The Avenger - Ghost Murder

Summary

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Podcast Summary: The Avenger – Ghost Murder

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: The Avenger – Ghost Murder
Date: March 16, 2026
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio

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Episode Overview

This episode revives a classic radio drama from the "Golden Age" of radio, featuring "The Avenger," a biochemist-turned-crimefighter named Jim Brandon. In this installment, Brandon uses science and skepticism to expose supernatural hoaxes—all while solving a murder that takes place amidst a supposed ghostly manifestation at a séance. Blending elements of mystery, pseudo-science, and old-fashioned radio theatrics, "Ghost Murder" explores the dangers of deception and the ingenuity required to uncover truth.

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Key Discussion Points & Storyline Breakdown

1. Introduction of Characters and Premise

• Jim Brandon/The Avenger: Scientist fighting crime with the help of his inventions: a telepathic indicator and an invisibility capsule.
• Fern Collier: Trusted assistant, privy to Brandon’s secrets.
• Princess Stella: Renowned medium, orchestrating séances with aide Claude Jordan.
• Professor Gans & Dr. Strong: Esteemed judges called to verify supernatural claims for the Rollins Prize.

(See 02:14–02:49)

“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." – Narrator (02:17)

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2. The Séance and the Prize

• Princess Stella aims to win a $50,000 prize offered for a genuine spiritual manifestation.
• Jordan tries to bribe Jim Brandon to endorse Stella as a legitimate medium—he refuses, firmly drawing a line between science and trickery.

(See 05:55–08:24)

"My telepathic experiments have to do with the concentrated thought waves of the living. That is a science. But Princess Stella is a very clever actress, no doubt. No sell, Jordan.” – Jim Brandon (07:00)

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3. Investigating the Séance Room

• The judges and Brandon meticulously search the séance room for wires or trickery: all furnishings are metallic, with nothing concealed. However, Brandon notices the peculiarity of four radiators.
• Séance commences; a ghostly mist appears. Despite scientific scrutiny, the manifestation cannot immediately be explained.

(See 11:41–14:18)

"There doesn't seem to be a trace of anything to mark the passage of that ghost." – Jim Brandon (14:07)

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4. Tension, Rivalries, and Suspicions

• Gans and Strong’s rivalry comes to the fore; suspicions mount regarding Princess Stella’s and Jordan’s real identities—Gans hints at their shady past as the “Countess and the Clown,” possible fugitives from justice.

(See 15:28–16:05)

“I'm rather certain that the Countess and the clown are fugitives from justice.” – Professor Gans (16:05)

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5. The Second Séance and Murder

• During the repeat séance, another ghostly figure manifests. As lights come up, Professor Gans is found dead from a dagger wound, despite the unbroken circle among the participants. The murder appears impossible.

(See 19:45–21:36)

“Don’t touch him, Strong.”
“Look closely. There’s a small dagger below his heart.” — Jim Brandon (21:32)

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6. Doubting the Supernatural and Unmasking the Trick

• Forensics reveal nothing conclusive about the dagger. Fern is nearly convinced it was a ghost—but Brandon explains the ghost was mere vapor: a combination of muriatic acid and ammonia released from fake radiators, timed and enhanced by ventriloquism.

(See 23:08–24:22)

“What we saw was nothing more than a clever mixture of muriatic acid and ammonia vapor released through tiny holes in the dummy radiator.” – Jim Brandon (23:36)

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7. Unraveling the Murder Mechanism

• The team suspects Jordan or Stella, especially when Fern notices Jordan’s missing socks—an odd detail.
• The climax reveals that Jordan, skilled in French savate (foot-boxing), used a contraption attached to his leg to kill Gans with a dagger fired by his foot, while the ghost ruse and darkness diverted attention.

(See 31:06–31:42)

“That little bow and arrow fastened to Jordan's leg could be set, aimed, and released by his other foot.” – Fern Collier (31:36)

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8. Motive and Justice

• Gans’ motive for exposing Stella and Jordan: he remembered their involvement in a murder from Vienna twenty years prior, threatening their scam.
• Jordan is exposed, evidence found, and the police are summoned.

