Secret Agent K7 39-xx-xx (03) Information Peddler

Summary

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Podcast Summary: Secret Agent K7 – "Information Peddler"

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: Secret Agent K7 39-xx-xx (03) "Information Peddler"
Date: January 4, 2026
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Genre: Golden Age Radio Drama

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Overview

This episode from the classic radio drama series "Secret Agent K7" delves into the ever-present threat of information peddlers and spies. Set against a backdrop of diplomatic intrigue, K7 tells the story of Agent M and his assistant Yvonne as they attempt to stop the leakage of sensitive military secrets and set a trap for traitors within their ranks. Through clever subterfuge, teamwork, and a tense confrontation, the episode explores themes of patriotism, trust, and the high cost of betrayal.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

1. Introduction to the Threat of Information Peddlers

• K7 opens the story by emphasizing how dangerous information peddlers and spies are to world peace.
  • Quote: "Spies and information peddlers are a great menace to the peace of the world." — K7 (01:25)
• K7 hands over the narrative to his colleague John Holbrook, setting the stage for Agent M and Yvonne’s operation.

2. The Case Begins: Diplomatic Breach

• Agent M is approached by Sandor, a minor diplomat who discreetly reveals he has lost important code books, possibly exposing confidential communications.
  • Quote: "Certain code books were placed in my keeping... they have disappeared. Unless I get them back, I will be ruined." — Sandor (03:02)
• The dialogue establishes tension and the urgency of recovering the missing materials.

3. Assembling the Team

• Agent M secretly telegraphs for Yvonne’s assistance (04:00), recognizing her value as someone unrecognized in the city and thus an ideal undercover agent.
• M outlines the plan: Yvonne is to play the role of a "patriot" who may be interested in buying information, serving as bait to draw out the peddler.

4. The Trap is Set

• Yvonne executes the plan: dining alone at the hotel each evening, receiving mysterious mail, and not drawing attention to herself.
  • Quote (about her cover): "You see, I am a patriot. I am interested in nothing but the welfare of my country." — Yvonne (07:34)
• The Head Waiter attempts to feel Yvonne out, probing her interest in defense matters and offering to deliver secret messages, demonstrating the undercurrent of espionage operating in everyday venues.

5. The Information Exchange

• A note arrives for Yvonne (09:15), instructing her to call a number and arrange a clandestine meeting.
• She is picked up by car and meets the information peddler who offers secret results of "robot plane" tests for 200,000 francs.
  • Quote: "You have complete information as to how it operates?" — Yvonne
  • Quote: "The information is here in this envelope." — Sandor (10:01)

6. The Confrontation and Capture

• Yvonne returns to the hotel to ostensibly get the money, but the trap is sprung.
• Agent M, Yvonne, and allies turn the tables on Sandor and the Head Waiter, revealing that the "secret tests" and messages were a fabrication designed to confirm the traitors’ guilt.
  • Quote: "As it is, they trap you. Your government is not testing a robot aeroplane. This information is all false, sent out to prove that you are a spy." — Agent M (12:15)

7. Epilogue: Consequences and Reflection

• K7 closes the story by reflecting on the lasting danger spies like Sandor pose and the resolve of special agents to prevent war by stopping such men.
  • Quote: "Such men as Sandar are dangerous to their own countries and to the peace of the world... If it is within our power, we will help prevent another [war]." — K7 (13:04)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• K7’s statement on the gravity of espionage:
  "Spies and information peddlers are a great menace to the peace of the world." (01:25)

• Sandor's desperation:
  "Unless I get them back, I will be ruined." (03:07)

• Yvonne’s perfectly played cover:
  "You see, I am a patriot. I am interested in nothing but the welfare of my country." (07:34)

• Agent M reveals the trap:
  "Your government is not testing a robot aeroplane. This information is all false, sent out to prove that you are a spy." (12:20)

• Yvonne’s closing witticism:
  "Then will you put away your dark glasses in your tin cup? I want to have dinner. I'm with you. I'm tired of dining alone." (12:40)

• K7’s final reflection:
  "We have seen the horror of one war. And if it is within our power, we will help prevent another." (13:04)

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Key Timestamps

• 00:08 – Secret Agent K7 returns; episode opens
• 01:25 – K7 introduces the threat of information peddlers
• 03:02-03:09 – Sandor reveals the missing code books
• 04:00 – Agent M requests Yvonne’s help
• 05:07-05:11 – Discovery that changing codes hasn’t stopped leaks
• 06:10-06:26 – Yvonne is briefed on being the bait for the trap
• 07:34 – Yvonne establishes her cover as a “patriot"
• 09:20 – Yvonne receives the meeting instructions
• 10:01 – Information peddler offers "secret" test data
• 12:04-12:30 – Trap is revealed and traitors are arrested
• 13:04 – K7’s closing monologue about the dangers of espionage

