The Avenger 45-08-24 (12) The Blue Pearls

Summary

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Podcast Summary: The Avenger 45-08-24 (12) The Blue Pearls

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: The Avenger 45-08-24 (12) The Blue Pearls
Original Air Date: August 24, 1945
Podcast Release Date: September 5, 2025
Host: Harolds Old Time Radio

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Episode Overview

This episode features a restored broadcast of The Avenger, a classic radio show from the Golden Age of Radio. In “The Blue Pearls,” Jim Brandon (alias The Avenger) and his assistant Fern Collier investigate a string of seemingly accidental deaths connected to a dope-smuggling ring using blue pearls as their delivery method. The narrative unravels a criminal enterprise hiding beneath social respectability, showcasing themes of justice, subterfuge, and scientific ingenuity.

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Key Discussion Points and Story Beats

1. The Epidemic of Reckless Driving and Suspicious Deaths

• Inspector White convenes detectives: Reckless driving in the city has led to a wave of fatalities, and he vows aggressive action. (03:02)
  • “Reckless driving is a crime against public safety.” – Inspector White [03:48]
• Jim and Fern encounter a car accident: They witness a woman’s car weaving before crashing; she is found dying and obsessed about her missing pearls. (04:01–05:10)
  • “My pearls… my pearls.” – Unnamed accident victim [04:56]
  • Jim recognizes her “dying thought was of her pearls.” [05:31]
• Initial investigation: No pearls are found at the scene, leading to suspicion about their real value or purpose. Jim notes the victim was drugged, indicating foul play. (05:54)

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2. The Club Rendezvous and the Pearl Scheme

• Dining undercover: Jim and Fern visit Club Rendezvous, suspecting it’s linked to the victims. Jim suspects a narcotics operation—one requiring “the utmost caution.” (06:44–07:00)

• The staged pearl accident:

  • Brenda Clegg (later revealed as part of the criminal ring) “accidentally” breaks her necklace, asking diners to help recover the pearls. Jim quietly retains some, realizing they’re the key to the operation. (07:34–08:00)
  • “Those pearls are absolutely worthless. The whole string could be bought for 10 cents.” – Jim Brandon [09:24]
  • He deduces pearls with dope are being discreetly delivered during the confusion—a clever method to avoid suspicion. (09:27–09:54)
    • “It would be an extremely clever way to deliver a pearl or two that contained dope, wouldn’t it?” – Jim [09:40]

• Waiter interrogation: Jim questions Frederico, the waiter, and discovers Brenda has pulled this trick multiple times at the club. (10:25–11:59)

  • “She tips me well and I ask no questions.” – Frederico [11:09]

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3. The Ring Starts to Unravel

• Brenda turns on her partners: Brenda Clegg, fearing arrest and dissatisfied with her cut, threatens to expose the ring. Smokey (her partner) kills her before she can confess. (12:32–13:50)

  • “You don’t have what it takes to pull the trigger. You’re yellow, Smokey.” – Brenda Clegg [13:24]

• Jim’s strategy: On discovering the murder, Jim persuades Inspector White to keep Brenda’s death secret for 24 hours to draw out the rest of the gang. (14:26–14:36)

  • “We’ve got to give this dope ring a chance to keep Operating if we want to pull in the whole mob.” – Jim Brandon [14:29]

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4. The Undercover Trap

• Fern goes undercover: Fern poses as Brenda’s friend to learn about the dope operation and a mystery motorboat key found among Brenda’s things. Fern plans to draw out Brenda’s accomplice, the Countess. (15:09–17:28)
• Meeting the Countess: Fern gains the Countess’ trust by providing Brenda’s address and hinting at shared exploits, leading them to leave together. Fern cleverly signs “Loch Island” on a check to tip off Jim. (17:44–19:40)
  • “Signing Loch Island instead of your name... was quick thinking.” – Jim Brandon [30:08]

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5. Capture, Escape, and The Avenger’s Intervention