(See 32:01–32:20)

“Jordan was mixed up in a killing in Vienna about 20 years ago … He intended to expose Jordan after the seance that day. And Jordan knew it.” – Jim Brandon (32:07)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “You mean you're going to fight us? … In a way, yes. You see, I promised Neil Hayden, the Rollins lawyer, to act as a judge when Princess Stella puts in her bid for the prize.” – Jim Brandon (07:28)
• “There are four radiators, two at each end.” – Jim Brandon (12:44)
• “Jim, up until now, I'd never believed in ghosts. But no living person in that room could have thrown that dagger. No one broke the circle for a second.” – Fern Collier (23:16)
• “It was nothing more than a clever mixture of muriatic acid and ammonia vapor… released from the radiator.” – Jim Brandon (23:36)
• “That little bow and arrow fastened to Jordan’s leg could be set, aimed and released by his other foot.” – Fern Collier (31:36)
• “Oh, pun, Ms. Collier. That some would call a very murderous weapon.” – Jim Brandon (32:26)

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• [02:14] – Recap of The Avenger’s inventions & identity
• [05:55] – Jordan offers bribe; Brandon refuses
• [11:41] – Judges inspect séance room
• [13:19] – First séance and unexplained ghostly appearance
• [15:28] – Gans questions Jordan about his past
• [19:45] – Second séance setup; ghost reappears
• [21:29] – Discovery of Gans’ murder
• [23:08] – Scientific reveal: how the ghost illusion worked
• [31:06] – How the murder was committed: bow and arrow with feet
• [32:07] – Motive revealed: past crime in Vienna
• [32:26] – Witty closing banter

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Tone & Style

Faithful to the atmospheric, melodramatic, and brisk style of vintage radio drama, the episode mixes earnest deduction, campy dialogue, and a playful yet suspenseful approach to both detective work and debunking supernatural claims. The interplay between Fern and Jim provides comic relief and a lighthearted counterbalance to the story's criminal undertones.

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Conclusion

“Ghost Murder” delivers all the hallmarks of a classic radio whodunit: a locked-room mystery, scientific sleuthing, theatrical deceptions, and wry repartee. It lampoons supernatural charlatanism while celebrating the rational detective spirit. The episode is satisfying for both nostalgia lovers and mystery fans, illustrating how not even the most elaborate ghost story can outwit sharp eyes and sharper science.

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Transcript

[Narrator/Announcer]

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[Narrator/Storyteller]

The Avenger.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

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

[Fern Collier]

It's ram.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

The Avenger, Sworn enemy of evil is actually Jim Brandon, a famous biochemist. Through his numerous scientific experiments, Brandon has perfected two inventions to aid him in his crusade against crime. 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 ghost.

[Claude Jordan]

Murder.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

At the end of a long table in her darkened seance room, Princess Stella, the renowned mystic, sits motionless. Opposite her, a man leans forward, nervous and expectant. Suddenly, out of nowhere, a swirling spiral of white mist appears, takes shape, and from it comes a ghostly voice.

[Princess Stella]

I am the spirit of Martha, your wife. Horrors do not sell our heart. We were so happy there. It holds many memories still dear to me. Keep the house, Horace. Keep it. Now I must leave you. But I will come again.

[Professor Gans]

I will return.

[Princess Stella]

I will return.

[Professor Gans]

Martha. Martha, don't leave me. Come back. Martha.

[Princess Stella]

She's gone.

[Professor Gans]

Princess Stella. Call her back. Call Martha back. Princess Stella, wake up. Wake up. Help.

[Princess Stella]

Help.

[Claude Jordan]

What's the matter? What's the matter? What happened?

[Professor Gans]

It's the princess. I can't wake her.

[Claude Jordan]

Don't be alarmed. I'll turn up the lights. She must have had a manifestation. It always affects her this way. Yes.

[Professor Gans]

She brought my wife back.

