Sky King xx-xx-xx (x) The Black Circle

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: Sky King xx-xx-xx (x) The Black Circle
Release Date: June 5, 2025

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Introduction to the Adventure

Sky King, America's favorite fine cowboy, embarks on a high-stakes mission to dismantle a formidable criminal syndicate known as the Brotherhood of Fear, or the Black Circle. This episode, titled "The Black Circle," takes listeners on a thrilling journey from the sun-kissed shores of Arizona to the perilous streets of Marseille, France.

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Setting the Stage: The Pursuit Begins

The episode kicks off with Sky King and his trusted companions—Clifford ("Clipper"), Penny, and Jim Bell—determined to track down the elusive Brotherhood of Fear. Their latest lead directs them to Marseille, a city famed for its romantic allure yet notorious for its crime-ridden underbelly.

Clipper muses at [01:40]:
"Darling Sky, do you suppose Marseille is the headquarters of the Brotherhood?"

Sky King responds thoughtfully at [01:44]:
"Could be, Benny. Ships come here from every corner of the world. Lot of criminals here too, aren't there, Sky?"

The team recognizes Marseille's reputation as "the toughest city west of Suez" ([01:44]) but debates the risks involved in operating so far from their home base in Arizona ([01:59]).

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Uncovering Clues: Chateau D and Sudden Explosions

As they navigate Marseille, Sky King spots the Chateau D—a rocky island fortress with a storied past. Clipper identifies it at [02:08]:
"Well, that's the Chateau D. It's the prison the Count of Monte Cristo escaped from."

Their aerial survey takes a dramatic turn when an explosion erupts on La Canada, one of the world's most famous streets ([02:31]). The team witnesses the chaos from above, prompting immediate concern and strategic deliberation.

At [02:38], Clipper exclaims:
"It looks like you ripped up a whole corner."

Sky King assesses the situation, replying at [02:40]:
"What do you suppose, having Sky? I don't know, Clipper, but we'll find out after we land."

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Confrontation with the Police: Accusations and Alliances

Upon landing, Sky King firmly believes he has identified the driver responsible for the explosion ([02:52]). Despite skepticism from Clifford, Sky King's conviction remains unshaken:

Sky King at [02:54]:
"But I've got to, Mary. I tell you. I recognize the driver of that car."

The situation escalates as tensions rise between personal justice and collective responsibility. Clifford warns of potential dangers if Sky King proceeds alone ([03:16]), but Sky King's resolve to punish the culprits remains steadfast.

Their determination catches the attention of Inspector Conway, who recognizes Sky King's reputation and seeks his expertise. This alliance marks a pivotal moment as they delve deeper into the Brotherhood's operations.

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A Race Against Time: The Threat Escalates

Inspector Conway provides critical information about the Brotherhood's activities, revealing their latest heinous act—a daylight bombing intended as a dire warning ([03:16]). Sky King and his team press forward, gathering intel and strategizing their next moves.

At [04:33], Clifford inquires:
"Do you have any kind of a lead?"

Sky King responds optimistically:
"From the members we arrested in Buenos Aires, we found out that the gang's trademark here in Marseille is a Black Circle." ([04:38])

As the plot thickens, Sky King uncovers a direct threat against his wife, Mary, forcing him into a moral quandary. The gang demands he withhold testimony against a key member, Pierre Bocage, under threat of harm ([08:39]).

Pierre Bocage delivers a chilling ultimatum at [12:05]:
"Unless you release Pierre Bocage, Marseille will be bombed again at nine o'clock tonight."

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Devising a Bold Plan: Double Identity and High-Stakes Maneuvering

Faced with the dire circumstances, Sky King concocts a daring plan to infiltrate the Brotherhood's ranks by assuming the identity of Bob Conway ([09:57]). This risky tactic aims to gather inside information and thwart the impending disaster.

Sky King explains at [10:00]:
"I'm going to the Hotel Metropole and pose as Bob Conway."

The tension mounts as Sky King confronts the Brotherhood leader, Jeff Colby, who attempts to unmask his true identity. Through quick thinking and strategic deception, Sky King gains the upper hand, leading to a dramatic showdown.