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Tone & Style

The episode's tone is tense and atmospheric, with clipped, formal dialogue characteristic of Golden Age spy dramas. There’s a palpable sense of suspicion and uncertainty, mirrored in the measured, almost terse exchanges between agents and suspects. Agent M and Yvonne’s professionalism is contrasted by the anxious, self-preserving treachery of Sandor and the Head Waiter. The language is patriotic but never bombastic, lending a gravity befitting the international stakes of espionage.

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Conclusion

"Information Peddler" is a classic tale of subterfuge, loyalty, and cunning—a staple of the Secret Agent K7 catalog. By weaving together undercover operations, clever baiting, and a satisfying twist, it both entertains and issues a warning about the perils of selling out one’s nation. For fans of vintage radio drama, it demonstrates the enduring appeal of stories where intellect and integrity outwit deception.

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Transcript

[Agent M]

Secret agent K7 returns.

[Sam]

Sam.

[Narrator]

America's number one adventurer. K7, former United States secret agent who operated in 22 countries, on land, on sea and in the air, brings you another modern story of today.

[Agent M]

Here is K7.

[K7]

Ladies and gentlemen, may I repeat a statement I have made many times today. Spies and information peddlers are a great menace to the peace of the world. It is the story of an information peddler I bring to you now. This man, whom I have called only by his first name, was doubly despicable since he posed as a servant of his country and a patriot. My friend John Holbrook will introduce the story.

[Narrator]

Thank you, K7. Recently, K7 told the story of how Secret agent M first encountered Yvonne, the girl who became his assistant. Now we bring you the story of the second time M& Yvonne worked together. M was investigating a case which involved.

[Agent M]

The leakage of diplomatic secrets.

[Narrator]

His findings took him to a continental city. He'd been there but a few hours when he was approached in his hotel lobby.

[Agent M]

Monsieur, the agent.

[Sandor]

You remember me?

[Agent M]

Yes, yes, of course I do.

[Sam]

You are.

[Sandor]

Please, it is enough that you know me. Do not call me by my name here on this place.

[Agent M]

As you wish.

[Sandor]

We can talk better over there, across the room. You will listen to me?

[Agent M]

Of course I will.

[Sandor]

Then follow.

[Sam]

You.

[Sandor]

See, it is better here. I am glad that you do not hold all scores against me, Monsieur. I am in trouble.

[Agent M]

I need your help. I'll be glad to give it if I can.

[Sandor]

During the war, I was a.

[Agent M]

A politician.

[Sandor]

That is a kind way to put it, but it is true. Now I serve my country. Here I am in the diplomatic service.

[Agent M]

So I understand.

[Sandor]

Certain code books were placed in my keeping.

[Sam]

They.

[Agent M]

They have disappeared. I see.

[Sandor]

Unless I get them back, I will be ruined.

[Agent M]

Monsieur, how long have these code books been missing?

[Sandor]

How long? That is hard to say. You see, I did not have to use them often. Only today I noticed they were gone.

[Agent M]

And I arrived darnly today.

[Sandor]

What do you mean, monsieur?

[Sam]

Nothing.

[Agent M]

It's a coincidence, that's all. Sando, I may be busy for a few days. However, I'll keep your code books in mind. And if I hear anything.

[Sandor]

I thank you, monsieur. I knew you would take me. I. I cannot afford another scandal. Monsieur, I thank you.

[Narrator]

Later that evening, M telegraphed Yvonne. He wrote the message out, then studied it.

[Agent M]

You asked to assist me. Have case on which you can help. Come here at once. Register at hotel and wait for message for me. Expenses enclosed. Yes, that should bring him. Send this immediately. Also this Money.

[Sandor]

At once, M. Thank you.

[Agent M]

Let's see. The cable office is to my right. Yes, there it is. I must contact Case 7 at once.

[Narrator]

Two days later, Yvonne arrived. She registered at the hotel, went to her rooms and waited. A few hours later, M knocked on her door.

[Yvonne]

Who is it?

[Sandor]

Let me in.

[Agent M]

Ivan.

[Sam]

Em.

[Yvonne]

I wondered when you would come.

[Agent M]

Quick, close the door.

