The Whisperer 51-08-05 (06) What Ye Sow

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio - "The Whisperer 51-08-05 (06) What Ye Sow"

Introduction

In the June 9, 2025 release of Harold's Old Time Radio, episode titled "The Whisperer 51-08-05 (06) What Ye Sow" delves deep into the thrilling saga of Philip Galt, a dual-identity hero battling the insidious reach of organized crime in Central City. This episode masterfully intertwines suspense, drama, and strategic maneuvering as Galt, known covertly as The Whisperer, navigates threats against his ally, Anthony Powers, the Chairman of the Liquor Control Commission.

Main Characters

• Philip Galt / The Whisperer: A tenacious young attorney with a hidden identity aimed at dismantling crime syndicates from within.

• Anthony Powers: Chairman of the Liquor Control Commission, steadfast in his fight against the Syndicate’s influence.

• Ellen Norris: Nurse and confidante of Dr. Benjamin Lee, privy to The Whisperer's true identity and a key player in the mission to protect Powers.

• Margaret Powers: Daughter of Anthony Powers, whose safety becomes a pivotal element in the unfolding drama.

• Saugus: The Syndicate’s relentless enforcer tasked with eliminating threats to their operations.

Plot Summary

The Whisperer episode "What Ye Sow" opens with a stark contrast between societal issues and the deep-seated corruption within Central City’s liquor licensing. As Anthony Powers champions the cause against the Syndicate's manipulative tactics to monopolize liquor licenses (00:51), it becomes clear that Powers' integrity puts him directly in the crosshairs of organized crime.

Philip Galt, leveraging his dual identity, collaborates with Ellen Norris to safeguard Powers. The Syndicate, determined to subdue Powers, orchestrates a series of intimidation tactics, including threats and violent assaults (00:51 - 01:23). Philip’s strategic planning becomes evident as he devises measures to outmaneuver the Syndicate’s attempts, even manipulating scenarios to his advantage.

A significant turning point occurs when Margaret Powers unintentionally becomes a target, leading to a harrowing assassination attempt (12:20). This event heightens the stakes, compelling Philip and Ellen to act with urgency. The narrative skillfully builds tension as Philip negotiates with the Syndicate, weighing the risks of exposing their plans while protecting his protégés (06:08 - 19:56).

The climax unfolds during a meticulously planned dinner where Philip and Anthony confront the imminent threat. Utilizing Philip’s legal acumen and his experience in warfare, they outsmart the Syndicate’s tactics, culminating in a dramatic thwarting of the assassination plot (25:00 - 28:38). The episode brilliantly balances action with strategic dialogues, showcasing Philip’s ingenuity and unwavering commitment to justice.

Key Moments and Quotes

1. Anthony Powers Confronts the Syndicate:

   • Anthony Powers (00:51): “He (the Syndicate) owns most of the licenses. Anthony Powers is leaving for the Capitol tomorrow night. He has enough influence to defeat the bill.”

2. Ellen Norris Expresses Concern:

   • Ellen Norris (04:21): “If I were a parent, I'd make definite point to educate them to the inevitable wreckage of addiction.”

3. Philip Galt’s Defiance:

   • Philip Galt (06:15): “And I do know whom you represent. And you can tell the scum that hires you that I don't scare and I can't be bought.”

4. Strategic Planning Against the Syndicate:

   • Anthony Powers (07:03): “Ellen Norris.”
   • Margaret Powers (11:02): “Ellen, you look wonderful. Just like you stepped out of the pages of Harper's.”

5. Assassination Attempt and Immediate Aftermath:

   • Narrator (17:16): “They have fired a burst of machine gun bullets into the car driven by Margaret Powers.”
   • Margaret Powers (17:24): “Maggie, are you all right? I’m wiggling my fingers and toes.”

6. Climactic Confrontation:

   • Philip Galt (24:14): “Tell the syndicate they know where they can go.”
   • Anthony Powers (24:49): “We’ll know for certain tonight.”

7. Resolution and Safety Secured:

   • Anthony Powers (28:38): “The Powers and Margaret are safe. The syndicate is lost.”

Conclusion

"What Ye Sow" is a compelling installment in The Whisperer series, expertly balancing intricate plot developments with rich character interactions. The episode not only entertains but also subtly comments on societal issues such as corruption, addiction, and the importance of integrity. Through Philip Galt's relentless pursuit of justice and the unwavering support of characters like Ellen Norris and Anthony Powers, listeners are treated to a narrative that champions the triumph of good over evil. With memorable dialogues and strategic twists, this episode solidifies Philip Galt's role as a beacon of hope in the murky underworld of Central City.

