The Avenger - Thoroughbred Murders

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Avenger - Thoroughbred Murders

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode Date: March 16, 2026

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Overview

This episode of The Avenger, part of the Golden Age of Radio, features a gripping murder mystery set against the backdrop of a country estate and a weekend of thoroughbred riding. The main characters—Jim Brandon (aka The Avenger), his assistant Fern Collier, and a cast of theatrical and horse-loving guests—find themselves thrust into a web of jealousy, ambition, and murder after an apparent accident reveals far deeper motives. Classic radio storytelling, witty banter, and a clever unraveling of clues lead to a dramatic finale.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

Weekend at Feldon's Estate: Setup and Tensions

• Setting the Scene (03:01 – 05:11)
  The group, including Jim Brandon, Fern Collier, Rosalind Burke, William Burke, Eddie Woods, Harold Lansbury, and host George Feldon, gathers for a weekend of riding and a planned stagecoach race featuring women drivers—a novelty for its time.

  • Rosalind’s skills impress the crowd:

    "She drives them like that tomorrow, she's a sure winner." — Eddie Woods (05:09)

  • Rosalind’s background as a retired actress and her husband's distaste for the theater are quickly established.

• Personal Dynamics (06:30 – 08:10)

  • Rosalind demonstrates her skill at handwriting analysis, further showing her intelligence and charisma.
  • Romantic and professional tensions emerge. Rosalind contemplates returning to the stage, but her husband, Burke, opposes it:

    "A great actress never retires, Fern. And Rosalind is a great actress." — Jim Brandon (03:48)

Ambitions, Plots, and Conflicts

• The Theatrical Investment Request (08:25 – 12:23)
  • Rosalind conspires with friends to persuade her husband to finance Harold Lansbury's new play, using the weekend as her chance.
    • Burke refuses, sparking a heated marital confrontation:

      "You agreed when we were married to give up the theater. I'm holding you to that agreement." — William Burke (10:52) "I'm giving you your grease paint, Rosalind, but that's all I'm giving you." — William Burke (12:23)

The "Accident": Death at the Stables

• Tragedy Strikes (14:16 – 15:46)
  • William Burke is found dead in the stable, apparently trampled by Feldon’s dangerous stallion, Demon.
  • Suspense builds with panicked reactions and a growing sense that all is not as it seems:

    "It's Burke Brandon. The stallion trampled him... I'll call the doctor." — George Feldon (17:35) "Burke's dead, George." — Eddie Woods (17:43)

Investigation and Strategy

• Suspicion and Clues

  • Sheriff calls for everyone to be available for questioning, and Jim Brandon suspects murder rather than accident.

    "The sheriff hasn't listed the death of William Burke as accidental." — Jim Brandon/Avenger (19:29)

  • Brandon searches for clues, finding nothing incriminating in the rooms but changing tactics to force the killer's hand:

    "We'll have to force our murderer into a tight position. Make him do something he hadn't counted on." — Jim Brandon/Avenger (21:00)

• The False Confession (21:50 – 23:00)

  • A reversed desk blotter reveals a forged confession incriminating George Feldon. Jim and Fern discuss inconsistencies, such as repeated writing of Feldon's name and a found piece of red lacquered fingernail, raising their suspicions of Rosalind.

    "She was the logical one to suspect of writing that false confession." — Jim Brandon/Avenger (28:43)

Climax: Unmasking the Murderer

• Attempted Framing and Poison Plot (23:31 – 27:00)
  • Jim realizes George Feldon's life is also in danger from poison planted in his nightly drink.

    "Tonight somebody dropped some poison in your drink, George... Offhand, I'd say it's been dosed with a goodly portion of some sort of Mercuric compound." — Jim Brandon/Avenger (24:16)

  • With the sheriff's help, Jim sets a trap by pretending George is to be arrested for Burke's murder.
  • Rosalind, seeking to frame George and cover her tracks, is confronted by The Avenger's voice:

    "I know you plan to poison George Feldon tonight and make it look like guilty suicide." — The Avenger (25:53) "The sheriff is awaiting you, Rosalind, open the door. It's time for your last curtain call." — The Avenger (26:27)

Resolution: The Motive and Method Revealed

• Final Explanations & Closure (28:31 – 30:33)
  • Jim reveals the murder method: Rosalind faked a horse trampling using a horseshoe nailed to a board—mistakenly with the open end down:

    "A horse always kicks up. But the marks... were down. Rosalind nailed a horseshoe on a board and waited for Burke... The open end of it should have been toward the top... She nailed it with the open end down, and that told me it was murder." — Jim Brandon/Avenger (29:45)

  • Motive: Rosalind killed her husband after he refused to back her play; she tried to pin the murder on Feldon when her plot unraveled.