[Claude Jordan]

Princess, wake up. Princess Stella. She'll come out of it in a minute. Princess, wake up.

[Princess Stella]

What? What is it? Oh, it's you, Mr. Jordan.

[Claude Jordan]

Yes. Are you all right? Princess? You frightened your client.

[Princess Stella]

Oh, I'm so sorry. Was a seance a success?

[Claude Jordan]

Yes. You recalled another spirit for a lonely soul.

[Professor Gans]

Princess, I saw my wife. She spoke to me.

[Princess Stella]

I'm glad.

[Claude Jordan]

I think we'd better leave the princess alone now. She must rest.

[Professor Gans]

Of course.

[Claude Jordan]

This way.

[Princess Stella]

Well, how much did he pay you, Jordan?

[Claude Jordan]

$50. Stella. Pennies now, Stella.

[Princess Stella]

Well, I'm getting sick of going through this routine day after day for that kind of money.

[Claude Jordan]

You promised me patience, Stella. I told you that before long we'd be cleaning up. Well, I meant it.

[Princess Stella]

Well, you'd better pull something out of the hat or I'll retire. And then where will you be joining?

[Claude Jordan]

No, Stella, that's no way to talk. After all I've done for you.

[Princess Stella]

After all you've done for me?

[Claude Jordan]

Shut up. There's a woman in the waiting room. You get to see her now.

[Princess Stella]

Yeah, well, she's in for a disappointment. I've had enough of ghosts today.

[Claude Jordan]

You get to see her and talk to her at least. Ah, well, all right, I'll bring her in then. I have to leave. I have an appointment uptown with a fellow by the name of Brandon.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Mr. Jordan. What can I do for you?

[Claude Jordan]

Mr. Brandon? I represent Princess Stella, the mystic. No doubt you've heard of her.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Yes, I have.

[Claude Jordan]

Well, Princess Stella is going to try for that $50,000 prize the Rollins estate is offering for a genuine manifestation.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Isn't that rather a waste of the princess time, Mr. Jordan?

[Claude Jordan]

What do you mean?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Well, so far every medium who has tried for that prize has failed completely. Every so called manifestation was promptly exposed as a hoax.

[Claude Jordan]

More, Princess Stella is in a class by herself. Those others were charlatans. Prince Estella is a true psychic. A genuine. A genuine spirit medium.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Mr. Jordan, suppose you come to the point. What brought you here to see me?

[Claude Jordan]

You may be a scientist, Mr. Brandon, yet I feel that some of your ideas may be in sympathy with those of the Princess.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Why?

[Claude Jordan]

Well, you've written some brilliant articles about your experiments in the field of mental telepathy. So I thought you might be interested in endorsing Princess Stella as a medium. Your word would go a long way in helping.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Just a minute, Jordan. Let's clarify our terms. My telepathic experiments have to do with the concentrated thought waves of the living. That is a science. But Princess Stella is a very clever actress, no doubt. No sell. Jordan.

[Claude Jordan]

If we win the Rollins Prize, we're willing to cut you in for 10%.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

No, thank you. I'm not interested. As a matter of fact, I'm on the other side of the fence completely.

[Claude Jordan]

You mean you're going to fight us?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

In a way, yes. You see, I promised Neil Hayden, the Rollins lawyer, to act as a judge when Princess Stella puts in her bid for the prize.

[Claude Jordan]

You what?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

I'm willing to give your client a fair enough chance. If Princess Stella really can produce a ghost I'm sure the whole scientific world will sit up and take notice.

[Claude Jordan]

Well, thanks for being such a sport about it, Brandon. I think you understand my position. Even a true artist needs a little. A little clever exploitation.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Yes, that seems to be a generally accepted idea.

[Claude Jordan]

Anyway, I feel we'll get a square deal from you, Brandon.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

I'm merely interested in keeping things in their proper places. Jordan. I think Princess Stella's so called manifestations belong strictly in the field of entertainment. Not to be confused in any way with any branch of science.