For those who haven't tuned in, "What Ye Sow" offers a riveting glimpse into the Golden Age of radio storytelling, blending suspense, strategy, and heartfelt moments into an unforgettable auditory experience.

Transcript

[Campaign Representative]

Nearly 90% of kids who vape say flavors are why they do it. A lot of the flavors I've heard are like peach, mango, watermelon. It makes it seem like more childlike and innocent. Oh, I try this once, it won't be that much of a problem. But then eventually it becomes a problem. It's time to restrict the sale of flavored tobacco products in Oregon and protect our kids from nicotine addiction. Urge lawmakers to Pass Senate Bill 702A. Take action at flavorshookoregonkids.org for by the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids Action Fund.

[Anthony Powers]

Saga speaking Sagas Anthony Powers, chairman of the Liquor Control Commission, is planning to defeat the syndicate's whiskey lobby. Anthony Powers, Liquor Control Commission the Syndicate cannot tolerate his further opposition. What are my instructions? You have until 6pm to affect his resignation.

[Narrator]

And if he refuses, kill him. Presenting the Whisperer. Starring Carlton Young. The Whisperer, a brilliant man who, losing his voice in an accident which crushed his vocal cords, worked his way deep within the crime syndicate to help destroy it from within to the underworld. His familiar rattling hiss is the voice of authority to be obeyed without question. Then a miracle of surgery performed by Dr. Benjamin Lee restored his natural voice, enabling him to resume his real identity. Now as Philip G. Aggressive young attorney, he skirts the thin edge of death living his dual role. For as the Whisperer, he sets in motion the forces of the Syndicate in Central City. Then as Philip Galt uses his knowledge to fight the organized network of crime which seeks to control the fate of millions in cities and towns across the nation. The only person besides Dr. Lee who knows the Whisperer's real identity is the doctor's nurse, Ellen Norris. Now she watches as Philip Galt, using his Whisperer's voice, reports to his superiors in the Syndicate.

[Anthony Powers]

Central City reporting. Go ahead, Central City.

[Narrator]

Instructions given to Sagas. Report back when mission is accomplished.

[Ellen Norris]

What has Tony Powers done to the Syndicate?

[Anthony Powers]

Tony?

[Ellen Norris]

I know him very well. He's almost like a father to me. His daughter Margaret and I grew up together. Why are they after him?

[Anthony Powers]

Well, Alan, he's a man of great courage and integrity. As chairman of the Liquor Control Board, he sees to it that no Syndicate underling gets a liquor license.

[Ellen Norris]

And they don't like that.

[Anthony Powers]

Well, Mr. Power's successor is already in the pay of the Syndicate. When the new man in charge, they own most of the licenses.

[Ellen Norris]

Why the time element? Why must it be done by 6 o' clock?

[Anthony Powers]

Alan, in our state, one license is issued for every 2000 persons. The syndicate is lobbying a bill through the legislature to reduce this number to one license for every 500 people.

[Ellen Norris]

Which, of course, would go to their men.

[Anthony Powers]

Yes. Anthony Powers is leaving for the Capitol tomorrow night. He has enough influence to defeat the bill.

[Ellen Norris]

So another honest man is to die so that crooks can reap more dishonest dollars.

[Anthony Powers]

Unless we can find a way to stop them.

[Ellen Norris]

Phil, it's horrible the way that octopus of crime is invading every phase of our lives.

[Anthony Powers]

And we'll continue to until an aroused and enlightened public decides to safeguard their welfare and that of their children.

[Ellen Norris]

Yes, especially their children. Every paper is filled with the stories of juvenile dope addiction.

[Anthony Powers]

And that's the most frightening internal menace of our time, Ellen. I'm afraid it'll continue until each parent awakens to the realization that his son and his daughter are actually targets.

[Ellen Norris]

Well, if I were a parent, I'd make definite point to educate them to the inevitable wreckage of addiction.

[Anthony Powers]

And I'd go a step farther. I'd make certain that within the realm of possibility, I'd always know where they were and with whom and what they were doing.

[Ellen Norris]

My mother's 11 o' clock curfew used to IRP me. But most parental supervision would cut down on several things which corrode and destroy during the recklessness of adolescence. Oh, Phil, I wish you were out of the whole stinking mess. Ellen, I know your association with the Syndicate enables you to fight it.