Epilogue

• Light Moment and Return to Routine
  • Fern and Jim share a final moment riding together, with Fern refusing to drive the coach—a nod to the story’s beginning.

    "Here, Fern, take the reins." — Eddie Woods (30:30)
    "Oh, no." — Fern Collier (30:32)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “Crime does not pay.” — Eddie Woods (00:41)
• “There are a few points on that murder you've got to clear up for me.” — Fern Collier (28:31)
• “She was a strong woman... she hit him quickly and repeatedly. But her mistake was in the position of the horseshoe.” — Jim Brandon/Avenger (29:45)
• “It's time for your last curtain call.” — The Avenger, to Rosalind (26:27)

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Important Timestamps

• [03:01] – Weekend at the estate, introductions, and exposition
• [05:09] – Rosalind’s racing skills demonstrated
• [08:25] – Theatrical ambition and plot to request investment
• [12:23] – Marital confrontation and refusal
• [15:46] – The deadly "accident" in the stables
• [19:29] – Announcement the death was not accidental, all are suspects
• [22:07] – Discovery of the reversed desk blotter
• [24:16] – Discovery of the poisoned drink
• [25:53 – 26:34] – The Avenger’s final confrontation with Rosalind
• [29:45] – Explanation of the murder method
• [30:30-30:48] – Closing banter and return to normalcy

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Final Thoughts

A classic radio drama combining clever plotting and colorful characters. Thoroughbred Murders draws on theatrical rivalries, romantic jealousy, and just the right touch of forensic deduction to deliver an engaging mystery. The interplay between Fern, Jim, and the rest brings warmth and wit, exemplifying the era’s radio storytelling.

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For newcomers: This summary captures the major plot points and the stylish deduction that makes “The Avenger” a staple of old-time radio mystery. If you love whodunits with flair, this episode is a must-listen!

Transcript

[Fern Collier]

Access to affordable credit helps me pay my employees, but I don't really need it.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Inflation is killing me. 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

[Narrator/Announcer]

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

[Commercial Advertiser]

Tell Congress, stop the Durbin Marshall money grab for corporate megastores. Paid for by the Electronic Payments Coalition.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

The Avenger.

[Eddie Woods]

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

[Rosalind Burke]

Sam. It's.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

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 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 thoroughbred murder. A group of weekend guests are gathered at the race course on George Feldon's elaborate country estate.

[Fern Collier]

This is going to be a very exciting weekend, Jim. Just imagine having our pick of George Feldman's famous thoroughbreds to ride.

[Eddie Woods]

It'll be a treat. All right, Fern.

[Fern Collier]

And that stagecoach race at the fair tomorrow, that should be something to see.

[Eddie Woods]

It will be. The idea of having women drivers is quite a novelty. Come over to the rail, Fern. Rosalind Burke is going to give George Feldon's coach and four a workout. She's going to drive his coach in the race tomorrow.

[Fern Collier]

Jim, do you think Rosalind has a chance to win? I don't think she looks strong enough to handle that team.

[Eddie Woods]

Well, I'll be able to answer that better after I've seen what kind of showing she makes on this practice run.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Well, Brandon, how much are you willing to put on Rosalind to win the race tomorrow?

[Eddie Woods]

Whether she wins or not, Eddie, she'll get reams of publicity out of it. I take it that was the idea behind the whole thing.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Of course. An actress always needs publicity, you know.

[Fern Collier]

But I thought Rosalind retired from the stage two years ago when she married William Burke.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

A great actress never retires, Fern. And Rosalind is a great actress.

[Fern Collier]

Yes, I saw several plays in which you two were co stars.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

And you'll see our name in lights again. Fern, if I can talk some sense into Eddie woods and Rosalind Dale. That combination still has a draw.

[Eddie Woods]

Oh, George is bringing the coach up to the starting line. She'll be ready to go in a minute.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Oh, I'll see you later. I want to time this.