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Climactic Confrontation: Sky King's Ingenious Strategy

In a heart-pounding sequence, Sky King engages in a perilous aerial maneuver to diffuse a ticking time bomb disguised as a plane loaded with explosives. Coordinating with his team, he skillfully guides the meteor-loaded craft away from the city ([17:19]).

Sky King declares at [17:12]:
"He is here. Take a look. A plane caught in a searchlight."

Despite Jeff Colby's threats, Sky King's ingenuity prevents mass casualties, showcasing his unwavering commitment to justice.

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Resolution: The Brotherhood Defeated

As midnight approaches, Sky King successfully neutralizes the Brotherhood's threat, capturing Jeff Colby and ensuring the safety of Marseille. The episode concludes with Sky King's triumphant return, reuniting with his wife and reflecting on the night's harrowing events.

Clifford acknowledges at [19:06]:
"Bocage finally realized the jig was up and decided to talk."

In a final showdown, Sky King dispatches Colby to face justice, cementing his role as a steadfast hero dedicated to safeguarding the innocent.

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Notable Quotes

• Clipper at [01:40]:
  "Darling Sky, do you suppose Marseille is the headquarters of the Brotherhood?"

• Sky King at [02:54]:
  "But I've got to, Mary. I tell you. I recognize the driver of that car."

• Clipper at [04:33]:
  "Do you have any kind of a lead?"

• Sky King at [09:57]:
  "I'm going to the Hotel Metropole and pose as Bob Conway."

• Jeff Colby at [12:05]:
  "Unless you release Pierre Bocage, Marseille will be bombed again at nine o'clock tonight."

• Sky King at [17:12]:
  "He is here. Take a look. A plane caught in a searchlight."

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Conclusion

"The Black Circle" episode of Sky King masterfully blends suspense, action, and the timeless charm of classic radio storytelling. Sky King's relentless pursuit of justice against the Brotherhood of Fear serves as a testament to heroism and ingenuity, captivating listeners with every twist and turn. This episode not only entertains but also underscores the enduring appeal of the Golden Age of Radio's adventurous spirit.

Transcript

[Nicole Byer]

We interrupt this program to bring you an important Wayfair message. Wayfair's got style tips for every home. This is Nicole Byer helping you make those rooms flyer today's style tip. When it comes to making a statement, treat bold patterns like neutrals. Go wild like an untamed animal. Print area rug under a rustic farmhouse table. From wayfair.com. ooh, fierce. This has been your Wayfarer style tip to keep those interiors superior.

[Sky King]

Wayfair. Every style, every home. That Carol scene. What are you doing? What does it look like? I'm going to splash it around on these curtains and drapes. Then we'll set a match to it and clear out before the police get here. You are listening to another trail packed adventure of Sky, America's favorite fine cowboy. Brought to you by America's favorite peanut butter Derby's golden roasted Peter Pan peanut butter. Today, Sky King and the Black Circle. Sky King and his friends have undertaken to track down a secret but powerful gang known as the Brotherhood of Fear. Well, today the trail has brought the songbird winking across the sun warm Mediterranean Sea toward the great French city of Marseille, Port of romance and danger.

[Clifford]

Darling sky, do you suppose Marseille is the headquarters of the Brotherhood?

[Sky King]

Could be, Benny. Ships come here from every corner of the world. Lot of criminals here too, aren't there, Sky? Well, Marseille does have a bad reputation. All right, Clifford. They call it the toughest city west of Suez. Then why in Tar Nation didn't we stay back home in Arizona? Think of all the fun he'd been missing, Jim.

[Clifford]

Hey, Clifford, you see that little rocky island down there just outside the harbor? It has sort of a castle or a fortress on it.

[Sky King]

Yeah, what about it?

[Clifford]

Well, that's the Chateau D. It's the prison the Count of Monte Cristo escaped from. Yes, good.

[Sky King]

If there's one thing I hate worse going up in the air, it's coming down too shut. Now, we're over the old fort. Now, the Germans blew up this part of Marseille during the war, but that.

[Clifford]

Big avenue through the center of town, According to this map in the guidebook, that must be La Canada, the most.