[Anthony Powers]

But now we'd better do something to safeguard Anthony Powell, if we can.

[Ellen Norris]

Will they try intimidation first?

[Anthony Powers]

Yes. Even the Syndicate tries for murder unless.

[Ellen Norris]

Absolutely necessary they try intimidation. They'll probably include Margaret and their plans. She's the only family he has and he adores her.

[Anthony Powers]

Ellen, you've just made a job for yourself. Phone Margaret. Tell her you've missed her. Invite her for lunch. Anything that will enable you to spend the day with her. Do you have her phone number?

[Ellen Norris]

I've called it a million times.

[Anthony Powers]

Oh, here. Make it a million and one.

[Ellen Norris]

Since you're sending me out to be a clay pigeon, perhaps we'd better make it a shopping tour. That'll give me a chance to buy Maggie a new horoscope. She dotes on astrology.

[Margaret Powers]

Hello.

[Ellen Norris]

Is this a good day or a bad day?

[Margaret Powers]

A good one. But my horoscope says to beware of old friends. Who is this?

[Ellen Norris]

Ellen Norris.

[Margaret Powers]

Ellen, I haven't seen you in years. Dad and I were talking about you just last night. What prompted this wonderful surprise?

[Ellen Norris]

I suddenly had the urge to see you. Are you free for lunch?

[Anthony Powers]

Yes.

[Margaret Powers]

In fact, I Planned a shopping tour this afternoon. We'll make it a day, huh? And try on absurd hats and outrageous prices which we wouldn't be caught dead.

[Ellen Norris]

Sounds like fun.

[Margaret Powers]

Give me an hour and then meet me at Jason's.

[Ellen Norris]

I'll be there.

[Margaret Powers]

Bye. Bye.

[Ellen Norris]

Everything set?

[Anthony Powers]

Good. Now stay with her and wangle an invitation for dinner, if possible. Being a woman, you should have no trouble in carrying on a running conversation for seven or eight hours. I'll call Powers and warn them to take precautions.

[Philip Galt]

Anthony Powers.

[Anthony Powers]

Mr. Powers. The syndicate has marked you for death.

[Philip Galt]

Isn't two coals in an hour, rather putting it on thick?

[Anthony Powers]

If you resign, I don't know you.

[Philip Galt]

Or the other man who called. But I do know whom you represent. And you can tell the scum that hires you that I don't scare and I can't be bought.

[Anthony Powers]

He hung up. Saugers had already called him Ellen. Now, while you're getting ready for lunch, I'll invent a mythical client who has a million questions to ask about applying for a liquor license. I'll give Anthony Powers a bodyguard without his knowing it. Mr. Powers.

[Philip Galt]

Come in, Gold. Come in.

[Anthony Powers]

Thank you.

[Philip Galt]

As I told you when you phoned for an appointment, I am busy trying to get off to the capitol tonight.

[Anthony Powers]

I'm sorry to intrude, but you'll be gone several days and my client is impatient.

[Philip Galt]

We'll go into the library.

[Margaret Powers]

Oh, dad. Dad. Guess who called for lunch.

[Philip Galt]

I have no idea. My Dear, this is Mr. Galt. My daughter Margaret.

[Margaret Powers]

How do you do?

[Anthony Powers]

It's my pleasure. May I presume on a short acquaintance and tell you who your luncheon companion will be?

[Margaret Powers]

Why, of course.

[Anthony Powers]

Ellen Norris.

[Margaret Powers]

How did you know that?

[Anthony Powers]

Well, it's written in the stars.

[Margaret Powers]

Are you interested in astrology? I was born under the sign of Capricorn.

[Anthony Powers]

I was born under Sagittarius.

[Philip Galt]

And I was born under the sign of Pika the Boo.

[Margaret Powers]

Dad is not impressed by horoscopes.

[Anthony Powers]

Do you know Alan, my dearest friend? She told me she was lunching with you.

[Margaret Powers]

Oh, dad. Your train doesn't leave until 10. I'd like to have Ellen and Mr. Gault to dinner, if you don't mind.

[Philip Galt]

If you'll excuse a hasty departure.

[Anthony Powers]

Delighted.

[Margaret Powers]

Talk to us at seven. Ish. Huh?

[Anthony Powers]

Oh.

[Margaret Powers]

Oh, I must run or I'll be late.

[Philip Galt]

Goodbye, Margaret.

[Margaret Powers]

Bye.