[Claude Jordan]

Perhaps the Princess can convert you. Well, I won't take up any more of your time. I'll see you at the seance next Thursday, Right?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

I'm looking forward to it.

[Claude Jordan]

I can find my way out. Thanks for the interview.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Not at all. Goodbye.

[Fern Collier]

Well, of all the nerve, trying to offer you a bribe, Jim. That's the limit. I don't see how you kept your temper, Fern.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Jordan is playing for pig stakes and he's not the sort to leave any stone unturned.

[Fern Collier]

Well, I don't trust a man like that. He's not only too glib, but too well dressed.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

He's a dandy, all right. Did you notice the spats?

[Fern Collier]

How could I miss them, Jim, I didn't know you'd been asked to be a judge at this thing.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Yes, Prince Estella is by far the cleverest medium to try for the prize. And Neil Hayden isn't going to take any chances of being duped in carrying out the extraordinary terms of the Rollins will.

[Fern Collier]

Who are the other judges, Jim?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

You've met them both, Professor Gans and Dr. Strong.

[Fern Collier]

Princess Stella isn't going to have an easy time of it.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

No. Even though Gans and Strong are constantly at odds, they'll probably agree this once that Princess Stella is a colossal fake.

[Fern Collier]

Jim, can you arrange for me to go to the seance? I don't believe in ghosts, but I would.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

But you'd like to see one, huh?

[Fern Collier]

Well, yes. I'd like to see what passes for a ghost.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

All right, Fern, but in the meantime we have a great deal of research to do.

[Fern Collier]

What kind of research, Jim?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

We're going to look into all the tricks that mediums use, all the accoutrements that the earthly ghost is heir to. The blaring horns and trumpets, the moving tables and the tilting chairs, and all known devices that have ever passed for ghosts.

[Fern Collier]

Sounds interesting. Jim.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

We mustn't underestimate Princess Stella Fearne. This seance will be a kind of challenge. And we can't let science take a

[Narrator/Storyteller]

back Se,

[Narrator/Announcer]

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[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

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[Narrator/Announcer]

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[Fern Collier]

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[Princess Stella]

I don't really need it.

[Claude Jordan]

Inflation is killing me.

[Professor Gans]

But who cares? Big retailers are making record profits. That's why we support the Durbin Marshall credit card bill.

[Fern Collier]

See, banks and credit unions help small businesses make payroll. This bill would cut the vital resources

[Professor Gans]

they need while increasing megastore profits. They deserve it, don't they?

[Fern Collier]

Tell Congress, stop the Durbin Marshall money grab for corporate megastores paid for by

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

the Electronic Payments Coalition.

[Professor Gans]

You're late, Brandon. Strong and I have finished with that side of the room. Nothing unusual there.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

You don't mind if Fern and I have a look, Professor Ganz?

[Professor Gans]

Well, if you're not willing to take our word for it.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Go ahead, Brandon. There's plenty of time.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Thanks, Strong. This way, Fern.

[Fern Collier]

So this is what a seance room looks like. I always thought they were done in black velvet. This one's completely in white.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Yes, the princess knows the value of contrast. She's a showman. All right, now for the inventory. White painted walls, white rug that completely covers the floor. Eight straight back white chairs. Help me examine them, Fern.

[Fern Collier]

Right, Jim.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

They're all metal. No false bottoms.

[Fern Collier]

Nothing could be hidden in these chairs.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Let's take the table next.

[Claude Jordan]

It's.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Hmm. That's all metal, too. Examine the legs, Fern.

[Fern Collier]

They're single strips of metal, Jim. Nothing there.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Nothing under the rug, Jim.

[Fern Collier]

There's no place to hide any ghosts in this room.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Certainly doesn't look that Way. No windows. In fact, there's only one thing about this entire room that strikes me as a little odd.

[Fern Collier]

What's that, Jim?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

There are four radiators, two at each end.