• Pursuit: The Countess spots they’re being tailed; she and Fern use an apartment house as cover, ultimately meeting up with Smokey. [20:05–21:29]
• Confrontation: Smokey, realizing Fern is an imposter, reveals he killed Brenda; Fern is tied up, destined for disposal with the gang’s planned escape. (21:47–24:58)
• Jim Brandon’s rescue: Using his “invisibility” device, Jim confronts the criminals aboard the motorboat, subdues Smokey, and forces their surrender to authorities. (25:52–26:45)
  • “I’m the Avenger, Countess.” – Jim Brandon [26:14]
  • “Now turn the boat around and make for the dock. Unless you prefer to swim back.” – Jim Brandon [26:38]

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6. Case Resolution and Aftermath

• Ring is busted: The boat shipment is intercepted; the narcotics squad arrests the entire operation. (28:36–28:53)
• Explaining the scheme: Jim shows Fern an actual blue pearl—wax, tinted blue, indistinguishable in a cheap necklace, used to smuggle drugs. (29:17–29:38)
  • “The shell of the bead is made of wax and tinted blue. Just enough coloring for a discerning eye…” – Jim Brandon [29:19]
• Reflections: Fern thanks Frederico for his act of loyalty, and Jim commends Fern’s quick wits.
  • “Maybe if I stick around long enough, you will make a real detective out of me.” – Fern Collier [30:08]
  • “I don’t know whether I’d like that or not, Vern. Real detectives are supposed to have long noses and big ears.” – Jim Brandon [30:13]

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Notable Quotes and Memorable Moments

• “Reckless driving is a crime against public safety.”
  – Inspector White [03:48]

• “My pearls… my pearls.”
  – Dying woman [04:56]

• “It would be an extremely clever way to deliver a pearl or two that contained dope, wouldn’t it?”
  – Jim Brandon [09:40]

• “You don’t have what it takes to pull the trigger. You’re yellow, Smokey.”
  – Brenda Clegg [13:24]

• “We’ve got to give this dope ring a chance to keep operating if we want to pull in the whole mob.”
  – Jim Brandon [14:29]

• “I'm the Avenger, Countess.”
  – Jim Brandon [26:14]

• “The shell of the bead is made of wax and tinted blue… for a discerning eye to distinguish it from an ordinary pearl.”
  – Jim Brandon [29:19]

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Key Timestamps

• 03:02: Inspector White addresses the crime wave
• 04:25–05:10: Jim and Fern rescue the accident victim obsessed with pearls
• 07:34–09:00: Brenda’s staged pearl accident at the club
• 11:05–11:59: Waiter Frederico questioned
• 13:24: Brenda Clegg murdered as she tries to confess
• 14:26: Jim advocates for secrecy to catch the whole gang
• 17:44–19:40: Fern’s undercover meeting with the Countess
• 21:29–24:58: Fern captured, criminals plot escape
• 25:52–26:45: The Avenger’s invisible intervention and capture of the gang
• 29:17–29:38: The mechanics of the blue pearl drug-smuggling revealed
• 30:08–30:19: Fern celebrates her success and Jim teases her detective skills

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Tone and Atmosphere

The episode maintains the brisk, suspenseful tone characteristic of 1940s crime adventure radio. Dialogue is sharp and clever, often laced with wry humor and understated affection between the leads. The villains display classic gangster bravado, while The Avenger balances scientific rationality, heroism, and an ever-present sense of fairness.

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Summary

“The Blue Pearls” deftly mixes thrilling crime drama with unique period charm, spotlighting the ingenuity of criminals and sleuths alike. Using scientific gadgets and quick thinking, Jim Brandon and Fern Collier dismantle a hidden narcotic ring, using undercover tactics and timely intervention to bring about justice. For fans of classic radio, this story is a fine encapsulation of adventure, suspense, and the timeless promise that “crime does not pay.”

Transcript

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[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

The Avenger the road to crime ends in a trap that justice sets. Crime does not pay.

[Fern Collier]

Sam.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Ra.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

The Avenger, sworn enemy of evil, is actually Jim Brannan, a famous biochemist. Through his numerous scientific experiments, Brandon has perfected two inventions to aid him in his crusade against crime as the Avenger. The telepathic indicator by which he is able to pick up thought flashes. And the secret diffusion capsule which cloaks him in the black light of invisibility. Brandon's assistant, the beautiful Fern Collier, is the only one who shares his secrets and knows that he is the man the underworld fears as the Avenger. And now, the Avenger and the Blue Pearls. Inspector White is addressing a group of detectives at headquarters.