[Philip Galt]

Drive carefully. As if she would. Have a seat. Golf.

[Anthony Powers]

Thanks.

[Philip Galt]

I've heard you in court several times. Wanted to meet you before now. Wish we had more time to get acquainted. Drink?

[Anthony Powers]

No, thanks. Before launching into the Business of my client. What are the chances of this bill being lobbied through the legislature?

[Philip Galt]

Once I reach the Capitol, I can defeat it.

[Anthony Powers]

And if something happened to you?

[Philip Galt]

I've already had two phone calls today threatening me?

[Anthony Powers]

Oh, in your place, I'd take them seriously.

[Philip Galt]

They'd never dare make an attempt on my life. The resulting publicity and investigation would endanger the syndicate. Why, they'd never dare.

[Anthony Powers]

Down. Get down.

[Philip Galt]

No need to.

[Anthony Powers]

He missed the second time.

[Philip Galt]

There won't be a second time. That was intended to frighten me.

[Anthony Powers]

That shot must have come from that wooded section. Undoubtedly, since it lies between this house and the city. Whoever fired the shot is probably on his way into town.

[Philip Galt]

Pursuit is useless.

[Anthony Powers]

However, if we made inquiries.

[Philip Galt]

Excuse me. Hello?

[Anthony Powers]

That was just a sample. You want anymore?

[Philip Galt]

If you think your cheap tactics will cause my resignation.

[Anthony Powers]

Tough boy, huh?

[Narrator]

Okay, Powers.

[Anthony Powers]

You ask for it and you'll get it. Powers. If that shot was fired from the woods where could the killer find a phone so quickly?

[Philip Galt]

Around the bend of the road, there's a filling station.

[Anthony Powers]

Well, come on. If the attendant remembers seeing him, we'll at least have some idea of his identity. Welcome.

[Narrator]

Filler up?

[Anthony Powers]

Nothing, thanks.

[Narrator]

Okay, I'll clean your windshield. Hey, how about a complete service today? Lubrication, wash job, front wheel repacked, upholstery dusted, battery water checked. New air put in your tires for only 7.95.

[Anthony Powers]

No, thank you. We.

[Narrator]

We only better have it. You save $4 that way. How about filling the tank?

[Anthony Powers]

This is important.

[Narrator]

Well, you think selling gas ain't? How far would this baby run if nobody showed? Shut up, Huh?

[Philip Galt]

I shut up.

[Narrator]

Oh, hi, Mr.

[Anthony Powers]

Powers.

[Narrator]

Didn't recognize you. You usually come in that old wreck?

[Anthony Powers]

Never mind. About three minutes before we drove in here an hour ago, a man stopped, made a phone call and left.

[Narrator]

Well, how do you know? You an astrologist? Hey, I was born under the sign.

[Philip Galt]

Of Taurus, the bull. Yeah, but tell me about this man.

[Narrator]

Oh, you tell me. He's your guy.

[Anthony Powers]

What'd he look like?

[Narrator]

Well, he was kind of. Kind of?

[Margaret Powers]

Kind of?

[Philip Galt]

Medium, Medium height, medium weight, medium width, medium what?

[Narrator]

Oh, just medium.

[Anthony Powers]

Would you know him if you saw him again?

[Narrator]

Oh, look, mister, I don't miss much.

[Anthony Powers]

Then you would know him? No.

[Philip Galt]

What model car was he driving?

[Narrator]

47.

[Philip Galt]

47 coupe, 47 sedan. 47 convertible. 47 what?

[Narrator]

47 car.

[Anthony Powers]

Oh, great. What color?

[Narrator]

Color?

[Anthony Powers]

Blue, green, red? Two toned?

[Narrator]

No, none of them. No, I think it was.

[Philip Galt]

Was what?

[Narrator]

Dirty. Yeah. I remember trying to sell him a wash job.

[Anthony Powers]

Young man a Woman's life depends upon your remembering these things.

[Narrator]

Well, gosh, Mr. Powers, I'm sorry. But, hey, why don't you ask your daughter?

[Philip Galt]

Why? What has Margaret got to do with this?

[Narrator]

Well, she passed by right after this guy phoned. See, he asked me if that wasn't Margaret Powers, and I said yes. And then he tore out of here.

[Anthony Powers]

Right on.

[Margaret Powers]

Hey, hey, don't forget me now.

[Anthony Powers]

If you ever watch, we're having lunch at Cason's.