[Sky King]

Famous streets in the world. Hey, sky, get a load of that smoke down there. Yeah, it just blossomed up all of a sudden. You. That's an explosion.

[Clifford]

It looks like you ripped up a whole corner.

[Sky King]

What do you suppose having Sky? I don't know, Clipper, but we'll find out after we land.

[Clifford]

Bob, you can't go to the police.

[Sky King]

But I've got to, Mary. I tell you. I recognize the driver of that car.

[Clifford]

You can't be sure.

[Sky King]

I am sure. I've seen him twice in the lobby at our hotel.

[Clifford]

Even if you're right, it's business of ours.

[Sky King]

No business of ours. The men who threw that bomb are coldblooded killers. They deserve to be punished.

[Clifford]

And suppose they belong to the Black Circle? The gang has been terrorizing this whole city.

[Sky King]

Then all the more reason. The sooner that gang winds up behind bars, the better off this town will be.

[Clifford]

But it's not our town, Bob. We're just a couple of troops.

[Sky King]

There's nothing to be scared of.

[Clifford]

Who said yourself those men are killers? Now suppose the gang finds out you were the one who turned them in.

[Sky King]

Don't worry. The police won't give out my name. Now, come on, let's go talk to the gendar. Monsieur King. But there was no need to bring this letter of introduction. We or the police judiciary have already heard much of your exploits, both in America and in other countries. Thanks, Inspector. Then we can count on your help. But of course. Now, about this criminal syndicate. They call it the Brotherhood of Fear. From the members we arrested in Buenos Aires, we found out that the gang's trademark here in Marseille is a Black Circle. You circle them up. I beg your pardon? The Black Circle. That is the name of a gang which has been holding Marseille in a grip of terror for the last two months. A grip of terror? We they are mixed up in every form of crime, from blackmail to murder. Yep, that sounds like the outfit we're after all right. Today comes the worst of all. As a threat of defiance to the police, they commit a bomb outrage in broad daylight. A bomb? A sky? Must have been the explosion we saw. It happened on La Canbrier, near the Old port. Yes, we saw it from the air just before we landed. Luckily, no one was killed.

[Clifford]

Do you have any kind of a lead?

[Sky King]

May we? A young American businessman was able to recognize one of the men who threw the box. Does he know the man by name? No, only by sight. But I am hoping he will be able to pick out the man's picture from our police tiles. If you will come with me to the next room, we shall see how he progress. Yes, of course. After you, Inspector. Monsieur Conway, may I present a countryman of yours, Monsieur Sky King. Sky King. Say, I've heard of you. Glad to know you, Mr. Conway. The name's Bob. All right. This is my niece and nephew, Penny and Clipper. Hi, Bob. And my ranch foreman, Jim Bell. Nice to know you, sir. Well, Mr. Conway, have you found the man yet to throw the bump? Yes, this picture right here. I'm quite sure that's the man. Pierre Bocage. Yeah. His favorite hangout is the Cafe Napolitan and the Rue des Chapeliers. Tell me, Monsieur King, have you ever seen how the police of Marseilles bring a trap? No, but I've heard about your methods. Then perhaps you would like to come along when we pay a call on the Cafe Napolitan? Me? You have the area closed off, which I marked on the map Reinstect. Sir, there is a police car working the entrance to every street. Unleash the dog.

[Clifford]

Oh, my gosh. You wouldn't want one of those dogs to get mad at me.

[Sky King]

Mary, when we tell a man to make no sudden move and he get one look at those dogs, I promise you he stand very soon. Can we go in the cafe with you? No. But for you two had better wait here with Jim. We. That is the best idea in case of trouble. M. Let us go now and see if we find our friend Pierre Bo. Well, what is it?

[Clifford]

The police, they are downstairs in the cap.

[Sky King]

What?

[Clifford]

There's no arrest Pier.

[Sky King]

And he was right. That guy Conway did spy.

[Clifford]

I do not know what you mean, monsieur.

[Sky King]

But you tell me, was that American with the police?

