Detailed Summary of "Harold's Old Time Radio"
Episode: "Nick Carter 43-08-02 (017) Murder in the Crypt"
Release Date: April 26, 2025

Overview

In this enthralling installment of "Harold's Old Time Radio," titled "Murder in the Crypt," listeners are transported to the enigmatic setting of an Egyptian Museum plagued by mystery and deceit. The episode features the astute Master Detective, Nick Carter, embarking on a quest to unravel the sinister disappearance and murder of Shelby, the museum's chief attendant. As Carter delves deeper, he encounters ancient legends, suspicious characters, and supernatural claims that challenge his investigative prowess.

Setting the Scene

The story commences with Nick Carter receiving a call from Dr. Waldemar, igniting the central mystery of Shelby's sudden disappearance ([02:30] Lieutenant Ranish: "Are you Dr. Valdemar?"). The Egyptian Museum, home to relics from ancient Egypt, becomes the backdrop for this intricate tale, setting the stage for a blend of historical intrigue and modern-day crime.

Key Characters Introduced

• Nick Carter: Renowned Master Detective known for his unparalleled crime-solving skills.
• Patsy Bowen: Carter's trusted assistant, aiding in investigations.
• Professor Glidden: The museum's archaeologist responsible for the Egyptian exhibits.
• Dr. Waldemar: A pivotal figure linked to the museum's operations and the case at hand.
• Lieutenant Ranish: The local police officer collaborating with Carter.
• Madam Daklar: The museum's librarian who introduces supernatural elements.

The Disappearance and Initial Investigation

Nick Carter arrives at Dr. Waldemar's office, where the gravity of Shelby's disappearance is discussed. Despite exhaustive searches, Shelby remains missing, with the only unexplored area being the crypt of King Sneferu ([02:54] Dr. Waldemar: "Yes, Lieutenant. Everywhere except in the crypt of Snaprut."). Professor Glidden, holding the sole key to the crypt, becomes a person of interest as suspicions begin to surface.

Notable Quote:

[03:18] Nick Carter: "Precisely."
(Referring to Professor Glidden having the only key to the crypt)

Supernatural Claims and Heightened Suspense

As the investigation unfolds, Madam Daklar introduces a supernatural angle by claiming to witness Anubis, the Jackal God, roaming the museum ([09:24] Madam Daklar: "I have seen the living Anubis walk through the corridors of this museum."). These claims add a layer of mystique and tension, challenging the protagonists to discern fact from folklore.

Notable Quote:

[09:24] Madam Daklar: "I have seen the living Anubis walk through the corridors of this museum."

Discovery in the Crypt

Venturing into the crypt, Nick Carter and Lieutenant Ranish make a startling discovery: Shelby's lifeless body concealed within the ancient sarcophagus. This revelation contradicts earlier reports that Shelby never left the museum premises ([07:31] Nick Carter: "This crypt is as solid as a rock. We've tested every inch of floor and walls and ceiling here.").

Notable Quote:

[07:31] Nick Carter: "This crypt is as solid as a rock. We've tested every inch of floor and walls and ceiling here."

The investigation intensifies as Madam Daklar's descriptions of Anubis intersect with tangible evidence, creating a compelling narrative that intertwines myth with reality.

Clues and Conspiracies Unveiled

Further probing reveals architectural anomalies within the crypt. The sarcophagus sits atop an elevator system cleverly concealed within the crypt's structure, suggesting a meticulously planned method to facilitate Shelby's murder without detection ([25:05] Patsy Bowen: "And there was a sarcophagus standing in an alcove that was really the elevator shaft.").

Notable Quote:

[25:27] Patsy Bowen: "Then later, Shelby decided to look for the treasure on his own."

This discovery points towards a larger conspiracy involving key museum personnel, hinting at motives tied to embezzlement and exploitation of the museum's treasures.

Climactic Confrontation and Resolution

In a dramatic culmination, Nick Carter confronts Dr. Waldemar and Professor Glidden within the crypt. The true scheme unfolds: Professor Glidden and Dr. Waldemar orchestrated Shelby's murder to obscure their illicit activities and manipulate the museum's legacy. The use of Anubis lore served as a diversion, leveraging ancient myths to mask their modern deceit.

Notable Quote:

[25:34] Patsy Bowen: "And Waldemar put Madame Dacler in the crypt so Glidden would be blamed again."

As guilt surfaces, the culprits reveal their motivations, leading to their eventual apprehension. Nick Carter's keen intellect and unwavering determination ensure that justice prevails, restoring order to the museum and exonerating the innocent parties involved.

Final Revelation:

[26:34] Professor Glidden: "I imagine it is, Ms. Bourne."

With the mystery resolved, the episode closes on a note of triumph for Nick Carter and Patsy Bowen, setting the stage for future adventures.

Notable Quotes Throughout the Episode

• "I am Anubis, guardian of the dead." — Dr. Waldemar ([01:35])

• "Anubis can pass through all barriers." — Madam Daklar ([18:43])

• "The bald facts in this case is this, Riley. You have no proof that Professor Glinton even came to this museum last night." — Nick Carter ([08:05])

• "I have seen the living Anubis walk through the corridors of this museum." — Madam Daklar ([09:24])

• "This crypt is as solid as a rock. We've tested every inch of floor and walls and ceiling here." — Nick Carter ([07:31])

• "Exactly. But he didn't have to kill Decla. She knew nothing. You see, he merely grabbed Decla in order to get the original plans of the museum." — Nick Carter ([25:38])

Conclusion

"Murder in the Crypt" stands as a testament to the timeless allure of detective fiction, seamlessly blending historical intrigue with suspenseful storytelling. Nick Carter's methodical investigation, coupled with the atmospheric setting and richly developed characters, delivers an engaging listening experience reminiscent of radio's golden age. This episode not only entertains but also underscores the enduring appeal of unraveling complex mysteries through intellect and perseverance.

Listeners are left eagerly anticipating the next adventure, where Carter's resolve is tested once more in the face of new enigmas and adversaries.