[Philip Galt]

Open it up, G. I'll fix any tickets we get. Margaret's my one weakness, and they know it. There's only one thing in the world which could make me resign. Her safety.

[Narrator]

While Phil and Anthony Powers speed toward the restaurant, Margaret Powers, unaware that she is being followed by Saugus, enters the fashionable cafe.

[Margaret Powers]

Ellen. Ellen, you look wonderful. Just like you stepped out of the pages of Harper's.

[Ellen Norris]

I bought this suit the year Harper's was founded. Oh, Maggie, it's good to see you. The last time was the night we split. A blind date.

[Margaret Powers]

As I remember it. They deserved an even worse fate. Famished.

[Ellen Norris]

I'm too excited to be hungry.

[Margaret Powers]

Oh, well, then let's win the shop until we work up an appetite. Okay. There's a certain sales girl I enjoy. And sell them.

[Ellen Norris]

Same old Maggie. Oh, I'm glad we're doing this.

[Margaret Powers]

So am I.

[Ellen Norris]

Let's window shop the horns. Their 200 wash dresses are on sale for 99.50.

[Margaret Powers]

One of my dearest friends has one. It resembles a warmed over potato sack. Imported, of course. Incidentally, I like your Mr. Gold bill.

[Ellen Norris]

Where did you run into him?

[Margaret Powers]

He's out at the house. Oh, let's go in here. They've got the most wonderful freckle cream. It makes fried freckles look like boiled freckles.

[Ellen Norris]

Just so they aren't rare.

[Margaret Powers]

Mr. Garb mentioned it to his friends, so I invited him to dinner tonight. Oh, Using you as a lure. I said you'd be there. Oh, you like him?

[Ellen Norris]

Very much. Oh, look, A clearance on stove only. 3.98.

[Margaret Powers]

That's a steal on stoves. Only I don't need one. Well, let's go see Ms. Mudpack.

[Ellen Norris]

Ms. Mudpack?

[Margaret Powers]

Yes, she demonstrates facial mud. And I detest it. So every time I come in, I insist that she demonstrate it. When her face is all covered, I decide not to buy.

[Anthony Powers]

Look at this.

[Narrator]

Oh, pardon me. I was following too closely on your heels.

[Margaret Powers]

You're the man who followed me into the parking lot.

[Narrator]

I assure you, I followed much worse.

[Anthony Powers]

But you're mistaken.

[Margaret Powers]

Oh, no, I'm not. You almost hooked my bumper.

[Narrator]

My dear young lady, you're mistaken.

[Anthony Powers]

Now you must excuse me.

[Margaret Powers]

Oh, not bad.

[Ellen Norris]

Margaret, do you really think he's following you?

[Margaret Powers]

Well, I hope so. Next to buying a new hat, nothing gives the lift.

[Ellen Norris]

But if he came here from the parking lot.

[Margaret Powers]

Relax, honey. Just coincident. Don't get excited.

[Ellen Norris]

Excited? I guess it's foolish. Let's forget it.

[Margaret Powers]

I think I resent your implication. After all, my equipment isn't so bad.

[Ellen Norris]

Maggie, you'll never change.

[Margaret Powers]

Ellie, I've had a wonderful brainstorm. It's such a wonderful day. Let's get my wonderful car and drive out to the wonderful country casino for lunch.

[Ellen Norris]

Wonderful.

[Margaret Powers]

I'm parked just around the corner.

[Anthony Powers]

Oh.

[Ellen Norris]

Oh, I'm sorry.

[Margaret Powers]

You know, you wouldn't bump into people if you stop looking behind you.

[Ellen Norris]

I'm expecting my dark past to overtake me.

[Margaret Powers]

You're much too young to accumulated a pair.

[Ellen Norris]

I thought I saw someone I recognized.

[Margaret Powers]

Someone I know?

[Ellen Norris]

No, it's. It's someone I don't think you'd care to know.

[Narrator]

A few minutes later, Anthony Powers and Philip Galt double park in front of Chasens. Phil runs quickly into the restaurant and almost as quickly returns to the car.

[Anthony Powers]

She wasn't there. They met in the lobby and then went somewhere else.

[Philip Galt]

Trying to find them in this shopping crowd would be almost impossible.

[Anthony Powers]

That's in our favor. Killer will either lose her in the crowd or be unable to get close enough to harm her and still make his getaway.

[Philip Galt]

Gault, shall I call in the police?

[Anthony Powers]

Whatever you think best might force his hand.

[Philip Galt]

Is she in real danger?