[Yvonne]

I'm so glad to see you. Thank you for calling me.

[Agent M]

I promised I would. Yvonne, I need your assistance. You would be especially valuable to me here because you are unknown. I can't remain with you long, so I'll outline our case at once.

[Yvonne]

Sit down, then. Now I'm ready.

[Agent M]

Briefly, here are the facts. Diplomatic and military information has been leaking out the results of certain tests. Valuable information has been decoded from wireless messages and sold.

[Yvonne]

How could that be him? Unless the spies possess the code books.

[Agent M]

They do possess them, Ivan. The books have been reported stolen. They were in the hands of a minor diplomatic representative.

[Yvonne]

Then why have the codes not been changed?

[Agent M]

That has also been done. The information continues to leak out.

[Yvonne]

Then it is not going to be easy, is it, Em?

[Agent M]

I'm afraid not. Unless you are successful, tell me what.

[Sam]

I am to do.

[Agent M]

I was coming to that. On my first day here, the man who has reported the loss of the code book said to me, do not call me by name here in this place. We were downstairs in the hotel lobby at the time. What do you make of that, Ivan?

[Yvonne]

That someone here might recognize you?

[Agent M]

Exactly. You do, Ivan. He was afraid that either he or I or both of us would be seen. Evidently, this hotel is the headquarters. Of course, it may be some of those involved lived here.

[Yvonne]

What is your plan, Ian?

[Agent M]

It may not sound like much of one, but all I want you to do is have dinner alone each evening in the dining room.

[Yvonne]

Is that all?

[Agent M]

That is all. I want you to always sit alone and at the same table. Oh, yes. There's one thing more. I have arranged that you will receive some mail. It will come to you from another country. You are never to stop at the desk for that mail, Ivan. When you're in the dining room, ask the head waiter to bring it to you.

[Yvonne]

That is all I am to do?

[Agent M]

Nearly all. After opening your mail, burn it at your table. And if anyone should ask who you are, merely say that you're a patriot. Tell them that you think only of your country's welfare.

[Yvonne]

And I aim to be a sort of trap. Is that it?

[Agent M]

Yes, Ivan.

[Sandor]

You are right.

[Agent M]

You will be a trap. A very beautiful trap.

[Sam]

Thank you.

[Agent M]

Now I must Leave you. Good luck, Yvonne. And watch the blind man who stands in the street outside the hotel door. The one to whom you gave a coin this morning. Goodbye. I may contact you later.

[Narrator]

Yvonne followed M's simple instructions. Each night she dined alone. And each night she received a letter which bore an important seal. M seemed to have disappeared completely.

[Head Waiter]

Good evening, Mamdel. You will want your same table?

[Yvonne]

Yes, of course.

[Sandor]

This way.

[Head Waiter]

I have reserved it for you. May I take your lap?

[Yvonne]

Thank you.

[Head Waiter]

Here is your mail, Mandel. I took the liberty of getting.

[Yvonne]

Put it down. I will read it later.

[Narrator]

Yes, ma'.

[Sam]

Am.

[Narrator]

Is there anything else I can get for you?

[Yvonne]

My dinner, of course.

[Head Waiter]

I was not thinking of that. Only that you are always alone. You are not expecting anyone or perhaps a message?

[Sam]

No.

[Yvonne]

Evidently there is no one here who is interested in me. You see, I am a patriot. I am interested in nothing but the welfare of my country.

[Head Waiter]

You serve your country, Mamzel?

[Yvonne]

In a small way. Sometimes I hear useful information.

[Head Waiter]

Your country, is it interested in air defense?

[Sam]

Of course.

[Agent M]

Then perhaps I can help you.

[Head Waiter]

If you would receive a message in your room.

[Yvonne]

I shall look forward to its coming. You will accept this? It is a 100 franc note.

[Head Waiter]

Mandela's generous.

[Yvonne]

When I am given information that interests me, I pay well for it. Now, my dinner at once.

[Narrator]

Was the trap working? Yvonne finished her dinner and decided to.

[Agent M]

Take a short walk.

[Narrator]

The head waiter escorted her to the hotel's door.

[Head Waiter]

There is a wind, Mamzel. Now let me hold your app.

[Yvonne]

I'm not going fast.

[Sam]

Wait.

[Yvonne]

My bag. I can see the blind man through the window. I must get a coin for him.

[Head Waiter]

I have not seen him there before.

[Yvonne]

I'm ready. Good night.

[Head Waiter]

Good night, Mandela. Tomorrow you will receive a note. Follow its instructions carefully.