[Inspector White]

You men have been selected for this emergency detail because we've got to put a stop to these hit run accidents. During the past few weeks, eight people in this city have died and twice as many have been injured because of reckless driving and unnecessary speeding. It's up to you men to ferret out these reckless drivers and get them off the road. I'll see that they're apprehended. We've got to get out and put the brakes on this situation, even if we have to revoke half the licenses in this city. Reckless driving is a crime against public safety.

[Fern Collier]

Jim, is this road a shortcut to the beach?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

I know, Fern, but it gets us out of that heavy traffic on the main highway.

[Fern Collier]

I'm glad you came this way. Maybe we could enjoy the drive.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Fern, look at that car ahead of us.

[Fern Collier]

Why, it's weaving all over the road. A woman's driving. Maybe there's something wrong with the car.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

But she must be crazy. She's speeding up, Jim.

[Fern Collier]

She's sure to have an accident. Can't we do something?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

We'll try. Hold tight, Fernando. I'll catch up with her.

[Fern Collier]

Jim, she's driving off the road. She's going to hit that tree. Jim, she's crashed.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Come on, Fern. We've got to get her out of there.

[Fern Collier]

The car's Bursting into flames, Jim.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Stay back a little, Fern.

[Fern Collier]

Well, be careful, Jim. The hood's on fire.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

It's okay, I've got her.

[Fern Collier]

Is she otherwise?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

I don't know. She's unconscious.

[Fern Collier]

Oh, put her down here, Jim.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Oh, she's in pretty bad shape. Fern, go back to our car and radio headquarters. Tell them to send an ambulance.

[Brenda Clegg]

Right, Jim.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

In the meantime, I'll wrap this coat around her and try to bring her to. Well, there, you're all right now, miss. You're safe.

[Fern Collier]

My pearls. My pearls.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Never mind your pearls, young lady. We've got to worry about getting you to a hospital.

[Fern Collier]

My pearls.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Fern. Fern, tell them to hurry that ambulance.

[Fern Collier]

I got the message through, Jim. It'll be here in a few minutes.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

That'll be too late, I'm afraid. This woman's dying.

[Inspector White]

Jim. You must be mistaken. We've been through every scrap of this wreckage and there's no sign of any pearls here.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

I'm not mistaken, Inspector. That girl's dying thought was of her pearls.

[Fern Collier]

They must have been valuable, Inspector. She didn't have them on, so they must have been in the car.

[Inspector White]

Well, they're not here now, Fern. I'll vouch for that. Jim, as soon as my men finish here, I want you to come down to headquarters and make a full report on this accident.

[Fern Collier]

At least we know this wasn't one of those hit run affairs, Inspector.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

No, this was even more serious than that.

[Inspector White]

What are you talking about, Jim? I thought you said that this.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Technically it was an accident, Inspector, but it wasn't caused by carelessness. That woman was doped.

[Fern Collier]

Gosh, Jim, this club rendezvous is lovely. But a very disillusioning thought just struck me.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Oh, what's that, Vern?

[Fern Collier]

I think we're here on business, not pleasure.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Sometimes your hunches are uncanny.

[Fern Collier]

Well, let me in on the big secret, Jim. What clues are you tracking down in this expensive manor?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

I did a little checking this afternoon, Fern, and discovered that several persons who have figured in automobile accidents lately were known to frequent this club.

[Fern Collier]

Well, here we go again.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

I know the inspector thinks it's impossible for dope peddlers to be operating in the city, but I'm not so sure.

[Fern Collier]

But why don't you let the narcotics squad take care of it, Jim?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Because there's very little to go on so far, Fern. And besides, to get the kind of evidence we need will require the utmost caution.

[Fern Collier]

Well, Mr. Brandon, the dinner is delicious and the atmosphere is elegant. I don't mind proceeding with caution this evening.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

I think we'll call It a night, Fern. It's almost closing time.