[Fern Collier]

Well, this is a very large room. In cold weather. I imagine all four of them are needed.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

They're all cold today.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Are you ready, Brandon?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Yes. Strong? I think so. Just one other thing. Did you and Ganz go over the room for hidden wires?

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Yes. We covered the walls and floor with a detector.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Guess that takes care of everything. Then I'll tell Jordan we're ready to begin the seance.

[Princess Stella]

Who calls me? Who calls me from my spirit world?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Quick, Gans, put your flashlight on that corner. There's someone there.

[Fern Collier]

Yes, Jim, look. Something white floating there near the wall. It's a ghost.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

I see it.

[Professor Gans]

Fern, turn on the lights.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

There's something there.

[Claude Jordan]

All right, I'll do it.

[Professor Gans]

Hurry, Jordan. It's gone.

[Fern Collier]

Good heavens, Jim, it must have been a ghost. Look at the Princess Stella. She's in a trance.

[Professor Gans]

Wake up the princess, Jordan. Wake her up.

[Claude Jordan]

Of course, Princess Stella. Princess, wake up.

[Fern Collier]

Oh, gosh, Jim, this is more than I bargained for.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

She's coming, too.

[Princess Stella]

What happened?

[Professor Gans]

Brandon Strong, help me examine this end of the room thoroughly. This sort of thing just isn't possible.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

That was the strangest thing I ever saw.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

A truly wonderful performance. There doesn't seem to be a trace of anything to mark the passage of that ghost.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Well, fellow scientists, what are we going to do? If we can't explain this manifestation, we have to award the prize to Prince Estella.

[Professor Gans]

Not so fast, Strong.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Well, what do you suggest, Gans?

[Professor Gans]

I don't know. What do you think, Brandon?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

There's no denying it. We saw the ghost, and it's up to us to explain exactly what it was and where it came from. I think we'd better call for a repeat performance.

[Professor Gans]

Right. I'll tell Jordan. Jordan. Jordan, come over here.

[Claude Jordan]

Yes, yes, what is it, Professor?

[Professor Gans]

Gas. We're not convinced, Jordan. We're calling for another seance.

[Princess Stella]

No, no, I cannot. I am exhausted. I cannot.

[Claude Jordan]

Princess, the judges are within their rights. The terms of the will stipulate that two tests may be demanded.

[Princess Stella]

Oh, I am faint. I cannot go through all this again.

[Claude Jordan]

Gentlemen. The princess is nervous and upset. Could we postpone the second seance until tomorrow?

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Well, I don't see why not. What do you say, Brandon?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

I think that's an excellent idea. Are you agreed, Gans?

[Professor Gans]

Yes, in fact, I prefer that. I've just remembered something that may prove helpful to us. I'll need a little time to check on it.

[Claude Jordan]

We'll meet tomorrow then.

[Professor Gans]

Yes, Jordan. However, I'd like to speak to you privately for a few moments now.

[Claude Jordan]

Certainly. Come into the other room. This way, at least. Now, Professor Gans. What is it?

[Professor Gans]

Have you and the Princess traveled much abroad?

[Claude Jordan]

Yes, widely.

[Professor Gans]

About 20 years ago. Did you bill yourselves as the Countess and the Clown?

[Claude Jordan]

Why, no. That must have been someone else. Why do you ask?

[Professor Gans]

They were a popular carnival act in Austria when I was teaching there. Something about you two reminded me of them.

[Claude Jordan]

Well, the Princess and I are not exactly a vaudeville team, Professor.

[Professor Gans]

I wonder what became of that act. I must find out before the seance tomorrow.

[Claude Jordan]

Really, professor, what can that have to do with Princess Stella and the Rollins prize money?

[Professor Gans]

It may have everything to do with it, Jordan. I'm rather certain that the Countess and the clown are fugitives from justice.

[Fern Collier]

It's sam.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

And now back to the Avenger and the Ghost murder.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Fern, we can't let Princess Stella get away with this ghost business. There's got to be an answer here in the seance room. Examine that radiator, Fern. I'll take this one.