[Clifford]

There are two Americans. Both were tall. But the one who identified Pierre, he have mustache and wear, how you say? Spectacles.

[Sky King]

It's Conway, all right.

[Clifford]

Don't it make any difference?

[Sky King]

Plenty of difference. You see, Conway has a wife and I don't think he'd like to see anything happen to her.

[Clifford]

That is fine, monsieur, but right now the police are tracking everyone in the cafe. And soon they may search the upper floor.

[Sky King]

Can I make it out the back way?

[Clifford]

No, there's around the place both front and back. He will have to live by the roof.

[Sky King]

All right, but do me one favor.

[Clifford]

As you wish, monsieur. But please let the chap who, when.

[Sky King]

The police are gone, call Mrs. Robert Conway at the Hotel Liverpool.

[Clifford]

Oui.

[Sky King]

Tell her that her husband was wounded here at the cafe and the police car will come to pick her up in a few minutes. Now back to Sky King and the Black Circle. Several hours have passed since the raid on the cafe in Atolla. 10 now at the headquarters of the police judiciary. If you ask me, that Jasper Bogoji ain't going to talk. Yes, the hard times at once. Still, we must not despair. With the testimony of Bob Conway, you can at least send him to prison. And if one of the bomb victims should die, he may also find himself facing the Guillotine Boy. If it was my neck, I'd talk and talk. Bonnet, did you find out anything about the gang? Not so far, Clifford.

[Clifford]

Golly. Mr. Connolly is awfully worried.

[Sky King]

Something wrong, monsieur? That's my wife. I've been trying to phone her at the hotel, but our room doesn't answer. Oh, well, now. Maybe she's gone out for a bite to eat. I've been trying for the last hour. Andrew. It was sent over from his hotel. You read the ass, Doctor. That's marked urgent. Now, let's see what's ins.

[Clifford]

Oh, it's on. What is it?

[Sky King]

My. My wife's passport and a written message. But does it? Feel it yet? If you ever hope to see your wife again, alive and unharmed, then you'd better not testify against Pierre Bocage. You must testify. Without your help, we cannot hope to convict my wife. They've taken her prisoner. Then all the more reason, monsieur, if you will testify, perhaps we can make more conspiracy. No. No, I won't do it. I know how you must feel, Bob, but you can't trust a gang like that, no matter what they say. I've got to trust them. It's my only hope of saving Mary. If you try bargaining with them to save her, you'll just be risking your own life. What do you mean? Figure it out. She's no danger to them, but you are. But if I promise not to testify, they'll take your word for that. As long as you're alive, they can never feel safe. Oh, what a fool I've been. Mary was afraid. She warned me not to get mixed up in this thing. Wait a minute. Maybe there is another way. You got some kind of an idea, Sky? Bob, is this man Bocage the only member of the gang who might know you by sight? I. I guess so. Why? Well, you and I are the same height and we have the same color hair. If I wore your glasses and a fake mustache, they probably couldn't tell us apart. You mean. I mean I'm going to the Hotel Metropole and pose as Bob Conley. Inspector released the news that Bob will not testify. I have a hush that sooner or later the gang will try to contact me.

[Clifford]

Oh, maybe that's sky now.

[Sky King]

