The Silent Men 51-10-14 (01) The Big Sneak

Summary

Summary of "Harold's Old Time Radio" - Episode: "The Silent Men 51-10-14 (01) The Big Sneak"

Podcast Information

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Harolds Old Time Radio
• Episode: The Silent Men 51-10-14 (01) The Big Sneak
• Release Date: May 4, 2025

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Introduction

"The Big Sneak," the inaugural episode of "The Silent Men" series, transports listeners to the thrilling era of the Golden Age of Radio. Hosted by Harolds Old Time Radio, this episode delves into the clandestine operations of federal special agents as they navigate the perilous world of organized crime. With a narrative rich in suspense and character development, the episode sets the stage for an engaging series that celebrates the unseen heroes of law enforcement.

Plot Overview

The episode centers on Special Agent George Spencer (portrayed by Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.), who is tasked with thwarting the plans of Frankie Orlando, a notorious mobster seeking to reestablish his criminal empire. Operating under the guise of an art dealer, Spencer, alongside his colleague Tony Curto, embarks on an undercover mission to Palermo, Sicily. Their objective is to intercept Orlando before he can infiltrate the United States illegally and reignite his illicit activities.

Key Sections

Mission Briefing and Assignment

At the onset (01:12 - 06:18), Agent Spencer receives a briefing from his superior, the Chief, highlighting Orlando's dangerous history and the imperative to stop him. The Chief emphasizes the gravity of the mission:

Chief: "We wouldn't give him a 10 minute visa for a visit to Hoboken." (04:53)

Spencer is instructed to pose as an art dealer to blend into the target environment, leveraging his knowledge in art to maintain his cover.

Undercover Operations and Suspicion

As Spencer and Curto navigate their roles in Palermo (06:19 - 16:57), they encounter Big Joe Giovanni, a high-ranking Mafia associate. The tension escalates when Giovanni suspects their true intentions:

Big Joe Giovanni: "I think maybe you and him could smarten up." (09:47)

This interaction heightens the stakes, underscoring the constant threat agents face while undercover.

Investigation and Setbacks

The agents face several challenges, including Orlando's altered appearance after a supposed accident (16:00 - 22:57). Their pursuit leads them to a pivotal discovery when they intercept a cablegram containing coded messages, hinting at Orlando's next move:

Agent Spencer: "We can find out." (05:26)
Chief: "The only way to stop him is to go to him." (05:33)

This revelation propels the narrative forward, pushing Spencer and Curto to intensify their efforts.

Climax: The Capture of Frankie Orlando

The climax unfolds as the agents piece together clues leading to Orlando's hideout (22:57 - 27:49). They decode the cablegram, revealing that Orlando plans to use a polio patient as a cover for his illegal entry back into the United States. The strategic interception of the ambulance ensures Orlando's capture:

Agent Spencer: "It was Orlando then." (26:35)
Chief: "Yes, it was him." (26:38)

Resolution and Reflection

The episode concludes with Agent Spencer reflecting on the mission's success and the personal sacrifices inherent in such roles:

Chief: "You stop him and what do you get?"
Agent Spencer: "I get a lot. Those decent people you spoke about for friends and neighbors. My own family..." (27:07 - 27:10)

This dialogue underscores the emotional toll and the sense of duty that drives these silent men.

Character Analysis

• Special Agent George Spencer (Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.): A dedicated and resourceful agent whose commitment to justice drives the narrative. His interactions reveal a balance between professional duty and personal life, adding depth to his character.

• Chief: Represents authority and strategic oversight. His guidance and decisions are pivotal in steering the mission towards success, highlighting the collaborative nature of federal operations.

• Big Joe Giovanni: The antagonist whose presence introduces conflict and danger. His cunning and connections within the Mafia amplify the challenges faced by the agents.

Notable Quotes

• Chief on Mission Urgency:

  "We wouldn't give him a 10 minute visa for a visit to Hoboken." (04:53)

• Big Joe Giovanni's Threat:

  "I think maybe you and him could smarten up." (09:47)

• Agent Spencer's Reflection on Rewards:

  "I get a lot. Those decent people you spoke about for friends and neighbors. My own family..." (27:07)

Themes and Insights

• Sacrifice and Duty: The episode highlights the relentless dedication of federal agents who often work behind the scenes, risking their lives to maintain public safety.