[Fern Collier]

I had a grand time, Jim. Let's have one more dance before we leave.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

All right, Fern.

[Fern Collier]

I wouldn't mind if all our blind trails were as pleasant as this.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

I'm afraid there's a little of the.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

Butterfly in you, young lady.

[Brenda Clegg]

Oh, my pearls. I've broken them. Help me pick them up. Oh, be careful, Jim.

[Fern Collier]

There's one right beside your foot.

[Brenda Clegg]

Waiter. Waiter, help me find my pearls.

[Frederico (Waiter)]

Yes, miss, we'll find them all. Would you be so kind everyone to put the pearls you find here on this plate, please?

[Fern Collier]

I found you, Jim. How many do you have?

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

3.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Don't put them on the plate, Vern.

[Fern Collier]

Why, Jim?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

I'll explain later. Just keep them.

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[Frederico (Waiter)]

I. I think they're all here. Now, miss.

[Brenda Clegg]

Just a moment.

[Fern Collier]

I'll count them.

[Brenda Clegg]

There were 40.

[Fern Collier]

Oh, Jim, for heaven's sakes. We'll be arrested as thieves.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

I don't think so, Fern.

[Frederico (Waiter)]

Are they all there, miss?

[Brenda Clegg]

Yes, Rodrigo. Thank you very much. Thank you, everyone.

[Fern Collier]

Jim, she didn't even miss ours.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Come back to the table, Fern.

[Fern Collier]

All right, now, would you mind explaining? I don't get this at all, Fern.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Those pearls are absolutely worthless. The whole string could be bought for 10 cents.

[Fern Collier]

Then why did she make such a fuss about getting them back?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Just an act. She didn't really count those pearls on the plate. She just pretended to. That means she broke the pearls on purpose and expected some of them to be missing.

[Fern Collier]

But why should she do that, Jim?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Well, it would be an extremely clever way to deliver a pearl or two that contained dope, wouldn't it? All the customer has to do is pick up the right pearl and put it in his pocket.

[Fern Collier]

But how would he know which pearl it was, Jim?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Well, probably a slightly different color.

[Fern Collier]

Oh, I see. When that particular pearl isn't put back on the plate, she knows it has been delivered to the proper party.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

That's it, Fern.

[Fern Collier]

Well, what are we going to do, Jim? Do we follow that girl?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

No, we can't. She's already gone. We'll check on her later. I want to get a line on her set up here. She must have an accomplice that.

[Fern Collier]

Wait a minute.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Yes, I think so. She called him by name. Well, I'll soon find out.

[Fern Collier]

There he is now. Jim.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Yes, Frederico?

[Frederico (Waiter)]

Yes, sir.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Frederico, while you're clearing off this table, I want to ask you a few questions.

[Frederico (Waiter)]

Yes, sir.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

What's the name of the girl who broke her pearls?

[Frederico (Waiter)]

I do not know a customer.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Frederico, I'm Jim Brandon of the police department. Do you prefer to talk here or at headquarters?

[Brenda Clegg]

Who?

[Frederico (Waiter)]

On what charge?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Aiding and abetting in the traffic of narcotics.

[Frederico (Waiter)]

Oh, no, no. I do nothing like that, honest. I just do what is part of my job. I need the tips.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

We'll see. What is that girl's name?

[Frederico (Waiter)]

She is Brenda Clake. She started coming here two months ago.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

How many times has she broken her pearls here?

[Frederico (Waiter)]

Four or five times.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

And you always help her to get them back?

[Frederico (Waiter)]

Yes. I ask people to put them on the plate. And that is all? She tips me well and I ask no questions.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

And she always gets all the pearls back?

[Frederico (Waiter)]

Why, yes, of course. She counts them always.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

And how do you explain these five pearls I have here in my hand? She didn't get these back.

[Frederico (Waiter)]

Why? I don't know. She counted them.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

She said.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

I heard what she said. Now, do you know where Brenda Clegg lives?