[Fern Collier]

This one's cold, Jim.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

That's strange. This one is warm. Turn the valve, Fern. Maybe the heat's turned off. Okay, I'll see about the other radiators.

[Fern Collier]

Right, Jim.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Fern, one of these radiators is warm and one is cold.

[Fern Collier]

What do you make of it, Jim?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Don't know yet. I turned the heat on. We'll give them a chance to warm up.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Even though we never held the same ideas, Gans, I never thought you'd deliberately oppose me in a thing like this. I had it on good authority that your vote was the only one against me.

[Professor Gans]

I admit it, Strong. I don't think you're fitted to be head of a research foundation. Such a position requires an older man, wide experience.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Like yourself. I suppose so. That was the reason for it. You want the position yourself.

[Professor Gans]

Now, listen here, Strong. Mind your tongue.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

What's the trouble, Brandon? Professor Ganz blackballed me. I'd have been elected head of the Lansdowne foundation. If it hadn't been for him and his petty personal ambassador.

[Professor Gans]

This is a matter between you and me, Strong. Let's keep it that way. I voted in good faith for what I believe to be the good of the Foundation.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Your day is coming, Gans. I'll get you for this.

[Claude Jordan]

Are you gentlemen ready to begin? Everyone is waiting.

[Professor Gans]

Well, Jordan, I see you've decided to brazen it out.

[Claude Jordan]

If you have anything to say to me, Professor Gans. Say it in private.

[Professor Gans]

I'm afraid that won't be possible. My news will be of interest to the public, but I've decided to let you put your show on first. My news can wait.

[Claude Jordan]

I'll call everyone in then.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Just a moment. Princess Stella, will you sit at this end of the table today?

[Princess Stella]

Very well, Mr. Brandon. It makes no difference to me.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Thank you. Turn out the lights, Jordan. I'll keep my flashlight on you. All right, now take your place in the circle. And everyone join hands. Hayden will hold my right wrist so that my hand will be free to turn on this flashlight in an instant. There. Are you ready, Princess?

[Princess Stella]

I am ready. I call upon some friendly spirit. Let my voice penetrate these walls and travel on wings of wind. Out there in the vast unknown, I seek a friend, a lonely, unhappy spirit. I would call you back from the dark, lost valley of the beyond. Come, spirit. Manifest thyself. The veil is lifting. The boundary between the living and the dead is not a barrier. It is but a frail cloud of mortal man's uncertainty. Come, kind spirit. Appear.

[Fern Collier]

Appear.

[Princess Stella]

The spirit approaches.

[Fern Collier]

There it is. In the corner. A ghost.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

It's there. All right. Keep your hands joined, everyone. I'll turn on the lights.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Hurry, Brandon. It's already disappearing.

[Fern Collier]

It's gone. Jim, look. Professor Gans. He must have fainted.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Help me, Brandon. We'll get him out of here.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Don't touch him. Strong.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Why not?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Look closely. There's a small dagger below his heart.

[Claude Jordan]

What?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Professor Ganz is dead. The sun's shining, birds are singing, and all feels right in the world.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Until the season changes and suddenly you

[Narrator/Announcer]

lose your motivation to get out of bed.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

In fact, one in five people experience some form of depression, no matter the season or time of year.

[Fern Collier]

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[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

vision is to build a mentally healthy nation for all, because we want you to live your best life and be your best you all year round.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

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[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Well, the police have confirmed my suspicions, Vern. Professor Ganz was killed by a poison dagger.

[Fern Collier]

Any prints on it?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

It was too smudged to be of any value.

[Fern Collier]

Jim, up until now, I'd never believed in ghosts. But you'll have to admit that no living person in that room could have thrown that dagger. No one broke the circle for a second.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

So you're willing to pin this murder on a ghost?

[Fern Collier]

Well, how do you explain it, then?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

The ghost is the only one that we can rule out. Because, you see, there wasn't any ghost.

[Fern Collier]

There wasn't any. But, Jim, we saw it twice.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

What we saw was nothing more than a clever mixture of muriatic acid and ammonia vapor released through tiny holes in the dummy radiator. One radiator at each end of the room was a dummy.