• Identity and Deception: Undercover operations require agents to navigate complex identities, emphasizing themes of trust and deception.

• Justice vs. Crime: The perpetual battle between law enforcement and organized crime serves as the central conflict, illustrating the moral imperatives guiding the agents' actions.

Conclusion

"The Big Sneak" masterfully combines suspense, character development, and intricate plotting to deliver a compelling narrative that honors the legacy of Old Time Radio dramas. Through the lens of Special Agent George Spencer, listeners are immersed in a world where silent heroes operate with unwavering resolve. The episode sets a high standard for the series, promising continued adventures and deep dives into the valorous efforts of the Silent Men.

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Transcript

[Nicole Fire]

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[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Ooh.

[Nicole Fire]

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[George Spencer]

Wayfair every style, every home.

[Chief]

By transcription.

[Narrator]

It's the Silver jubilee on NBC. Every night is Mystery night here on NBC. Tonight's mystery feature is the Silent Men. Tomorrow evening, join Herbert Marshall as the Man Called X. On Tuesday, hear the pulsing excitement of Big Town. Then on Wednesday, there's the big Story. Authentic adventures of ace newspaper men. And later Wednesday evening, there's the new Barry Crane, confidential investigator, played by William Gargan. Yes, for high adventure on a mystery feature. Every evening, Monday through Friday, tune in to this NBC station. And now, it's the Silent Men on your NBC station.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

This is Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. In a moment, it will be my pleasure to introduce to you. Stories of the Silent Men. The special agents of federal law enforcement. Who silently and for little material reward. Daily risk their lives to protect the.

[Chief]

Lives of all of us.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Their tradition is long and proud. Yet to guard our welfare and our liberties, they must remain nameless. The Silent Men.

[Narrator]

Produced in Hollywood and starring Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. The National Broadcasting Company proudly presents. The Silent Men. Transcribe stories of the undercover operations of the special agents of every branch of our federal government. And their relentless fight against crime. Now, here again is Douglas Fairbanks.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Part of America's greatness is in its willingness and ability to open its doors and welcome new citizens from all parts of the world. The desirable aliens from other lands. Whether they be peasants or scientists, poets or potters. They add richness to our culture. They give love and devotion to our soil. But not all aliens are desirable. They come here on trial. Most of them prove themselves worthy, and they stay. Some must inevitably be sent back. Because they're a threat to our freedom, our institutions, our beliefs. Among the silent men who work as our sentinels. Are the men of the immigration department. Tonight I will play the role of Special Agent George Spencer. One of the silent men in tonight's file case. The big sneak. Morning.

[Stewardess]

Good morning. May I help you?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

I'm George Spencer, Boston division.

[Stewardess]

Oh, yes. Mr. Maine is expecting you. Mr. Spencer's here, sir.

[George Spencer]

Good.

[Chief]

Send him in. And hold all phone calls from now on.

[Stewardess]

Please go right in, Mr. Spencer.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Thanks.

[George Spencer]

Good.

[Chief]

Well, come in. Good to see you.

[George Spencer]

Good to see you.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Good to see you too, Chief.

[Chief]

Sit down. Tell me, how's the wife and George Jr?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Oh, Lillian's fine. George Junior's getting open spaces where his teeth used to be.

[Chief]

Kids, you look like monsters from time to time, don't they?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Yeah, certainly do. But you didn't call me to Washington to talk about Junior's teeth, I'll bet.

[Chief]

No, I didn't, George. I wish that was the reason, though. Ms. Walsh.

[Old Man]

Yes, sir.

[Chief]

Bring in the dossier on Frankie Orlando.

[Stewardess]

Yes, sir.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Orlando.

[Chief]

You remember the name, huh?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Not with pleasure. Admitted to the United States under the quota of 1928 arrests and conviction for bootlegging, dope, white slavery, manslaughter. Served time in Dannemora and Alcatraz. Deported Italy in 1946.

[Chief]

You have a good memory. I say we don't need the dossier.

[Stewardess]

The Orlando file?