[Anthony Powers]

I don't know, Powers. I can't answer that.

[Margaret Powers]

Relax, Ellen. You're wearing out my rearview mirror.

[Ellen Norris]

Oh, was I doing that?

[Margaret Powers]

You were. But you didn't think I was watching you.

[Ellen Norris]

Just a habit.

[Margaret Powers]

No, I don't think it is. For some reason, you're afraid of that car that's been following us for the last 10 minutes.

[Ellen Norris]

Maggie.

[Margaret Powers]

I'm not stupid, Ellen. If for any reason I'm in danger, tell me about it. Give me a chance to defend myself.

[Ellen Norris]

Maggie, I. I don't know what you're talking about.

[Margaret Powers]

Now, look at it this way. You call after years of silence. A man bumps into me, you become excited and keep looking behind you. If you're not afraid for me, then. Then it leaves only one other thought. A very unpleasant one.

[Ellen Norris]

What?

[Margaret Powers]

You're spotting me for whoever is or should be following us.

[Campaign Representative]

Nearly 90% of kids who vape say flavors are why they do It. A lot of the flavors I've heard are like peach, mango, watermelon. It makes it seem like more childlike and innocent. Oh, I tried this once. It won't be that much of a problem. But then eventually it becomes a problem. It's time to restrict the sale of flavored tobacco products in Oregon and protect our kids from nicotine addiction. Urge lawmakers to Pass Senate Bill 702A. Take action at flavorshookoregonkids.org paid for by the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids Action Fund.

[Anthony Powers]

We interrupt this program to bring you an important Wayfair message.

[Margaret Powers]

Wayfair's got style tips for every home.

[Anthony Powers]

This is Stiles Mackenzie helping you make those rooms sing. Today's Style Tip. When it comes to making a statement.

[Margaret Powers]

Treat bold patterns like neutrals. Go wild like an untamed animal. Print area rug under a rustic farmhouse table. From wayfair.com fierce.

[Anthony Powers]

This has been your Wayfair style tip.

[Margaret Powers]

To keep those interiors superior. Wayfair.

[Anthony Powers]

Every style, every home.

[Ellen Norris]

Maggie, I give you my word that isn't true. I wouldn't do. Oh.

[Margaret Powers]

What is it?

[Ellen Norris]

That car behind us is speeded up. Why?

[Margaret Powers]

It's the man from the department store.

[Ellen Norris]

This is too much coincidence. Turn up the side street quickly.

[Margaret Powers]

He's turning to.

[Ellen Norris]

I don't like this. Maggie, pull over to the curb.

[Margaret Powers]

Too late for that.

[Ellen Norris]

And throw on the brakes and duck.

[Narrator]

You are listening to the Whisperer, the story of Philip Galt, who skirts the thin edges of death, living a dual role. Philip Galt, known to the underworld as the Whisperer, has ordered the syndicate's imported killer, Saugus, to force Anthony Powers to resign from the Liquor Control Board. If Powers refuses to resign, then Saugus is to kill Powers. In his campaign of intimidation, Saugus has fired a burst of machine gun bullets into the car driven by Margaret Powers.

[Margaret Powers]

Maggie, are you all right? I. I'm wiggling my fingers and toes. They say if they work.

[Ellen Norris]

You're alive. Let me know how you come out.

[Margaret Powers]

My horoscope was right. I should be aware of old friends. Ellen, how did you know this was going to happen?

[Ellen Norris]

Maggie, I didn't. Believe me when you bumped into that man. I had a hunch. I watched and saw him follow us.

[Margaret Powers]

I see the syndicate again. They hate my father. Well, what now?

[Ellen Norris]

Let's. Let's venture out. And if our undercarriage doesn't fold, we'll put in a call to Phil and your dad.

[Philip Galt]

G. If Margaret isn't here, I'm calling in the police.

[Anthony Powers]

I think that's very wise. Perhaps that's her.

[Philip Galt]

Or news that she's been.

[Anthony Powers]

Daddy.

[Philip Galt]

Hello, dad. Margaret, are you safe?

[Margaret Powers]

Well, I'm shaken and bruised. How did you know about the accident?

[Philip Galt]

I'll tell you later. Was Ellen injured?

[Margaret Powers]

Oh, no, no. She wants to talk to Mr. Gault.

[Philip Galt]

All right. Ellen wants to talk to you.

[Anthony Powers]

All right. Hello, Ellen.

[Ellen Norris]

Yes, Bill.