[Yvonne]

I will. It is cold for you to be standing in the street, Monsieur. I will put a coin in your cup. Perhaps you can go home now.

[Narrator]

The next day, Yvonne received a note. She was instructed to telephone to a certain number. She made the call immediately.

[Sam]

Hello. Hello.

[Sandor]

You are interested in my offer, Mamzel?

[Yvonne]

Yes, I am very much interested. Who are you?

[Sandor]

That does not matter. Tonight I will send a car for you.

[Yvonne]

At what time?

[Sandor]

9 o'. Clock.

[Agent M]

Be ready.

[Yvonne]

I'll wait in front of the hotel until tonight.

[Sam]

I'm here.

[Narrator]

That evening the car arrived and Ivan was driven away. Outside the city it stopped for another passenger. Then it drove into the night.

[Sandor]

Tests are being conducted at Seaman's End. A robot plane controlled by radio flies over a target and drops bombs. It could fly over a City.

[Yvonne]

You have complete information as to how it operates.

[Sandor]

The tests have been going on for a week. Every message between the technical staff conducting the tests. And the military officers ashore has been decoded. The information is here in this envelope.

[Yvonne]

Then I will buy it. How much do you want?

[Sandor]

200,000 francs, Mamson.

[Yvonne]

Oh, it's a lot of money. I have not that much with me. You will have to drive me back to my hotel.

[Sandor]

To the hotel?

[Narrator]

Very well.

[Sandor]

But I must warn you, Mamcel, if you try anything. Go back to the hotel, driver.

[Agent M]

Where, monsieur?

[Sandor]

It is not far. The officers of your army will gain much information from these notes, Ma', am. If war should come. Do you think there will be war someday? Who knows when?

[Yvonne]

You have not told me your name.

[Sandor]

Or does it matter? I have the information you need. I will let you inspect it before you pay me.

[Yvonne]

But what if I should want to contact you again?

[Sandor]

You need only contact the head waiter.

[Yvonne]

That is useful information, monsieur.

[Sandor]

It is a simple matter, but here's the hotel. Remember my warning.

[Yvonne]

I'll be gone only a few moments.

[Sandor]

I will wait here. Mamzel. You will be watched.

[Yvonne]

Oh, monsieur, have your coin. It is for the blind man.

[Sandor]

Of course, Mamzel. Here is one.

[Yvonne]

Thank you. Good evening, monsieur. Here is your coin. He has the papers written in the car.

[Agent M]

M. Ivan. Wait for me inside.

[Head Waiter]

Ah, Mamzel. You have returned.

[Sam]

Yes.

[Yvonne]

Your dining room is deserted.

[Head Waiter]

Yes. It is past the dinner hour.

[Yvonne]

Then step inside. I want to talk to you.

[Agent M]

Here will be all right?

[Head Waiter]

Yeah. You wanted to say something?

[Sam]

Wait.

[Agent M]

Mamzel.

[Head Waiter]

Is this a trick?

[Sandor]

I have a pistol.

[Yvonne]

Look, before you attempt anything.

[Head Waiter]

The blind man.

[Yvonne]

And Sandor is with him.

[Agent M]

Stand over there. Sandor, take my gun. Yvonne, keep them both covered. I want to have a look at these papers.

[Sandor]

You cannot do this.

[Agent M]

I have a perfect right to those papers.

[Sandor]

They tell about tests conducted by my government.

[Yvonne]

Is everything there, Ian?

[Agent M]

Everything. Sandow, you're under arrest.

[Sandor]

You cannot prove anything. I have a right to the papers.

[Agent M]

Perhaps you would have had a right to them if they dealt with real tests. As it is, they trap you. Your government is not testing a robot aeroplane.

[Sandor]

What?

[Agent M]

What do you mean? An old friend of yours, K7, arranged these messages. They were part of a trap. This information is all false, sent out to prove that you are a spy.

[Head Waiter]

I had nothing to do with it.

[Yvonne]

He lies in. Sandor told me that they work together.

[Agent M]

We'll have no trouble proving that. Yvonne, these two have sold out their company for the last time. The authorities will be here for them in a minute.

[Yvonne]

Then will you put away your dark glasses in your tin cup? I want to have dinner. I'm with you. I'm tired of dining alone.

[K7]

Such men as Sandar are dangerous to their own countries and to the peace of the world. Special agents hate them, for we know their menace. We have seen the horror of one war. And if it is within our power, we will help prevent another. Listen for my next story. This is K7 speaking.

[Sam]

Sam. Ram. Sam.