[Chief]

No, just put it there. Thank you.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Well, what makes Orlando a problem? He's out of our territory now. Living in Sicily, isn't he?

[Chief]

He's getting lonesome for us, George.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Oh, I see.

[Chief]

The boys from treasury picked up one of his old mob on a counterfeit push a few days ago. Three time loser. He tried to buy his way out of a life rat by giving a little information. Orlando's going to try to pull a big snake, George.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Illegal entry, huh?

[Chief]

It's the only way he can get in. We wouldn't give him a 10 minute visa for a visit to Hoboken.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

You know what port he's going to try to clear?

[Chief]

No. You know what it means if he gets back?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

The old mob reorganized his old rackets. Open up again.

[Chief]

Happy picture, isn't it?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Yeah, delightful. He could cross from Mexico like a wetback, slip in from Canada, or even.

[Chief]

Chlorofought with phony papers. He's got a lot of connections, George. He's a sharpshooter and he knows all the angles. Once he gets in, we'll have a job finding him. Took us almost six years the last time.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Well, we've got to know where and how he intends to come in.

[Chief]

Whatever it is, it'll be smart. We'll we wait for him to come to us, we're dead. The only way to stop him is to go to him. Watch him all the way.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

You want me to go to Sicily?

[Chief]

Yes. As a matter of fact, George, you're booked out on a night flight to Rome. You won't even have time to go home.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Well, how about COVID credentials?

[Chief]

I'm having those Drawn up. You keep your own name. You know quite a bit about art, don't you? Painting?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Yeah. You might even say I'm a collector. Junior Gray. On my salary, all I can afford is reproduction.

[Chief]

Yes, I know what you mean. When you get to Italy, pose as an art dealer from Boston.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

I don't speak Italian, you know.

[Chief]

You won't be alone. I'm bringing Tony Curto in from San Francisco. He'll be here this afternoon. You'll travel together. When you get to Palermo, check in at the Vittoria. And after that, it's up to you. Frankie, Orlando is an undesirable. We don't want him here. You're the lock on the gate now. Keep it locked.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

I'll try.

[Chief]

Well, good luck, George.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Thanks.

[Chief]

I. I don't suppose I have to remind you Orlando is an old liner in the Mafia.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

I know.

[Chief]

If he knows you're in his way, he'll try to kill.

[George Spencer]

Still reading, hmm?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Oh, yes, yes. Studying up on Sicilian art? Just in case. Our cover credentials won't be much good unless we know what we're talking about.

[George Spencer]

They aren't gonna be any good anyhow, George.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Why?

[Chief]

What's the matter?

[George Spencer]

I was just down on the lounge with Tag.

[Chief]

Who?

[George Spencer]

Big Joe Giovanni.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

I didn't see him get on the plane.

[George Spencer]

He's on. He has his seat back by the tail section. He see you saw both of us, I'm afraid.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Well, I know him from his pictures, but he doesn't know me.

[George Spencer]

He knows me.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

How?

[George Spencer]

I testified against him once at a deportation hearing. He couldn't make it stick.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Any link between Giovanni and Orlando?

[George Spencer]

Both Mafia mobsters. It's a cinch they work together.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

That doesn't mean he knows what we're on.

[George Spencer]

Well, maybe I'd better move to another seat.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Maybe we better split up. No. If he doesn't know me, our sitting together could be accidental. If he saw us together when he came aboard, it would look funny if we split.

[George Spencer]

No, I guess you're right.

[Stewardess]

Attention, passengers. Those are the Italian Alps we now passed over. Thank you.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

We're getting there. Know where Giovanni came from originally? His place of birth?

[George Spencer]

Um, let me see. Oh, yeah. Yeah. Nichols.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Well, he might be just taking a trip. Visit to the home folks or something.

[George Spencer]

Could be. But on the other hand, he may be a contact for Orlando. If he's in on the sneak, we're in trouble.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

We can find out. Stewardess.

[George Spencer]

Stewardess.

[Stewardess]

Can I get you something, Mr.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Stiff? Yes. Mr. Curto and I were wondering about something. Is there Joe Giovanni on the Passenger list, seat 37.