[Fern Collier]

But how did the ghost disappear so quickly?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

The gas was operated by an automatic pressure gauge in the basement. It was timed to last for 10 seconds. And that spiral whirling effect was due to the intermittent release of air, which circulated about the vapor. At the end of 10 seconds, the whole thing was dissolved by a very light spray of ammonia and water, also released from the radiator.

[Fern Collier]

Gosh, I almost believed in that ghost. Especially after you place Princess Stella at the opposite end of the table for the second seance.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

That's why they had two sets of radiators in that room. Just in case a skeptic made a request like that.

[Fern Collier]

But what of the voice, Jim? It didn't come from anyone in the room. It came from the ghost.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Well, that's easy. Princess Stella is an accomplishment. Ventriloquist.

[Fern Collier]

Well, there goes my ghost story. Right up the chimney. Or I should say, right down the radiator.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Fern, I don't want any of this revealed until we know who murdered Gens.

[Fern Collier]

All right, Jim, but I don't see how we're ever going to find that out.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

At the moment, neither do I, but we'll keep trying.

[Fern Collier]

Is the inspector still questioning Jordan Strong and the princess?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Yes, but we'll have to let them go for lack of evidence.

[Fern Collier]

I wonder if Jordan had time to put on his socks before he went to headquarters.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

His socks?

[Fern Collier]

Yes, our fashion plate disillusioned me. He appeared at that last seance without any socks.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Well, Fern, get your coat. We're going to the gymnasium.

[Fern Collier]

Whatever for, Jim?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

I'm interested in seeing a little professional boxing. I've often heard those French savate boxes are something to see.

[Claude Jordan]

Stella, what are you doing?

[Princess Stella]

I'm packing, Jordan. I'm gonna pull out.

[Claude Jordan]

Don't be a fool, Stella. We are under bond. You've got to stay here and stick things out.

[Princess Stella]

You suit yourself. I'm leaving.

[Claude Jordan]

Now listen to me, Stella. We still have a chance to pull through all this and win that $50,000 prize. You've got to go through with that seance today.

[Princess Stella]

If we stay here, we'll wind up in jail. No matter how the seance turns out.

[Claude Jordan]

What are you getting at? The police have no evidence against us. Strong was the only one with a motive for killing Gans. We're in the clear.

[Princess Stella]

You're wrong, Jordan. Jim Brandon knows we had a motive for killing Gans.

[Claude Jordan]

Brandon? How could he know anything?

[Princess Stella]

I heard the inspector tell Brandon to search Ganz apartment. Since Gans knows who we were and all about the trouble that you got us into in Vienna, he must have had some proof of it. Brandon has that proof now, and he's just waiting for the proper time to use it.

[Claude Jordan]

That does put us in a spot.

[Princess Stella]

We've got to get out of here. Jordan, I'm afraid.

[Claude Jordan]

What are you afraid of, Stella? Did you kill Gan?

[Princess Stella]

How dare you say that.

[Claude Jordan]

Take it easy, Stella. Listen, I'll make a deal with you. If you'll stay here and go through with this seance, I promise you have nothing to fear from Brandon.

[Princess Stella]

What are you talking about, Jordan? You wouldn't try.

[Claude Jordan]

Don't worry about what Brandon knows, that's all. Is it a deal?

[Princess Stella]

I don't know. How do I know I'm not next on the murders list?

[Claude Jordan]

You're being hysterical. Now, come on now. Get things ready for your performance. You make it a good one, Stella. We'll be on easy street.

[Fern Collier]

Well, Mr. Jordan, may I speak with you a moment?

[Claude Jordan]

Of course, Ms. Collier. What is it?

[Fern Collier]

Well, Mr. Brandon is busy at police headquarters and won't be able to get here for the seance.

[Claude Jordan]

But. But he must. This is the final test for the price.