[Frederico (Waiter)]

No, I. I know nothing of her but her name and what I have told you. Maybe the doorman. Do you want me to ask.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Never mind. I'll ask him. Frederico, I don't believe you're mixed up in this, but you're going to have to prove it.

[Frederico (Waiter)]

How? How can I prove it?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

By keeping quiet about this little talk we've had and by following any future orders I may give you.

[Frederico (Waiter)]

I'll do whatever you say, Mr. Brandon.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

All right. Go about your business as usual.

[Frederico (Waiter)]

Yes, sir. I'll get back to my station.

[Fern Collier]

Well, Jim, I have to hand it to you. You've certainly hit on something here, Fern.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

We can't take a chance on this. Frederico, go call Inspector White and tell him to send someone down here to trail him right away.

[Fern Collier]

Yes, Jim.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Hurry, Fern, because we're going to call on Brenda Clegg tonight.

[Brenda Clegg]

I tell you, Smokey, that's the last time I'm going to deliver the pearls at the Club Rendezvous. It's not safe.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

Shut up, Brenda. You do what I say.

[Brenda Clegg]

Not anymore. I'm not making enough out of this to take a wrap.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

Oh, so it's the dough you're griping about. I thought so.

[Brenda Clegg]

Yes, it's the dough. I take all the chances in this racket and you and the Countess get the grade.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

Shut up. You do what I tell you and take what I pay you. Maybe you forgot. I got enough on you to send you to college for life.

[Brenda Clegg]

That goes double, Smokey. Why, if I want to turn state's evidence and expose this snowstorm you're stirring up.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

Shut up, I say. There's more where that came from if you don't keep your trap shut.

[Brenda Clegg]

You've hit me for the last time, Snooky. I'm gonna see that you get the book. I don't care what they do to me.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

You wouldn't dare squeal to the cops.

[Brenda Clegg]

Wouldn't I? I've had this on my mind for a long time.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

Drop that phone, Brenda.

[Brenda Clegg]

That rod doesn't scare me. You don't have what it takes to pull the trigger. You're yellow, Smokey. Hello, Police headquarters? I want to turn myself in and make a confession.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

All right, Brenda. This is.

[Inspector White]

Why. Jim, how did you get here so soon? Who tipped you off to this shooting?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

What shooting, Inspector? Fern and I came here looking for Brenda Clegg.

[Fern Collier]

Yes, this is where she lives, isn't it?

[Inspector White]

Well, you're a little late. Brenda Clegg was shot half an hour ago. Two bullets in the heart.

[Fern Collier]

Oh, no.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

That means it's murder. Any leads, Inspector?

[Inspector White]

One or two. She was on the phone to my office when somebody shot her up. Well, I'll pick up the trail, all right.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Maybe this information will help you. I find good reason to believe that girl was peddling dope at the Club Rendezvous tonight.

[Inspector White]

Yeah.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Listen, Inspector, we can kill two birds with one stone if we handle this right.

[Inspector White]

What do you mean, Jim?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Keep Brenda Clegg's death a secret for a few days.

[Inspector White]

Now, Jim.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

24 hours then, Inspector, we've got to give this dope ring a chance to keep Operating if we want to pull in the whole mob.

[Inspector White]

Well, I guess you're right at that, Jim. A public murder investigation might drive them undercover for months.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

You're a reasonable man, Inspector.

[Inspector White]

Meantime, I'll put everything in this apartment through the sieve.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Right. I'll check with you first thing in the morning.

[Inspector White]

Okay.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Come on, Fern. I've got to get you home. I'll have a big job for you to handle tomorrow. Now, Fernando, when you get to the club rendezvous, you'll be seated at the table where Brenda sat last night. Frederico will see to that.

[Fern Collier]

Yes, Jim, but I doubt if any of Brenda's gang will show up tonight.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

They might if they don't know Brenda is dead. And I have a feeling that our murderer isn't doing any talking.

[Fern Collier]

Well, let's hope you're right. Now, let me go over this again. Posing as a friend of Brenda's, I'm to try to find out how and where this dope ring operates.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

That's right. We found a key in Brenda's apartment that we believe to be a motorboat key. Now, that might mean that the dope is picked up from a ship. Or it may merely mean that it's hidden somewhere off the mainland. Try to find that out.