[Stewardess]

He's listed as Giuseppe Giovanni. Funny you should ask about him.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Why funny?

[Stewardess]

Well, a few minutes after we took off, he asked who you were.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Oh, I see.

[George Spencer]

You ask about me too.

[Stewardess]

No, Mr. Cotto. He just seemed to be interested in Mr. Stanson. Is there anything else?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

What's Giovanni's destination? Naples.

[Stewardess]

I'd have to look it up on my seat. In charge of. No, I don't think so. I think he has a through ticket to Palermo, Sicily.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Giovanni had his tagged all right. I could feel his eye on us when we changed planes at Rome and switched to the shuttle to Naples and Palermo. He got off the plane at the Naples stop and sent a cable. He came back smiling. When we finally landed at Palermo, he moved close to us while we were waiting for our luggage.

[Big Joe Giovanni]

Let me offer you a lift into the city government. I got a car outside. Let me see.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

No thanks, Mr. Giovanni.

[Big Joe Giovanni]

Why not? After all, I'm not a stranger. Not to your friend, Mr. Curto.

[George Spencer]

Don't be so polite, Giovanni. On you it doesn't look good.

[Big Joe Giovanni]

I just offered to save you the price of a taxi, Curto.

[George Spencer]

I'd rather pay it. I like fresh air when I ride.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

They're taking our bags off a hand truck now, Colonel.

[George Spencer]

I'll get them.

[Big Joe Giovanni]

Your friend is a difficult man, Mr. Spencer.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Oh, don't let it worry you. He's had a hard life.

[George Spencer]

You think that's funny, eh?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

What do you think?

[Big Joe Giovanni]

I think maybe you and him could smarten up. You're a nice looking guy. Culture and everything. But how much you got in your pocket?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Enough for tomorrow's breakfast.

[Big Joe Giovanni]

What kind of breakfast? Big shot of me. Stop being so smart. Be a little dumb like me. I'll let you in on a good thing.

[George Spencer]

Like what?

[Big Joe Giovanni]

I'll begin a big vacation all over Europe. First class, all expenses paid.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Paid by who?

[Big Joe Giovanni]

By me, Big Joe Giovanni.

[George Spencer]

I got the bags, George.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Throw them away, Kurto. We're going to buy new ones and go on a big vacation. All expenses paid, courtesy of Big Joe Giovanni.

[George Spencer]

Oh, isn't that nice?

[Big Joe Giovanni]

You're two bright kids, eh? You like big lamps.

[George Spencer]

Yeah, and you're the biggest lamp we've had in years.

[Big Joe Giovanni]

Let me tell you something. You push me around in the States, but you're not in the States now.

[George Spencer]

I can push back hard.

[Big Joe Giovanni]

You're an Italian boy yourself. You know what I mean.

[George Spencer]

Get lost, Giovani.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Take it easy, Colonel.

[Big Joe Giovanni]

I give you regards to the statue and everything when I go back. Too bad she won't see you no more.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

I don't think Mr. Giovanni likes this kurto.

[George Spencer]

We got a bad break bumping into him.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

No. Well, not too bad. He told us something.

[George Spencer]

You mean that pre vacation pitch?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Yeah. Pick up the bags and let's get out of here.

[Chief]

Right.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Giovanni's got a clear passport. We've got nothing on him. Why should he offer us a bribe?

[George Spencer]

He doesn't want us around that figure.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

That means the lead we got from the Treasury Department was right. He's no reason to get rid of us on his own account. He just doesn't want anybody around here watching Frankie Orlando.

[George Spencer]

I can't figure how they plan to get Orlando back into the States, but whatever it is, Giovanni's in on the sneak.

[Chief]

All right.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

No airport.

[Big Joe Giovanni]

The city bus here?

[George Spencer]

No, they got one that's probably broken down someplace. There's a cabin. Hello. Come on, climb in, George.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

It's a poor borough substitute for Giovanni's limousine. Yeah.

[George Spencer]

You know, George, Jelani was right about one thing. This isn't a state. Whatever we're going up against, we can't yell for help.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

I've never seen you worried before, Colonel.