[Fern Collier]

Eddie woods is certainly anxious to get Rosalind back on the stage, isn't he?

[Eddie Woods]

And with good reason. He hasn't had a play since she retired to marry Burke. But I think he's wasting his time. Burke is set against Rosalind going on with her career.

[Fern Collier]

Yes. Mr. Burke seems to hate the theater and everyone connected with it.

[Eddie Woods]

The coach is ready to start. Watch this, Fern.

[Fern Collier]

Here she comes.

[Eddie Woods]

Let him out, Raz.

[Fern Collier]

Oh, good heavens, Jim. Look at her go.

[Eddie Woods]

Yes, we don't need to worry about her being strong enough to handle that team. She's in perfect control.

[Fern Collier]

Well, that takes a lot of nerve. I couldn't do it.

[Eddie Woods]

She's reached the bend. Give them their heads, Roslyn. Look at her ride.

[Fern Collier]

For a second there, I thought she was going to turn over.

[Eddie Woods]

She's racing them for all their work now, if she doesn't break the time record, I miss my guess.

[Fern Collier]

They're on the home stretch now. Look at Roslyn.

[Eddie Woods]

She's certainly enjoying driving. They're over the line. What was the time of that, Eddie?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Five seconds under the record, Brandon.

[Eddie Woods]

Oh, she drives them like that tomorrow. She's a sure winner.

[Fern Collier]

Look, Jim, even her husband is pleased.

[Eddie Woods]

Oh, that's easy to understand. Horses are Burke's great love. He has quite a stable of his own. In fact, I'd be willing to bet he's down here trying to buy a few of George Feldon's prize winners.

[Fern Collier]

Come on, Jim. Let's go over and congratulate Rosalind.

[George Feldon]

Oh, George, before we go back to the house, I'd like to have a look at that new bay stallion of yours. All right, Burke. But let me warn you, Demon's not for sale. I. I want that clearly understood. Don't worry, George. I don't want to buy him. Now, if he were a flat racer instead of a steeple chaser, I might be interested. Even though he does have the reputation of being a man killer. Well, Demons are thoroughbred. He's precious and sensitive, excitable, but he has a great staying power. I hear he has a fine head. Personally, I think he's just as great a racehorse as Herold and Eclipse. That's mighty fast company, George. How about letting me take him out for a run in the morning? Well, if you think you can handle him, you're welcome to try. No horse has Ever thrown me yet, George? Well, before you, Mount Demon, you'd better see that your insurance is paid up. Oh, right this way. Demon's stall is over here.

[Rosalind Burke]

You see, Harold, these heavy strokes in your handwriting show that you're determined, even headstrong. And that white spacing of your letters, it means that you're generous.

[George Feldon]

Rosalind, dear, anytime I'm suffering from a deflated ego, I'll have you read my handwriting.

[Rosalind Burke]

Oh, I know you think handwriting analysis is just a parlor trick, but there's really quite a lot of truth in it, Harold.

[George Feldon]

No doubt. But you know me too well, Ros. You couldn't really give me an unbiased analysis.

[Rosalind Burke]

Well, I. I don't know. Jim Brandon. Suppose I analyze his writing? Fearne can judge whether I'm right or wrong. Come on, Jim.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

I'm a detective.

[Eddie Woods]

I can't afford to have my writing analyzed. It might give away my secrets.

[Rosalind Burke]

I'd like that, Rosalind.

[Fern Collier]

I thought all these stories I used to read in the papers about your being a handwriting expert were just so much publicity.

[Rosalind Burke]

Oh, I just play around at it, Fern. I'm a rank amateur. Really?

[George Feldon]

How about a dance, Roz? There's music in the drawing room.

[Rosalind Burke]

A wonderful idea, Harold. Excuse us, please. I want you to teach me that new step you were telling me.

[Fern Collier]

Gosh, Jim, Rosalind is just as fascinating off stage as on.

[Eddie Woods]

Yes, she has the rare combination of beauty and brains.

[Fern Collier]

And it seems as if every man here is in love with her.

[Eddie Woods]

Well, that statement is a little too inclusive, young lady. But there's some truth in what you say.

[Fern Collier]

Her husband is terribly jealous, too. I can tell by the way he watches her.