[Fern Collier]

All right, Jim, I'll do my best.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

The inspector will have men stationed outside the club. And Frederico will keep an eye on you while you're inside. Now, put on your pearls and you're ready to go.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

And now, back to the Avenger and the Blue Pearl.

[Brenda Clegg]

Young lady, there must be some mistake. His table is reserved.

[Fern Collier]

Yes, I know. I have an appointment to meet Brenda Clegg here.

[Brenda Clegg]

Oh, I see. Then I suppose we should introduce ourselves. I also have an appointment with Brenda and the Countess Calstro.

[Fern Collier]

Oh, how do you do? My name's Vern Kalia.

[Brenda Clegg]

It's a pleasure. I don't believe I've ever seen you with Brenda. Do you know her well?

[Fern Collier]

Oh, yes.

[Brenda Clegg]

You'll pardon My prudence, Ms. Collier, but as a sort of credential, would you mind telling me Brenda's address? Certainly.

[Fern Collier]

It's 105 Hillcrest Boulevard.

[Brenda Clegg]

Thank you. One cannot be too careful.

[Fern Collier]

I understand, Calvin. Perhaps you would also be interested in knowing that Brenda and I have a mutual fondness for girls. I thought so. And we've taken several trips in her motorboat. Really?

[Brenda Clegg]

To the island?

[Fern Collier]

Yes.

[Brenda Clegg]

I am surprised. I was not aware that Brenda had ever taken anyone to Lark Island.

[Fern Collier]

I wonder what could be keeping Brenda. She's late. I'm getting worried.

[Brenda Clegg]

You're Nervous, Miss Carter?

[Fern Collier]

Yes. Well, I hope Brenda won't let me down.

[Brenda Clegg]

You came here for a blue pearl, did you not?

[Fern Collier]

Yes. And if Brenda doesn't show up, I don't know what I'll do.

[Brenda Clegg]

Don't worry, my dear. I can help you.

[Fern Collier]

You can?

[Brenda Clegg]

Yes. I have some blue pearls of my own I would be willing to sell you for a fair price. But we will wait for another half hour. Brenda may show up by then.

[Fern Collier]

Do you suppose something could have gone wrong, Countess?

[Brenda Clegg]

I don't think so. However, we will not wait for Brenda any longer. Come with me.

[Fern Collier]

May I ask where we are going? Surely you do not keep such valuables in your apartment?

[Brenda Clegg]

No, not in my home. I have another place. Come, my dear. Just a moment.

[Fern Collier]

I'll take care of the check. Frederico.

[Frederico (Waiter)]

Yes, miss?

[Fern Collier]

Check, please, Frederico. I'll sign it, of course.

[Frederico (Waiter)]

Sign on the bottom line, please.

[Fern Collier]

Yes. There you are. Oh. Oh, Frederico.

[Frederico (Waiter)]

Yes, miss?

[Fern Collier]

If Brenda Clegg comes in later, tell her I left with Countess Castro. Good night.

[Brenda Clegg]

Ms. Collier. Keep your eye on that black sedan behind us. I think we're being followed.

[Fern Collier]

Oh, surely not, Countess. Why should we be?

[Brenda Clegg]

I don't know, but in this business one can never tell. Yes, I'm sure of it. Now. That car is following us.

[Fern Collier]

What are you going to do?

[Brenda Clegg]

Listen carefully. In a moment I'll put on speed and turn up Lakemont Avenue. I'll pull up quickly in front of a certain small apartment house there. When we get in the lobby, help me press all the doorbells there. And someone is certain to push the door buzzer to let us in. Got that?

[Fern Collier]

Yes. But whoever is following us will know where we went. Your car will be outside the house.

[Brenda Clegg]

There's a back door at the end of the hole in that apartment house. We go straight through, come out in the alley in the back, turn left and run for a taxi on the other side of the block. We can make a clean getaway if we are lucky. Here we are. Hurry. Quick. Help me press all these bells.

[Fern Collier]

Yes. What if no one answers?

[Brenda Clegg]

There. Open the door. Did I tell you? Run for the door in the back.