[George Spencer]

My old man was born here. I remember all the stories I heard when I was a kid. You notice that gesture Giovanni made with his hand when he left us?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Yeah. When he put his hand to his mouth and bit the knuckle of one of his fingers.

[George Spencer]

Yeah. Yeah. That's the vendetta sign. It's like a promise, an oath. Maybe he won't succeed, George, but Giovanni is Mafia. Before we leave this island, he'll try to kill us.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

When he does try, we'll be getting close to Frankie Orlando.

[George Spencer]

We're already closer than he wants us to get. Keep an eye on the rear window. Next time we see Giovanni in his limousine, he won't be inviting us to ride with him.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Ah, this town's bigger than I thought.

[George Spencer]

Big enough.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

You know where we are?

[George Spencer]

Well, we came into town through Puerto Nueva and now we're on the villa, almost midtown. Quattro Cantoni is about half a mile from here. That's the heart of the city.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

This looks like a shopping district through here.

[George Spencer]

It is.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

It's kind of quiet, isn't it?

[George Spencer]

After midnight. Plane landed a little late. We should.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

What's he stopping for?

[George Spencer]

I don't know, but I'm going to find out. Okay. For Matiaki.

[Old Man]

Up your busy.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

What's the matter?

[George Spencer]

Out of gas? At least that's what he says. Pull the bag down. We can walk the rest of the way.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Looks like we'll have to.

[George Spencer]

Not far. One long block to Quattro Cantoni Hotel is right off the square.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Well, as long as Giovanni and his friends aren't around. Let's go.

[George Spencer]

Yeah, well, I pay this guy here.

[Chief]

You.

[George Spencer]

That's what I was afraid you'd say. Come on.

[Big Joe Giovanni]

Arrival.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

What's the matter, Curto?

[George Spencer]

That cab driver is a bad actor, that's all. He dumped us out here because somebody wanted us dumped here.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

How do you know?

[George Spencer]

Because I shortchanged him on the fair and he thanked me. If he was on the level, he'd scream like an eagle. Let's get off this block. It's too long and there's no cover.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

I was about to ask him why we needed cover, but before I could get the question out, I knew. From not far off, I heard the sound of a large car moving slowly in low gear. Kurto heard it too. The direction of sound is hard to place in the dark. We looked both ways, up and down the street. Then we saw it coming from behind.

[George Spencer]

Us on the far side of the street.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

No headlights. Moving slowly.

[George Spencer]

Moving faster than we are. Look for a doorway or don't.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Increase your pace. Play it easy. They want us to reach that street light up ahead.

[George Spencer]

That's why we better find a doorway here.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

They'd have us like shooting fish in a barrel. Got to get inside one of those stores. It's our only chance for cover.

[George Spencer]

They're all locked by the time we get a door open.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

You can't use a door. Use your suitcase.

[George Spencer]

What do you mean?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

If they come to that light, they'll speed up. Just before they reach it, throw the suitcase through one of those store windows and get in after it. Find the display ledge.

[George Spencer]

Which store?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

That big clothing store. Looks good.

[George Spencer]

Here they come.

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[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

The suitcase.

[Big Joe Giovanni]

Come on.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Behind the ledge.

[Big Joe Giovanni]

Spencer, you hear me?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

We hear you.

[Big Joe Giovanni]

I make my offer once more. You can't get out of there.

[George Spencer]

Maybe not, but you can't come in here either. Unless you like to be dead. Yoani.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

They'Re gone. Quick, grab the luggage and let's get out of here.

[George Spencer]

We don't have to Run.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Well, if we're found here, we'll be held until our credentials are checked. That'll take time, and time is something we haven't got.

[George Spencer]

Well, a couple of hours.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Look, a couple of hours might be all the start Orlando needs.

[George Spencer]

What makes you think he's gonna move that fast?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Your Vanny makes me think so. He tried to knock us out too quickly. If he had time, he'd have waited for a better chance. We missed the police by inches and made the Hotel Victoria just long enough to put our baggage in a room. If we were right about Orlando's move, there was no time for sleep. We knew he'd be living on the grand scale. So just before dawn, we hit the best of the produce markets and started to ask questions. Curto found an old man who knew all the answers.

[Old Man]

Senor Orlando, He's a buy from me all the time. He's a big man.