[Eddie Woods]

Now, now, don't let that romantic imagination of yours take wings. Rosalind has known all these people for a long time.

[Fern Collier]

Well, I know that she and Eddie woods are old friends, but who was? Harold Lansbury.

[Eddie Woods]

He wrote and produced the last play in which Rosalind and Eddie starred.

[Fern Collier]

What about George Feldon, our host? Is he an old friend of hers, too?

[Eddie Woods]

No, he's Burke's friend. Their mutual interest is horses.

[Fern Collier]

Well, I guess that brings me up to date on the guest list.

[Eddie Woods]

All right, then. How about a walk on the terrace before tea?

[Fern Collier]

Sold, Mr. Brandon.

[George Feldon]

Well, Rosalind, have you spoken to that husband of yours about the money?

[Rosalind Burke]

Not yet, Harold. Frankly, I'm finding it very difficult to muster up the courage.

[George Feldon]

Well, don't tell me you're going to back out now after getting George to invite us all down here for the express purpose of softening him up.

[Rosalind Burke]

No, I'm Going to carry out my part of the bargain.

[George Feldon]

Well, the longer you put it off, the harder it'll be. I can't wait much longer, Rosalind. I have to give my plan to rehearsal if it's going to be produced this season.

[Rosalind Burke]

I know, I. You've been sweet to wait as long as you have.

[George Feldon]

It's the perfect vehicle for you, Rosalind. Actually, I wrote it with you in mind.

[Rosalind Burke]

I know you did, Harold. The part's wonderful. I'd adore playing it.

[George Feldon]

The backing's the only thing that's holding us up. If you can persuade that contrarian narrow minded man you married to loosen up his purse.

[Rosalind Burke]

Oh, Harold, don't start on Burke again. I know you hate him, but after all, you can't expect him to look at these things the same way we do.

[George Feldon]

Well, I don't see how you can stand it. For two whole years Burke stood between you and your career. Can't you see that if he cared anything at all about you, he'd want to see you happy? Why, Ros, the theater is the very breath of life to you. You were a fool ever to think you could give it up.

[Rosalind Burke]

Yes, I realize that now.

[George Feldon]

Well, if you don't want your public to forget you, you'd better make up your mind. A lot of young stars are beginning to blossom out.

[Rosalind Burke]

I'll do my best to convince Burke that your play is a good investment. If I can persuade him to put up the money, then he'll be one of us. He'll have an interest in my work and maybe.

[George Feldon]

Oh, Mrs. Roz, don't give me that one little happy family routine. Even if Burke does put up the money, keep him away from me. Every time I look at him, I get the urge to commit assault.

[Rosalind Burke]

My husband certainly isn't very popular with my friends.

[George Feldon]

He's the villain for my money. When are you going to speak to him?

[Rosalind Burke]

Right away. But I'll have to talk it over with Eddie first.

[Eddie Woods]

Why?

[Rosalind Burke]

Well, naturally I'd want Eddie for my leading man.

[George Feldon]

Well, you could do much better.

[Eddie Woods]

Ros.

[George Feldon]

Eddie's on the skid.

[Rosalind Burke]

No, it's both of us or nothing.

[George Feldon]

Oh, all right. The leading man's a stooge in this play anyway.

[Rosalind Burke]

It's settled then. I'll get a hold of Eddie and we'll go to Burke together.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Burke, this play of Harold's is sure of fire. It can't miss. Why, if I had the money, I wouldn't hesitate a second to prove it.

[George Feldon]

Probably not, Woods. That's the reason you have no money.

[Rosalind Burke]

Let me handle this, Eddie.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Okay, Burke, listen.

[Rosalind Burke]

This chance means everything to me. This play would put me right back up on top.

[George Feldon]

Rosalind, you agreed when we were married to give up the theater. I'm holding you to that agreement.

[Rosalind Burke]

I know. I've tried, Burke. Honestly, I have. But the theater's in my blood. I. I can't be happy away from

[George Feldon]

the stage simply comes to a choice between us.

[Rosalind Burke]

Then it doesn't have to, Burke. If you'd be reasonable.

[George Feldon]

Yes, of course. If I'd be reasonable. Invest a small fortune in a play for you, you'd be willing to put up with me?

[Rosalind Burke]

You're just being nasty. It all boils down to the fact that you're too tight and mean to invest your money in anything that would bring happiness to people.