[Fern Collier]

But what if it's locked?

[Brenda Clegg]

It never is. Hurry. You'll see. We've given them this slip. Now for a taxi. Come on, Smocky. What in the world are you doing here?

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

Hiding out, Countess.

[Brenda Clegg]

Hiding out? What for? Are the cops on to us?

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

Hold it a minute. Who's your girlfriend, Countess?

[Brenda Clegg]

A friend of Brenda's. She wants to buy some blue pearls. Smokey, put that gun away. What's the matter with you?

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

This dame's no friend of Brenda's.

[Brenda Clegg]

How do you know? She says she's been to the island with Brenda.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

That's a lie. Brenda never went to the island except when I took her. This dame's no snowbird. She's a plant.

[Fern Collier]

There's one way to settle it. Why don't you call Brenda and ask her?

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

Because Brenda can't answer and you know it. You're from the cops and you know Brenda's dead.

[Brenda Clegg]

Brenda's dead, Smokey. What are you saying, Countess?

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

I killed Brenda last night. I had to. She was going to turn us all in.

[Brenda Clegg]

You are a fool, Smokey. You have ruined everything.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

Ah, shut up, Countess. You haven't made such a good showing tonight yourself.

[Brenda Clegg]

Well, what are we going to do?

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

A snowboat is scheduled to pull in at the island early tomorrow morning to deliver a shipment. We just hop aboard and get out of the country.

[Brenda Clegg]

What about this girl? What will we do with her?

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

I'll take care of her right now.

[Brenda Clegg]

No, no, Smoky, you cannot shoot her Here. Use your head.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

Well, we could just as easy drop her in a bay on her way to the island.

[Brenda Clegg]

That's it. Tie her up and gag her.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

No, no, don't take the gun, Countess. Keep her covered while I tie her up. Nice and tidy.

[Brenda Clegg]

Hurry, Smoky. I must start for the island right away.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

Have you got your motorboat key, Countess? I forgot mine at Brenda's place. That's why I couldn't hit for the island last night.

[Brenda Clegg]

Yes, I have mine in my purse and I have a car in the basement garage.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

Okay. We're as good as out of the country right now.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Well, Inspector, what do your men report?

[Inspector White]

Well, nothing new, Jim. We know that Fern and the Countess went straight through that apartment house on Lakemont Avenue. But they left a cold trail after that.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Keep trying, Inspector.

[Inspector White]

Don't worry, Jim, I will. I have the whole force working on this.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

I've just come from the Rendezvous Club and Frederico gave me a lead that I'm going to work on right now.

[Inspector White]

Can I help you, Jim?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Yes, Inspector. Give me that key you found in Brenda Clegg's apartment. The one we thought might be a motorboat key.

[Inspector White]

Sure, Jim. I've got that stuff here in the safe. I'll get it. Want some of my men to go with you?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

No, Inspector, I'll handle this myself.

[Inspector White]

Be careful. Now, Jim, don't do anything crazy. We'll find Fern all right.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Oh, I should never have let her go to that club, Inspector. This whole thing Is my fault?

[Inspector White]

No, no. My men bungle this badly, Jim, and I'm willing to admit it, they weren't quite up to the tricks of that Countess.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Well, I asked for 24 hours to wrap up this case, Inspector. I've still got two hours to go on that.

[Inspector White]

Well, here's the key, Jim.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Oh, thanks, Inspector. Stay close to the phone for the next two hours, will you? I'm going to try to close this case on schedule.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

Well, we made it, Countess.

[Brenda Clegg]

Yes. Wait a minute, Smokey. What are we going to do about this car? We can't leave it here. The police would spot it before morning.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

Say, I never thought of that. This car would sure tip him off to where we went. All right.

[Brenda Clegg]

Well, start thinking. What can we do with it?

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

I got it. I'll send it over the end of the pier. The water out there is deep enough to cover it.

[Brenda Clegg]

Good idea.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

All right, get out. We'll put this dame in the motorboat first. Come on, sister, this is the end of the line for you.

[Brenda Clegg]

Here's the boat, Smokey. Hurry up.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

This dame's a wildcat kicking like a.