[Chief]

Yeah, yeah, real big success.

[George Spencer]

We know.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

You know where his house is?

[Chief]

Sure.

[Old Man]

I deliver. Deliver everything. I got the surplus. The jeep I buy from Stata Unit. It's your country.

[George Spencer]

Where's Orlando's place?

[Old Man]

The palazzo, you know. Where's the church?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Which church? Santa Spirito, south of the city.

[George Spencer]

Near Monte Pellegrino. See?

[Old Man]

See, that's the one. Orlando, he's living the palazzo. It's a big white palazzo. After you pass the church, why you ask about him?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

You.

[Old Man]

You know him from someplace?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Yes, yes, we know him. We looked him up once back in the United States.

[George Spencer]

Yeah, for six years we looked him up.

[Old Man]

Hey, you want to ride with me? I. I gonna go by the Orlando's palazzo.

[George Spencer]

What do you say, George?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Side curtains on this Jeep. And it's something Orlando must be used to seeing. Better than driving past the place in the hired car.

[Old Man]

Hey, you gonna come?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Yeah. Grazia. Yeah, we will come. Make deliveries this early in the morning?

[Old Man]

Oh, no, just take a stuff to my store. I deliver later in the daytime. How long since you seen Senor Rolando?

[Chief]

A long time back in the.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

That's right. That's right.

[Old Man]

You don't see him since the accident.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

What accident?

[Old Man]

With the automobile he's got.

[Narrator]

Accident?

[George Spencer]

When was this?

[Old Man]

Oh, two months ago.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Oh, you hurt badly?

[Chief]

No, I don't think so. Only his face.

[Old Man]

I. I see him walk around all with a bandage on face. The first time I see him without the bandage, I don't know who was the same man. He's got no mark on face. He's no scar. You know, he just look like different man.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

That sounds like a plastic surgery Job, Krito?

[George Spencer]

That's what it sounds like, all right. It was bad enough when we knew what he looked like.

[Old Man]

What do you say? What's the matter?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Nothing, Nothing. Just a little problem we've got here.

[George Spencer]

The new face isn't going to hurt his chances any. When he tries to make you sneak.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

He'S got to know what he looks like.

[Old Man]

Now, if you want to see him, you go in. Afternoon after lunchtime. He's a city garden by the Palazzo.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

We'll have to pick up a camera someplace.

[George Spencer]

Fine. How do we get near him with it?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Well, there's a tarpaulin on the back of the jeep. We can throw it over a couple of crates, hide under it, shoot a picture without being seen.

[George Spencer]

We hope.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Hope or not, we've got to get that picture. It took a while before the old man agreed to help us. He didn't understand what we wanted or why we wanted it. And of course, we couldn't tell him. Curto told him something in Italian that seemed to pave the way. And shortly after noon of the same day. We were under a tarpaulin on the rear of the jeep when it stopped near the white palazzo.

[George Spencer]

There's nobody in the garden.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

George thought the old man said Orlando was always there in the afternoon.

[George Spencer]

Well, he was wrong.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Today, Colonel, we're too late. Too late for the top rolling off.

[George Spencer]

How do you know we're too late? What do you see?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

The house door is padlocked from the outside.

[George Spencer]

And the sneaker's on. And we've lost it.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

We've got to stop him, George.

[George Spencer]

He might be headed for any port in Europe by plane or ship.

[Chief]

Which way do we go?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

First we gotta get into that house. Come on.

[George Spencer]

You think he might have left something behind? Something that might tell where he's headed?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

If he didn't, we're finished. He could land at any one of a thousand points in the United States. He's been planning this for a long time. We broke into the house, went through papers and files, desk doors and closets. It looked like a hopeless case. And then we came across something.

[George Spencer]

George, hold it.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Find something?

[George Spencer]

Maybe. Here, take a look at this. A waste paper basket.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Copy of a cable frame.

[George Spencer]

Misspelled a couple of words and crossed them out and wrote them correctly. Must have decided to make a whole new copy before I sent it dated yesterday. Yeah. It's a funny message, though. Meet me with Emerson when you get the word. Remember, Emerson Monahan. Won't do.