[George Feldon]

Just a minute. You're not on the stage now, and there's no one in the gallery.

[Rosalind Burke]

I mean every word I'm saying.

[George Feldon]

And so do I. I'm not putting one penny into any theatrical venture that you or anybody else is interested in. Kindly inform your friends of that and tell them to keep away from me.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Why, you penny.

[Rosalind Burke]

Keep out of this. Leave us alone for a minute.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

If you say so, Roz, but I'd like to take a swing at that.

[Rosalind Burke]

Wait for me outside, Eddie.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

All right, but don't let him bully you.

[Rosalind Burke]

Well, Burke, the time has come for us to straighten out a few things.

[George Feldon]

Yes, it certainly has.

[Rosalind Burke]

I've made up my mind to go back on the stage. I was hoping you'd understand that we could work things out. But if we can't, we can't.

[George Feldon]

This is the parting of the ways. I can't say I'm sorry.

[Rosalind Burke]

I guess there's nothing more to be said then.

[George Feldon]

Oh, yes. Yes, there is. I want to make it clear that I intend to arrange my affairs in such a way that not one cent will get into your hands. I'm giving you your grease paint, Rosalind, but that's all I'm giving you.

[Fern Collier]

Access to affordable credit helps me pay my employees, but I don't really need it.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Inflation is killing me, 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

[Narrator/Announcer]

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

[Commercial Advertiser]

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[George Feldon]

I'd certainly be disappointed if Demon doesn't live up to his name. Well, he'll give you a run for your money, Burke. Don't worry about that. Say, George, I. I want to speak to you privately about something. We've known each other for a long time. I know I can trust you. I'd like you to do me a favor. Anything, Burke. If Rosalind approaches you for money to back her play, I want you to refuse. Well, she approached me some weeks ago, Burke, but I have all my money tied up in horses. Anyway, I knew how you felt about the whole thing. Thanks, George. You always were true blue. That's why I've willed you my entire stables. You. You what? Yeah. Of course, you'll have to outlive me to collect. Well, guess that's not very likely. Oh, there's Demon Stalber. He's already saddled. While you bring him out and get acquainted, I'll have the groom saddle my horse. I've decided to take a canner with him. Oh, good. Hurry, though, or the best part of the morning will be gone.

[Eddie Woods]

Right.

[George Feldon]

Well, Demon, I'm going to give you a chance to show me what you can do this morning. How do you feel about jumping a few fences, boy? All right, come on. Come on. Out of your stall. Easy now. Easy. Just a boy. Easy. Hey, you are hard to handle, aren't you?

[Rosalind Burke]

Ooh.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Ooh.

[George Feldon]

Steady, devil. Steady, boy. Stay back. No.

[Rosalind Burke]

No.

[George Feldon]

Get away from.

[Rosalind Burke]

It's sam.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

And now back to the avenger and the thoroughbred murder.

[Rosalind Burke]

Help. Help.

[Eddie Woods]

Brandon, come down here quick.

[George Feldon]

It's Burke.

[Rosalind Burke]

Come on.

[Eddie Woods]

Come on back in your stall.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Easy now, boy.

[Eddie Woods]

Easy.

[George Feldon]

Back up there.

[Eddie Woods]

Come on, back up. Get in there.

[George Feldon]

There we are.

[Eddie Woods]

What happened, George?

[George Feldon]

It's Burke Brandon. The stallion trampled him. I warned him Demon was dangerous, but he insisted upon riding him. I'll. I'll call the doctor.

[Eddie Woods]

Wait. Burke's dead, George.

[George Feldon]

Dead?

[Eddie Woods]

We'll have to call the sheriff.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

But, George, where were you when this awful thing happened?

[George Feldon]

Well, I was on the other side of the stable having my horse saddled. Oh, Eddie, believe me, I never dreamed Demon was as dangerous as that.

[Eddie Woods]

Yeah, it was horrible, all right.

[George Feldon]

Tell me, where's Rosalind?

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Fern and Harold took her upstairs. She's hysterical.

[George Feldon]

Oh, here comes Brandon now. Say, the sheriff isn't with him, though.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

That's strange. I thought the sheriff would want to question you. Where's the sheriff, Jim?

[Eddie Woods]

He had to go back to town to file his report. We're all to hold ourselves available for questioning.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

But I think it would be better if we could get Rosalind out of here.