[Fern Collier]

You're to go on with the seance as usual. It is understood that if you convince Strong and Hayden that Princess Stella has brought about a genuine manifestation, the prize is hers.

[Claude Jordan]

All right.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

I'll call the prince.

[Princess Stella]

We are ready. Close the door, please, Mr. Jordan, and turn off the lights.

[Claude Jordan]

Yes, Princess.

[Princess Stella]

Jordan, Wait a Moment. What was that noise?

[Claude Jordan]

I don't know. It seemed to come from just outside the door. But there's no one there.

[Princess Stella]

Well, close the door, then, and let's get started. Join the circle, Jordan. Let me warn you all. Do not break the circle, no matter what happens. Let silence reign a moment. Spirit of another world, come to us. Manifest thyself to those who do not believe. Show thyself within this room. Come, spirit. Appear. Appear and speak.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Who call?

[Princess Stella]

Who disturbs this spirit?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

I am the spirit of Alvin Ganz.

[Princess Stella]

Something is wrong. Turn on the lights.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Stay where you are, all of you, and hear me out. The ghosts of the murdered have a right to speak.

[Princess Stella]

Turn your flashlight on him, Dr. Strong.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

There's no one there.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

I'm here, but you can't see me.

[Princess Stella]

It cannot be a ghost. It cannot be.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

You admit before witnesses, Princess Stella, that you have no power to produce a ghost.

[Princess Stella]

Yes, yes, but tell me who you are.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

I am the avenger, Stella. I am here to accuse Claude Jordan of the murder of Professor Ganz. It's a lie.

[Claude Jordan]

That's a lie.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

This is some sort of trick you're

[Claude Jordan]

playing on me, Stella.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

It's no trick, Jordan. I'll turn on the lights and produce the evidence. It's afraid of Stella. Strong and Hayden, search Jordan Examiners with a flag. You'll find something interesting there.

[Claude Jordan]

Let me go.

[Professor Gans]

Why?

[Narrator/Storyteller]

There's a small bow and arrow attached to his leg.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

And fastened underneath it is a small dagger. Like the one used to kill Gans? Yes, that's right. Strong, call Inspector White. Tell him Jordan is ready to give him an exhibition of some amazing footwork.

[Princess Stella]

It's sam.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Well, friend, you furnished the clue that solved this murder case.

[Fern Collier]

I did what?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Jim, you noticed that Jordan wasn't wearing socks at the seance when Ganz was killed.

[Fern Collier]

How was that a clue?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

The thing that had us stumped until then was the certain knowledge that no one at that seance could have used his hands to drive that dagger into Gan's heart.

[Fern Collier]

That's right.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

But what if a person were just as dexterous with his feet as with his hands?

[Fern Collier]

You mean he could have thrown the dagger with his feet?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Hardly thrown it, but he could have aimed it with his feet.

[Fern Collier]

I see. That little bow and arrow fastened to Jordan's leg could be set, aimed and released by his other foot.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

That's right. After I'd figured that out, I realized that the smudge print on the dagger could have been a toe print.

[Fern Collier]

So that's why we went to the gymnasium to see those savate boxes who boxed with their feet.

[Claude Jordan]

Yes.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

One of those boxes demonstrated my theory of how the crime was committed. Without moving the upper part of his body at all.

[Fern Collier]

Jim, just what was it that Professor Gans knew about Princess Stella and Jordan? The motive for the murder.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Jordan was mixed up in a killing in Vienna about 20 years ago that Gans happened to remember. He intended to expose Jordan after the seance that day. And Jordan knew it.

[Fern Collier]

There seems to be no limit to the methods of murder.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

They don't give us detectives a chance to grow complacent.

[Fern Collier]

No, this one really had you on your toes.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Oh, pun, Ms. Collier. That some would call a very murderous weapon.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

All characters, names, places and plots used in the Avenger program are fictitious. Any similarity to persons living or dead is purely coincidental.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

This is a thought. A thought. A thought.

[Claude Jordan]

Remember?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Listen for another adventure of

[Narrator/Storyteller]

the Avenger.