marie Vilva: "Ken, there is in Libertado someone I fear."

This establishes a romantic subplot intertwined with the main narrative, adding depth to Ken's mission.

Introduction of Pagon Zellschmidt

Shortly after, Pagon Zellschmidt emerges as a persistent figure seeking money from Ken:

• [03:06] Pagon Zellschmidt: "Oh, Pagon, I said to myself, now that the plane is safely up in the air, it is time to present myself to my employer."
• [05:08] Marie Vilva: "How did you know that?"
• [05:42] Ken Thurston: "Unless you can suggest some other bodyguard."

Pagon’s presence introduces additional tension, suggesting that Ken's mission is fraught with unexpected challenges.

Arrival in Libertago and Sabotage

Upon landing in Libertago, an assassination attempt on Ken underscores the imminent danger posed by Borla:

• [06:20] Pagon Zellschmidt: "Have you really to land?"
• [07:19] Senor Florio: "This prisoner, he seems to know you, Mr. Thurston."

The death of Captain Oliphant serves as a pivotal moment, hinting at deeper layers of conspiracy:

• [14:07] Ken Thurston: "Borla's trail, Captain Oliphant is found dead with a knife in his back."

Unraveling the Stamp Conspiracy

Ken and Senor Florio delve into the connection between the fire at the Government Printing Office and the rare stamps:

• [15:25] Ken Thurston: "The Director of Printing... find him for me. I've got to talk to him right away."
• [15:52] Senor Florio: "The Director of Printing, Mr. Prius... all the plates melted down."
• [16:00] Ken Thurston: "Baller has his hands on the new stamps. The only copies in existence. That'd be worth a fortune."

This revelation uncovers Borla’s motive: exploiting the scarcity of newly issued stamps to finance his coup, leveraging the immense value they hold for collectors worldwide.

Climactic Blockade and Betrayal

In a tense confrontation, Senor Florio takes decisive action to prevent Borla from escaping:

• [17:01] Senor Florio: "Everything has been taken care of. We have blocked every possible means of exit from this country."
• [19:00] Marie Vilva: "You have already done enough. Let the others do the rest."

However, the plot takes a dramatic turn as Marie reveals her betrayal, aligning herself with Borla:

• [24:35] Marie Vilva: "Make them put an end to this."
• [25:00] Senor Florio: "They have found the stamps in her luggage."

Ken's realization of Marie’s deceit adds emotional complexity to the resolution, highlighting themes of trust and betrayal.

Resolution and Conclusion

Ken neutralizes Borla’s scheme by ensuring the stamps are authenticated and the conspiracy is dismantled:

• [20:13] Marie Vilva: "The hobby of postage stamps. Well, it seems such an innocent pastime, Marie."
• [20:18] Ken Thurston: "In the United States alone, there are 11 and a half billion stamp collectors... These stamps have been used in the mails."

The episode concludes with Senor Florio expressing gratitude, and Ken foreshadowing future adventures:

• [25:30] Ken Thurston: "May every one of those stamps be a symbol of good government, the kind that will survive in spite of men like Borla."
• [26:21] Herbert Marshall: "And our Frigidaire star, Herbert Marshall."

Notable Quotes

• Ken Thurston: "There’s only one X, you know, Even in the Alphabet."
  [01:30]

• Marie Vilva: "Now I tell you why I laugh... I might have been looking at you."
  [02:31]

• Senor Florio: "Senor Zellschmidt, you will forever be a hero."
  [23:51]

• Ken Thurston: "Sam."
  [25:30]

Final Thoughts

"Man Called X: The Stamp Story" masterfully blends elements of suspense, romance, and strategic intrigue, keeping listeners engaged from start to finish. The intricate plot involving counterfeit stamps as a tool for political destabilization showcases the creativity and depth typical of Old Time Radio dramas. As Ken Thurston navigates the perilous streets of Libertago, the episode highlights themes of loyalty, deception, and the relentless pursuit of justice.

For enthusiasts of classic radio storytelling, this episode offers a captivating narrative filled with memorable characters and clever twists, ensuring that "Man Called X" remains a timeless favorite.