[Eddie Woods]

I'm sorry, Eddie, but none of us can leave here until tomorrow. At least these hick policemen.

[George Feldon]

Well, my next move is to get rid of demons. There's no sense having a dangerous animal like that around.

[Eddie Woods]

I'd wait until all this is over, George. I strapped one of Demon's four legs under him and locked him in a straw. He can't do any harm.

[George Feldon]

Well, good work, Jim. Horse can't kick unless both his forelegs are free. You know, I. I simply can't understand how an experienced turfman like Burke could allow himself to be kicked to death by a horse.

[Eddie Woods]

It is strange, George. Strange beyond all understanding. That is why I'd like you to assemble all your guests. I have an announcement to make to them.

[Fern Collier]

Sit here, Rosalind. Jim will be here in a minute.

[Rosalind Burke]

What is it, Fern? Why have we been called together like this? Has something else happened?

[Fern Collier]

I don't know any more about it than you do. Oh, here's Jim now.

[Eddie Woods]

Is everybody here?

[George Feldon]

Yes, Jim. All my guests. Four servants and the groom who was on duty this morning.

[Eddie Woods]

I'll come straight to the point, then. I thought all of you would be interested to know that the sheriff hasn't listed the death of William Burke as accidental.

[George Feldon]

Not accidental. Well, just what do you mean, Jim?

[Eddie Woods]

Just this. Someone in this room, besides myself, knows that William Burke was murdered. Well, that's ridiculous. I don't see how it could possibly be. Just a moment, please. The truth of the matter is that each and every one of us is under suspicion until this case is solved. If anyone leaves these grounds, he will be tracked down and arrested instantly. For the moment, that is All I'm authorized to tell you.

[Fern Collier]

Gosh, Jim, that announcement you made certainly caused a sensation.

[Eddie Woods]

Fern, while everyone is out there on the terrace letting off steam, I'm going to make a thorough examination of all their rooms. Come along. I want you to keep watch at the head of the stairs. Nothing at all suspicious in George Felton's room. Fearne? No clues in Eddie's room. Rosalind's room reveals nothing at all. I drew another blank in Harold's room.

[Fern Collier]

What now, Jim?

[Eddie Woods]

We'll have to change our tactics, Fern, and shift to the offensive.

[Fern Collier]

How do you mean, Jim?

[Eddie Woods]

Well, the sheriff only gave me until midnight on this case. Then the local police are going to move in.

[Fern Collier]

That doesn't give you much time.

[Eddie Woods]

No. So we'll have to force our murderer into a tight position. Make him do something he hadn't counted on.

[Fern Collier]

But how can we do that?

[Eddie Woods]

While I'm searching the servants quarters, I want you to go down to the terrace and blandly announce that I've uncovered several clues and have promised the sheriff to deliver his murderer tomorrow.

[Fern Collier]

That will call for some acting.

[Eddie Woods]

Well, Fern, you've had a chance to observe a good actress this weekend. Just take a few cues from her.

[Fern Collier]

Okay.

[Eddie Woods]

Meet me in the library in an hour. We'll compare notes there.

[Fern Collier]

So, after I read my lines about the clues you are supposed to have, I made a hasty exit and took a walk around the grounds.

[Eddie Woods]

Fern, did anyone seem particularly upset by what you said?

[Fern Collier]

They all did, Jim. Everyone acted guilty.

[Eddie Woods]

I was afraid of that.

[Fern Collier]

Well, we might as well search this library.

[Eddie Woods]

That's already been done. I gave this place a good going over before we searched upstairs. Well, wait a minute. There's something different about this desk. Different? Yes, it's this desk blotter. Someone's put a clean one here within the last two hours.

[Fern Collier]

That's odd. Oh, Jim, look. It's just been reversed. There's quite a lot of blotted writing on the other side.

[Eddie Woods]

And very interesting, too. Lend me your mirror, Fern.

[Fern Collier]

Here. Can you make out anything, Jim?

[Eddie Woods]

Yes. The name of George Feldon has been written several times since I last saw this blotter.

[Fern Collier]

Not particularly unusual when you stop to consider this is his library.

[Eddie Woods]

There's something else here. Why, it's George Feldon's confession, Fern.

[Fern Collier]

His confession?