[Big Joe Giovanni]

No signature.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

He wouldn't send a cable to the States. Not this kind. Who's it addressed to? Can you make it out?

[George Spencer]

No, it's been blurred.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Emerson or Monahan. Could be code names. Of course, they just might be real. Some contact he expects help from.

[George Spencer]

Attorney, maybe, somebody like that.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

It could be anything. If that cable ever went through, the cable office should have a copy on file. We can get the addressee from them. Come on.

[George Spencer]

Well, if they've got it, we better place a transatlantic call to the chief in Washington.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

That's exactly what I had in mind. He can check on the man who got that cable. And maybe there'll be something in the files on somebody in the records named Emerson or Monahan. We'll have to get back to the States ourselves on the next plane. Whatever plugging we can do now, we'll have to do at the home end.

[George Spencer]

I just had an idea.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

What's that?

[George Spencer]

One thing Orlando will lead is a clear passport.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Probably took Giovanni's and altered it. But I doubt if he'll try to use it to enter the States. He's got something better than that up his sleeve. Maybe a passport stolen or bought from some American stranded over here.

[George Spencer]

Wonder what the chief is going to say when he finds out that Orlando slipped through our hands.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

He'll say what he always says. Find them. The cable had gone through, all right. We got the address, place in New York and forwarded the information to headquarters. Then we boarded a plane for home. The chief met us when we came in at Idlewild Airport.

[Chief]

Now, the address on that cable was phony.

[George Spencer]

You mean it was never delivered?

[Chief]

No, it was delivered, all right. A vacant lot at the address.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

How could delivery be made to a vacant lot?

[Chief]

Messenger boy said there was a man waiting there when he came along looking for the house number.

[George Spencer]

Could the kid describe the man he gave it to?

[Chief]

Oh, vaguely. Not enough to help us. Came through at night. Street was dark. My car's out this way.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Well, how about those two names in the Caleb Ram? Emerson and Monahan? Anything unknown?

[Chief]

No, not a buzz. Nobody but those names ever associated with Orlando or his mob. Too bad we didn't get our tip a little earlier. If we had, I know you would have stopped him.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

If he came in by plane, he's probably already cleared.

[Chief]

Now, I've been watching the planes closely. We fingerprinted a few people we weren't sure of. Orlando will have the same fingerprints he had before. Now, here's the car.

[George Spencer]

Well, unless Orlando's on a boat headed this way, looks like we're licked. Until we find him, I mean, we'll Know he's here?

[Chief]

Won't be hard to tell. We'll be seeing a lot more newspaper stories about white slavery and dope addiction. That's what we're letting ourselves in for if he gets fascist. That's what I hate about it. Oh, come on, George. Come on, snap out of it. Don't look so glum.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

More than a week gone by. Liners coming and going, no sign of it.

[Chief]

There's still the tramp steamers, George. Excuse me, Mrs. Oh, yes.

[Stewardess]

I have those papers ready for signing.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

No.

[Chief]

Which one?

[Stewardess]

Permission for a private ambulance to pick up that polio patient after air rescue service brings in from the sea.

[Chief]

Oh, yeah?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

What's that about, Chief?

[Chief]

It's a girl stricken with polio on the tramp steamer two days out of Port of New York.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Going toward Europe or coming from there?

[Chief]

Coming from Europe. We have a few cases like this every year. If it's serious like this one seems to be. Air rescue sends a seaplane out, picks the patient up and rushes them in for hospitalization. What hospital? Well, that's up to them. Once we clear them for quick admission.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

You mean they come right on through without a careful check?

[Chief]

Oh, George, you know that if the passport's clear. Of course, if somebody's critically ill, you don't want to make them wade through red tape.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Sure, sure, sure. I'm sorry. I just got Orlando on the brain, I guess.

[Chief]

Well, relax. This polio patient's a girl. What is it?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

I'm just wondering who made the diagnosis. Very few doctors on tramp steamers, Chief.

[Chief]

Very few is right.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

And very few girls book passage on tramp steamers.

[Chief]

Has that pickup been made? From the ship, I mean?

[Stewardess]

Yes, sir. I gave a verbal okay to port of New York about three hours ago. They should be in from the return flight in about a half hour.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Where are they landing?