Hello? This is Sky King. Inspector. Ah, maybe. Have you heard yet from the gang? I've just had a phone call. They've taken the bait. You mean they believe you are Monsieur Conway? Right. They told me if I want to get my white mag to start walking down La Carbiere in half an hour. Do they tell you what will happen? I'll be picked up by a black limousine, providing the police aren't following me. Sacre bleu. That may be dangerous. It could be a lot more dangerous if they think I'm leading them into a trap. But how can we train you and save Madame Conway? Here's what I have in mind. When we landed here at Marseille, I noticed a French army helicopter standing on the airfield. Now, if we could borrow that helicopter, we. Helicopter calling Inspector. Say come. They can't be seen. Sky King was just picked up by a black car. Where did the Pickup take place? 4 black stats of the Boulevard de la Liberation car is now proceeding toward the Old port. The radio car will stand back. Report again as soon as you know the exact destination. Is this the place? Oui, monsieur. And if you are wise, you will try. No false moves. Hello. Voila. Monsieur. Incite, please. Well, well. We have a visitor. I see you're an American. Does that surprise you? Not especially. Where's my wife? Mrs. Conway isn't here, if that's who you mean. Then you're not going to find her. So you may as well drop the act, Mr. Sky King. Sky King? But I thought this was Monsieur Conway. Sure, that's what we were expected to think. That's why he wore those spectacles. And this false mustache. Donald King. Just get your hands up high. All right. Looks like you're holding the trump card. You mind telling me how you found out? Very simple, really. I looked out the window and noticed a helicopter hovering low over the city. Seemed like quite a coincidence, so I tuned in the police broadcast and there it was. I take it you are the local head of the Brotherhood Affair. In Marseille we call it the Black Circle. From the looks of your headquarters here, your operations must not be very profitable. Sorry, King, but this is just one of several hideouts we maintain around the city. Very wise precaution. But what happens now? This does that could take care of him for the time being. The kerosene. What are you doing? What does it look like? I'm going to splash it around in these curtains and drapes. Then we'll set a match to it and clear out before the police get here.

[Clifford]

The place is on fire. If Sky's in there, you'll be burned to death.

[Sky King]

Now don't worry, honey. We'll get him out. Sunbuck, please. Mum's ey. That's it. Now let's go there and find them. Swallow it, warlocks. The smoker. Better hold the handkerchief over your face, monsieur. Yeah, a good idea. Voila. There he is. On the flowers. He identity. They'll just knock him out. He is coming soon. Off down there. Opening. Come on, give me a hand. Let's haul him out of here. May we? No, no need for that. But thanks. Thanks for getting here in time. We hit the clear yet, son? Come on, get moving. Hello, Inspector. F. Camp. They come. It's the leader of the gang. The man who knocked me out, tried to burn me alive. Listen to me, Mitchie. I warn you. You had better give yourself up. Don't make me laugh, Inspector. You see, I called to give you a warning. And what does that mean? Unless you release Pierre Bocage, Marseille will be bombed again at nine o' clock tonight. And this time I mean railway bombed. Compliments to the Black Circle. Back to Sky King and the Black Circle. It's 8:35pm Less than half an hour from the time when the leader of the Black Circle is threatened to bomb Marseille. At the headquarters of the Police Judiciary, Sky King and his friends wait tensely for the deadline to arrive.

[Clifford]

Oh, golly, Sky. The clock is getting awfully close.

[Sky King]

Them French law dogs don't find that Jasper mighty quick, this whole town might go sky high. Including this building we're in right now. Jim, did you ever find that man's picture in the Rogues Galleries? Guy, I mean, the one who calls himself the leader of the Black Circle? Yes. He's an American named Jeff Colby. Police record both here and back in the States. Why don't we go out in the streets and walk around, huh? Anything is better than just sitting here.

[Clifford]

We can. All the streets have been cleared.

[Sky King]

The police have stopped all traffic. They're checking everyone they see. Yeah, the inspector told me they even stopped the trees runners.

[Clifford]

Gee, must be just like it was during the war when they had an air raid.

[Sky King]

That's about right, Penny. It's a. Wait a second. What's the matter, Sky? An air raid? That may be it.

[Clifford]

I didn't get it.

[Sky King]

The police have been assuming all along this would be a case of someone planting a bomb. Or maybe throwing it from a speeding car. The way it was done last time. I mean, this time it may be dropped from an airplane, huh? Come on. We better find the inspector and get out to the airfield fast. Them fresh speed cops sure didn't lose any time getting us out here at the airfield. Good thing they borrowed this jet plane for him, too. Yeah, we get around a lot faster than his job.

[Clifford]

Oh, golly. Sure.

[Sky King]

No move. You may have counted on that. Live on the first light. Good. Got him playing all over the city. We'll stay out here beyond the edge of the city. If he comes at all. It's the inspector King of Aong Commencely. We have just received a call from the air Ministry. They tell the men like Jeff Koby shop up from an airfield near Rabinon.

[Clifford]

Yeah, you were right, King.

[Sky King]

To be. Where's above?