[Eddie Woods]

Yes. I can make out part of it very clearly. According to this, he encouraged Demon to trample Burke to death.

[Fern Collier]

Somehow I didn't think George Feldon was guilty.

[Eddie Woods]

Whether he's guilty or not, I have some good reasons for doubting he Wrote this confession? Why, Jim, if George Felden did write this, why should he bother to reverse the blotter? And why should he write and blot his name several times when the confession is signed only once?

[Fern Collier]

I don't know. I'm completely lost. Jim, what was that you just hid in your handkerchief?

[Eddie Woods]

A small piece of fingernail. Another reason why I don't believe Feldon wrote this. There's still another. But that will have to wait because that was the clue that told me Burke was murdered.

[George Feldon]

Jim, I asked you to come to my room so that we could have a private talk.

[Eddie Woods]

I'm glad you did, George. I've been hoping for a chance to speak with you. You talk first. What's on your mind?

[George Feldon]

Well, Fern told us earlier this afternoon that you knew who murdered Burke. Now, if that's so, why haven't you exposed the killer?

[Eddie Woods]

Frankly, I wasn't sure who the killer was then, but I am now. I'm waiting for the sheriff, who'll be here any moment. Also, there's a plot against your life, George.

[George Feldon]

Against me? Say, what are you talking about, Jim?

[Eddie Woods]

Someone intends to kill you tonight.

[George Feldon]

Well, I hope you're planning to do something about it.

[Eddie Woods]

Yes, I intend to prevent it.

[George Feldon]

Well, that's a relief. Say, I could stand a drink.

[Eddie Woods]

How about you, Jim? No, thanks.

[George Feldon]

Well, I'll ring for something.

[Eddie Woods]

There's a drink already mixed here on your table.

[George Feldon]

Well, good old Roberts. Even murder doesn't make him forget my nightcap. Hand it over, Jim. I certainly need it.

[Eddie Woods]

Say, this drink doesn't have a true color. George, is your butler in the habit of leaving a drink here for you every night?

[George Feldon]

Always. Why?

[Eddie Woods]

Well, tonight somebody dropped some poison in your drink, George. Poison? Offhand, I'd say it's been dosed with a goodly portion of some sort of Mercuric compound.

[George Feldon]

Jim, you've got to get to the bottom of this.

[Eddie Woods]

All right. When the sheriff arrives, we're going to accuse you of murder. What are you talking about?

[George Feldon]

Well, you must be mad as a.

[Eddie Woods]

Take it easy. Take it easy? That's the way I mean to trap the killer. Now, listen carefully. The sheriff and I will pretend to believe that you murdered. And that's the whole story. Sheriff. Everyone's waiting for you in the drawing room. Go in and put on your act.

[George Feldon]

Mm. Mean, you're not coming in to see the fireworks?

[Eddie Woods]

No, I've got a pack. I'm taking the one o' clock train back to the city. You can take the bows on this, Sheriff. Quiet.

[George Feldon]

Quiet, everyone.

[Eddie Woods]

Quiet, please.

[George Feldon]

George. Feldon, the sheriff of this township. I'm arresting you for the murder of William Burke.

[Rosalind Burke]

Yes.

[George Feldon]

And I'm warning you that anything you say can be used against you.

[Rosalind Burke]

Oh, this is ridiculous. Sheriff.

[George Feldon]

Mrs. Burke, I know what I'm doing. Felden is guilty.

[Rosalind Burke]

I don't believe it. Georgia, I'll help you fight this. I'll go and call my lawyer right away. He'll come down here immediately and handle everything for you.

[Eddie Woods]

Don't touch that glass. Rosalind Burke.

[Rosalind Burke]

Who said that? Who's in here?

[Eddie Woods]

It's the avenger. Rosalind. I've been waiting for you.

[Rosalind Burke]

Waiting for me?

[Eddie Woods]

Yes. I know you plan to poison George Feldon tonight and make it look like guilty suicide.

[Rosalind Burke]

You'd have a hard time proving that.

[Eddie Woods]

I don't think so. Your very presence in this room condemns you. Not only that, you have Feldon's confession to your husband's murder there in your purse. You wrote it early this afternoon in the library.

[Rosalind Burke]

What sort of ghost are you that you know what I've done?