[Anthony Powers]

What happened?

[Ellen Norris]

He followed us and shot at us with a machine gun.

[Anthony Powers]

The car was wrecked?

[Ellen Norris]

Yes.

[Anthony Powers]

Where are you now?

[Ellen Norris]

At a residence at the corner of Elman Ackerd.

[Anthony Powers]

Don't either of you move until we get there.

[Ellen Norris]

Dynamite couldn't move me until you get here.

[Philip Galt]

We'll go in your car. Gold.

[Anthony Powers]

Let's take two cars. As soon as I pick up Ellen, I want to get to my office.

[Philip Galt]

All right, I'll just. Now, who is that?

[Anthony Powers]

Probably the syndicate.

[Philip Galt]

Shall I answer it?

[Anthony Powers]

I would.

[Philip Galt]

Hello?

[Anthony Powers]

Been trying to reach you, Powers. The line was busy.

[Philip Galt]

If you harm a hair on my daughter's head.

[Anthony Powers]

Powers, you've had two friendly warnings. Get smart.

[Narrator]

Resign.

[Philip Galt]

No.

[Anthony Powers]

All right, then. Buy your daughter a coffin.

[Philip Galt]

Wait. Give me. Give me time to think it over.

[Anthony Powers]

That's better. I'll call you back in an hour.

[Philip Galt]

Gault, I'm a coward. I can't sacrifice my daughter's life. I'll resign.

[Anthony Powers]

Are you phoning the papers?

[Philip Galt]

Yes.

[Anthony Powers]

Give me an hour, Powers. Just one hour. Maybe I can figure an angle.

[Philip Galt]

What can you do?

[Anthony Powers]

Give me an hour.

[Philip Galt]

All right. One hour. No more. But, Gault, I don't think it'll do any good.

[Ellen Norris]

Still, I don't care what he says. Tony Powers is not a coward. Why, he holds our nation's second highest award for bravery.

[Anthony Powers]

Oh, I didn't know that.

[Ellen Norris]

He served under Ridgeway in World War I. Margaret and I used to play Red Cross nurse. And we decorate the boy heroes by reading the citation and sending the medal on the chest.

[Anthony Powers]

Ellen, if you don't mind, I'm racking my bridge.

[Ellen Norris]

I can't help it, Phil. Your dirty syndicate has won this fight. And a wonderful man's entire life is crashing around his head.

[Anthony Powers]

Ellen, who did you say served under?

[Ellen Norris]

Ridgeway?

[Anthony Powers]

Ridgeway. Ridgeway. Ellen, I've got an idea. Before we go into my office, count under your breath when I say go. When you think 15 seconds of elapsed, say time. What? It's important.

[Ellen Norris]

All right.

[Anthony Powers]

Go.

[Ellen Norris]

1, 2, 3. Time.

[Anthony Powers]

11 seconds. Come on.

[Ellen Norris]

What's it all about?

[Anthony Powers]

You speed it up.

[Ellen Norris]

I played that before. Everyone speeds up.

[Anthony Powers]

I gotta call the syndicate.

[Ellen Norris]

What's it all about?

[Anthony Powers]

They can't kill Margaret Powers that never stop fighting them. He is their real target. Operator New York Circle 1798. Saugus must strike tonight. Tomorrow will be too late, for if Powers reaches the Capitol, he can table that bill indefinitely. Now, I think I know how we can remove Saugus criminally from the scene. Shh. Circle 1798. Central City.

[Narrator]

Go ahead, Central City.

[Anthony Powers]

All attempts to intimidate Powers have failed. Go on. Bowers and daughter are staying on the second floor of their home under heavy guard. Can machine gun be brought to bear? On level trajectory, impossible to use machine gun.

[Philip Galt]

What do you suggest?

[Anthony Powers]

Tonight, Anthony powers will have two guests for two dinner. At exactly 8 o' clock, the French doors upstairs will be opened.

[Philip Galt]

How does this help, Sagas?

[Anthony Powers]

A hand grenade tossed through the French doors will kill everybody in the room.

[Philip Galt]

Congratulations, Little city. Sargus will be so instructed.

[Ellen Norris]

You really succeeded. Now, instead of one person getting killed, we all get.

[Anthony Powers]

Now hurry, Alan. We've got exactly 20 minutes to get back to Powers and ask his cooperation.

[Margaret Powers]

Dad's in the library.

[Anthony Powers]

Is anyone Phone Margaret.

[Margaret Powers]

All the newspapers and wire services.