[Stewardess]

Granite. That's where the ambulance will be waiting. You don't want to change the order, do you?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Yes. When that rescue plane comes down to the field, have a department doctor there and a department ambulance. That patient ought to be thoroughly checked by us.

[Chief]

You sure you want it this way, George? I know it won't harm the patient any, but the patient is a girl.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

I know how you feel about it. And if I thought this was a legitimate case, I'd feel the same way.

[Chief]

What's the matter? Why the strange look, George?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

I. I just thought of something. Now I know I'm right.

[Chief]

Well, if you're that sure, let's have it.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

That cablegram, remember it said, meet me With Emerson when you get the word Monon won't do.

[Chief]

Well, you know what it means.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

I know what the names mean. I just remembered. They're both names of respirators for polio victims. Manufacturers names.

[Stewardess]

Why, that's right, Mr. Tremaine. I remember seeing them during last year's polio fund die.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

They're both excellent respirators. But the Monahan is a smaller one. It just covers the chest and torso. That's why the cable said it wouldn't do. Orlando wanted the heavy, full sized Emerson to give him a better cover, a better disguise.

[Chief]

Call Bennett field. Right away, Ms. Walsh. Tell our man there to get a departmental doctor on the field and wait for that rescue plane. Arrange transfer to a regular hospital if necessary. But the patient is not to be moved in that private ambulance.

[Stewardess]

Yes, sir.

[Chief]

Hiding behind a thing like that, polio, using sympathy and a machine somebody's life might depend on to get back into the country and do more damage. That takes a real rat, George.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Well, isn't that what we've been looking for, chief? A real rat.

[Stewardess]

New York on extension three, Mr. Tremaine.

[Chief]

Oh, thank you. This is it, George. Now. Tremaine speaking. Good, fine. Keep him there. Yeah, good idea. I'm with that all the way.

[George Spencer]

Goodbye.

[Chief]

Well, that's it, fellow.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

It was Orlando then.

[Chief]

Yeah, it was him. Pale and hearty, too.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Well, we're not just going to deport him again, aren't we?

[Chief]

No, not just yet. We figure he's healthy enough to do about another 10 years on the rock just to convince him. Then we'll deport him.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Now, can I go home now?

[Chief]

Yes, on the first plane. And thanks, George. It was a good job.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

That's what I'm paid for.

[Chief]

You satisfied?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Yeah. Yeah.

[Chief]

Man like Orlando with his mob could cost decent people millions of dollars in cash and heartaches. You stop him and what do you get?

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

I never thought about it.

[Chief]

Oh, really? I'd like to know.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Oh, I get a lot. Those decent people you spoke about for friends and neighbors. My own family, cigarettes, drive, my own car radio, bottle of beer. Maybe I've no imagination, but you know, I. I can't think of anything else I especially want, can you?

[Chief]

No, there isn't anything else. Well, give my love to lillian and George Jr. Now go home.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

This is Douglas Fairbanks again. The file case of the big sneak completes but another chapter in the distinguished chronicle of our silent men. The special agents of all branches of our federal government who daily risk their lives to protect the lives of all of us. Next week, we will tell you the story of our government's fight against illegal traffic in narcotics in the file case entitled the Empire of Pip the Blind. Another venture undertaken for our protection by the Silent Men.

[Narrator]

The Silent Men is produced and directed by Warren Lewis. Tonight's case was written by Joel Murcott and transcribed in Hollywood. All names and places were fictional. Featured in tonight's cast were Georgia Ellis, Bill Conrad, Paul Dubov, Ted de Corsier and Ramsay Hill. Douglas Fairbanks may currently be seen starring in Mr. Drake's Duck.

[Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.]

Millions of innocent Koreans will die this coming with her unless you give your unneeded clothing today to the American relief for Korea. That's ark. Ark. Unless there are local collection agencies, please send your used clothing prepaid today to ARC Oakland, California or ARC Mass Beth, Long Island, New York.

[Narrator]

Listen again next week and every week to other factual cases involving the law enforcement adventures of the special agents of our federal government. For they are the Silent men.

[Chief]

Now it's the Jubilee show on NBC.