[Brenda Clegg]

Steel down there in the bow.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

I'll be glad when we're rid of her.

[Brenda Clegg]

Now send that car over quick.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

Not so fast, Countess. I'll take the key to the boat, if you don't mind.

[Brenda Clegg]

You. You do not trust me, Smokey?

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

No. After the things I've seen you pull, I know you're counting on me pulling out and leaving me here waving on the dock.

[Brenda Clegg]

Here, then take the key. But hurry.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

I'll be right back. I'll get rid of this car in a minute.

[Brenda Clegg]

Stupid fool. I will think of a way to get rid of you later.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

Well, that's that. Now we're ready.

[Brenda Clegg]

Smokey. What was that noise?

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

I don't know, but I'm not investigating. Let's get this motor running.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

I don't think you'll take that little trip to Long Island, Smokey.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

Who said that? Where did that voice come from?

[Brenda Clegg]

There's no one in the boat. Pull out, quick.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

Will you take this gun, Countess? You see anybody on that dock, don't stop shooting until it's empty.

[Brenda Clegg]

There's nobody there, Smokey.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

I'm here, Countess.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

And there goes your gun into the water.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

What is this?

[Brenda Clegg]

Who are you? What do you want?

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

I'm the Avenger, Countess. The Avenger. Take the wheel, Countess. I'll find him.

[Brenda Clegg]

Yes. Yes, Smoky. The voice came from the back of the boat.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

I'll throw him overboard. Nobody's gonna stop us now. I'm going to stop you, Smoky. Like this.

[Brenda Clegg]

Smoky. Smoky, get up.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

He's out cold, Countess.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Now turn the boat around and make for the dock. Unless you prefer to swim back.

[Brenda Clegg]

No, no, I will do as you.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Say and make it fast. We've got a deadline to meet.

[Fern Collier]

Well, Jim, did that boat pull into Loch island on schedule this morning?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

It certainly did, Fern. And the whole narcotic squad was there to meet it.

[Fern Collier]

I suppose the inspector's having a wonderful time down at headquarters bringing charges against everybody.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Well, that's right, Fern, and you can't blame him. This is quite a feather in his cap.

[Fern Collier]

How long had that dope ring been operating in this city, Jim?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Only two months, Fern. And the inspectors got the whole tribe in jail. That's fast work.

[Fern Collier]

And don't forget, Smokey, there's a charge of murder against him.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Don't worry, the Countess isn't letting him forget it. She's talking her head off.

[Fern Collier]

I thought she would.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Well, Fern, since you risked your life to crack this case, I thought you might like to take a look at exhibit A. Jim.

[Fern Collier]

A blue pearl.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Yes. Here, look. The shell of the bead is made of wax and tinted blue. Just enough coloring for a discerning eye to distinguish it from an ordinary pearl.

[Fern Collier]

Then this bead was strung on a necklace with other cheap pearls of the same size?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Exactly. Then it could be delivered at a certain time and place merely by breaking the beads.

[Fern Collier]

Vern de Clegg broke a pearl's just once too often.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Yes. Brenda was the weak link in this chain of crime.

[Fern Collier]

Jim, what about Frederico the waiter? Will he be prosecuted? You know, I really owe my life to him. If he hadn't delivered my message to you, I'd be at the bottom of the bay now.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

All the help he gave us will be considered when his case comes up. And by the way, I want to congratulate you on the way you got that message to me, Fern, signing Loch island instead of your name on that check and the club was quick thinking.

[Fern Collier]

Thanks, Jim. Maybe if I stick around long enough, you will make a real detective out of me.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

I don't know whether I'd like that or not, Vern. Real detectives are supposed to have long noses and big ears.

[Fern Collier]

They are. Then you're an impostor, Mr. Brandon. Your ears may be a little big, but you've got an awful pretty nose.

[Narrator (The Avenger Introduction and Closing)]

All characters, names, places and plots used in the Avenger program are fictitious. Any similarity to persons living or dead is purely coincidental. This is a thought. A thought? A thought. Remember. Listen for another adventure of the Avenger.