[Clifford]

60 miles by air, northwest of Mar, 6 miles.

[Sky King]

He ought to be here by now. Apple and buzzards. He is here. Take a look. A plane caught in a searchlight.

[Clifford]

And it's coming from the northwest.

[Sky King]

An old blaster. Meteor Sky King calling Meteor. Is that you, Colby? Too bad you didn't fry in that Friar, King. Maybe we can remedy that later on. I'm warning you, Colby. You better turn back. Oh, what happened? Or you've had it like this. That's just a warning, Colby. Go ahead, King. This ship is loaded with pnp. You shoot me down over the city, it'll be just like dropping a blockbuster.

[Clifford]

Guy, he's right. If that plane crash can go up, it might kill hundreds of people.

[Sky King]

But putting the ship in a dive, heading right for the heart of Marseilles.

[Clifford]

No, he's fading out.

[Sky King]

Hey, you can clobber that bullcat mouse, guy. Not while he's hanging in the field pin.

[Clifford]

He knew you wouldn't shoot him in cold blood at that plane sky.

[Sky King]

What are you gonna do?

[Clifford]

It'll crash for sure. Right in the city.

[Sky King]

We don't dare shoot her down. Which means we'll have to try another way.

[Clifford]

Guy, what are you going to do?

[Sky King]

The same thing a Navy pilot did just a couple of weeks ago. What's that? A pilot bailed out, left his jet heading for a short crash over San Diego.

[Clifford]

What happened?

[Sky King]

Another pilot flew wing to wing with it. Just like I'm doing with this meteor. Hey. Hey, Skye. Roll it out your dog. Bottom wingtips are touching. That's right, Jim. Now, if we can ease over to the other side, then shuttle back across his nose. Jack, the plane's turned off course.

[Clifford]

You're dragging it right along with it.

[Sky King]

I'm controlling it with the force of our plane's airflow. Now, if our luck holds, we'll ease this crate right out to sea and we'll crash it out beyond the harbor where it can't harm anyone. Sorry to keep you tied up like this, Mrs. Conway. That husband of yours had just minded his own.

[Clifford]

I'm glad he went to the police.

[Sky King]

You may have cause to change your mind about that if Bocage is convicted.

[Clifford]

Bob was right. Men like you should be punished.

[Sky King]

I'm afraid they'll have to catch me first.

[Clifford]

You can't escape the law forever.

[Sky King]

I did tonight. I timed my jump so as to land right in the freight yards.

[Clifford]

Too bad a freight train wasn't coming.

[Sky King]

You should have seen those poor dumb gendarmes. They had to search every car. By the time they wound up, they were playing tag with each other. Mind his feet. Myself. You should be gone. Right out of his hand. Your son set you free. Mary. Here, I got a knife. I'll cut them ropes.

[Clifford]

Oh, God, I'm so glad to see you.

[Sky King]

Oh, easy now, honey. It's all over.

[Clifford]

But how did you ever find this place?

[Sky King]

Bocage finally realized the jig was up and decided to talk. So did the old woman at the Cafe Napolitan. With what we learned tonight, we put the Black Circle up a business for kick. But you won't get away, King. The Brotherhood will see to that. I'll take my chances. Colby, a moment ago you spoke about the gendarmes playing tag with each other. Well, from now on on your it for at least the next 20 years in a French prison. So once again, Sky King wins out in his constant fight for justice at the temple of dreams. The preceding transcribed this is the Mutual Broadcasting System.

[Nicole Byer]

We interrupt this program to bring you an important Wayfair message. Wayfair's got style tips for every home. This is Nicole Byer helping you make those rooms flyer. Today's style tip when it comes to making a statement, treat bold patterns like neutrals. Go wild like an untamed animal. Print area rug under a rustic farmhouse table from wayfair.com Ooh. Fierce. This has been your Wayfarer style tip to keep those interiors superior.

[Sky King]

Wayfair Every style, every home. Most people would rather remove a nest of irate hornets than search for auto and home insurance. That's why the zebra searches for you. Comparing over 100 insurance companies to find savings no one else can compare. Today@the zebra.com I think I'll wait inside.