[Eddie Woods]

I'll tell you more. When your little plan to kill George failed, you came back here to get rid of that tell tale poison. And that was the greatest mistake you made.

[Rosalind Burke]

Where are you? I'll silence you, Avenger.

[Eddie Woods]

The sheriff is awaiting you. Rosalind, open the door. It's time for your last curtain call.

[Rosalind Burke]

No, I. I don't believe you. This is some sort of joke. I'll call you bluff. It's true.

[George Feldon]

All right, Mrs. Burke. Come quietly. Charge is murder.

[Eddie Woods]

Well, Fern, how do you like riding a coach? And four?

[Fern Collier]

Oh, it's wonderful, Jim. Thanks an awful lot for letting me persuade you to stay over an extra day.

[Eddie Woods]

Well, this weekend turned out badly for you. You planned on doing a lot of riding and instead you got mixed up in a murder.

[Fern Collier]

Jim, stop the horses a minute. There are a few points on that murder you've got to clear up for me.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Whoa there.

[George Feldon]

Whoa.

[Eddie Woods]

Okay, Fearne, shoot first.

[Fern Collier]

How are you so sure Rosalind was guilty?

[Eddie Woods]

Well, Rosalind was something of an expert at handwriting, as she demonstrated the other day. So she was the logical one to suspect of writing that false confession. In addition to that, she had practiced writing the name George Feldon several times. Then I found a small piece of red lacquered fingernail which he must have broken when she reversed the blotter. Later I checked on that and found that the nail on her right forefinger was much shorter than the others.

[Fern Collier]

Do you mean to tell me Rosalind came down here for the weekend planning to commit two murders?

[Eddie Woods]

No. Her original plan was to murder her husband, and that only if he refused to back her play. He did refuse, so she killed him. If we hadn't tumbled to the fact that his death wasn't accidental, she would have collected enough insurance to back her own play.

[Fern Collier]

Then why did she decide to get rid of George?

[Eddie Woods]

When I announced that we knew Burke had been murdered, she decided to pin the crime on George and shut him up. She planned to poison him and leave the confession in his room. She was certain his suicide would close the case.

[Fern Collier]

Wait a minute, Jim. I forgot to ask you the most important thing. How did you know Burke was murdered?

[Eddie Woods]

Well, friend, a horse always kicks up. But the marks of the horseshoe on Burke's face and body were down. Rosalind nailed a horseshoe on a board and waited for Burke and Demon Stahl. She was a strong woman, as you know, and she hit him quickly and repeatedly. But her mistake was in the position of the horseshoe. The open end of it should have been toward the top of the board. She nailed it with the open end down, and that told me it was murder.

[Fern Collier]

Then she made another mistake. Because you didn't reveal that you knew how Burke was murdered.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

Yes.

[Eddie Woods]

In that confession she wrote for George, she had him admitting that he had let her demon kick Burke to death. I knew Burke couldn't have died that way, so the confession had to be phony.

[Fern Collier]

Well, that takes care of everything.

[George Feldon]

Good.

[Eddie Woods]

Let's continue with our ride. Here, Fern, take the reins.

[Fern Collier]

Oh, no.

[Eddie Woods]

Go on, take them. Let me see how you can handle these bays.

[Fern Collier]

Oh, no.

[Eddie Woods]

Take them. If you're good enough, I'll enter you in the fair next year. Get up. Get up there.

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

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

[Eddie Woods]

This is a thought. A thought, A thought. Remember? Listen for another adventure of

[Jim Brandon (The Avenger)]

the Avenger.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Here on the job site with Dale, who's a framing contractor.

[George Feldon]

Hey, good morning.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Dale traded up to Geico Commercial Auto Insurance for all his business vehicles. We're here where he needs us most.

[George Feldon]

Yep, they sure are.

[Narrator/Announcer]

We make it easy for him to save on all his insurance needs, all in one place with coverage that fits his business and bottom line. Oh, I shouldn't have looked down.

[George Feldon]

It's all right.

[Narrator/Announcer]

We're so far up here.

[Rosalind Burke]

Look at me.

[George Feldon]

Take a deep breath.

[Narrator/Announcer]

No, I'm good. So good.

[George Feldon]

Get a commercial auto insurance quote [e-mail]

[Eddie Woods]

and see how much you could save.

[George Feldon]

It feels good.

[Eddie Woods]

To Geico.