[Philip Galt]

After you, Ellen G. I was afraid you weren't going to make it. The answer is due in five minutes.

[Anthony Powers]

I have a plan. But first, an experiment. While I hold my watch, you and Margaret count under your breath. When you think 15 seconds have elapsed, say time.

[Philip Galt]

God, you're no fool. There's a reason.

[Anthony Powers]

Yes.

[Philip Galt]

You ready, Margaret?

[Margaret Powers]

I'm ready.

[Anthony Powers]

Get set. Go.

[Margaret Powers]

Time?

[Anthony Powers]

Nine seconds.

[Philip Galt]

Time.

[Anthony Powers]

Eleven seconds.

[Margaret Powers]

So, Mr.

[Anthony Powers]

Powers, you served in World War I?

[Philip Galt]

I did.

[Anthony Powers]

Handle hand grenades.

[Philip Galt]

Yes, of course.

[Anthony Powers]

What is a grenade's greatest danger?

[Philip Galt]

Well, that you throw it too soon and the enemy will grab it, toss it back and kill you with your own grenade.

[Ellen Norris]

Don't they explode on contact?

[Anthony Powers]

No, Alan. They're detonated by a time mechanism a certain number of seconds after the pin is pulled.

[Philip Galt]

I know all this. Go.

[Anthony Powers]

If a man is tossing a grenade which explodes in eight seconds, he'll have an even greater tendency than you just had to rush his count.

[Philip Galt]

Go on.

[Anthony Powers]

To explode at, say, eight seconds, he must throw it on the count of six. You'll probably toss it on the count of three and a half or four. Now, if the enemy, in this case ourselves, were waiting, caught it, there'd be a possible four seconds in which to toss it back.

[Margaret Powers]

Oh, but that's fantastic.

[Philip Galt]

No, no, it isn't either. As an infantry man, I know. Go on.

[Anthony Powers]

Since intimidation failed, you, Mr. Powers, are the prime target of the Syndicate. Now, if you live through the night, if the Killer is destroyed. You can be winning the fight at the Capitol before they can get another murderer to take his place. Now, will you gamble your life on your reflexes and mine, Gault?

[Philip Galt]

I'd gamble. But if the grenade were dropped, only.

[Anthony Powers]

You and I take the risk.

[Philip Galt]

There's a hole in your theory a mile wide.

[Margaret Powers]

What is it, dad?

[Philip Galt]

The murderer's known preference for machine guns. He'd never fool with a grenade. Oh, the hour is up. I'll tell the syndicate they've won. I'm resigning, dad.

[Margaret Powers]

You can't do it. I won't let you. I'd rather be dead than live in a country controlled by gangsters.

[Anthony Powers]

Don't answer it, Pars. Let him ring. Mr. Power's lawyers, like doctors and newspaper reporters, have sources of underworld information that are unimpeachable.

[Philip Galt]

What do you mean?

[Anthony Powers]

Since I left here this afternoon, I know that a grenade is to be thrown into your upstairs dining room at 8 o' clock.

[Philip Galt]

How do you know?

[Anthony Powers]

I can't reveal my source. But I'll stand right beside you and bet my life that the information is true.

[Philip Galt]

I can't take the chance.

[Anthony Powers]

Margaret and Nolan harm will come to Eleanor. Margaret, take the chance with me. If we win, the entire state benefits.

[Philip Galt]

All right, I'll do it.

[Anthony Powers]

You took your own sweet time answering. What's it gonna be, Powers?

[Philip Galt]

Tell the syndicate they know where they can go.

[Narrator]

That's final?

[Philip Galt]

Very final.

[Anthony Powers]

It's your funeral.

[Philip Galt]

Well, Galt, we've committed ourselves. Shake, Shake. I've always wondered how a guinea pig feels.

[Anthony Powers]

We'll know for certain tonight. Phil.

[Ellen Norris]

Margaret said I'd find you up here in the dining room.

[Anthony Powers]

I wanted to recheck our plans for any slip up.

[Ellen Norris]

I. I wanted to talk to you before. Before dinner.

[Anthony Powers]

Sit here, my dear.

[Ellen Norris]

You know, of course, that an hour from now you.

[Anthony Powers]

I know, Phil.

[Ellen Norris]

If anything happened to you, I think I'd die.

[Anthony Powers]

Ellen, there's something I'd like to say to you.

[Philip Galt]

You performed G. I'd like to run through it just one more time.

[Anthony Powers]

I.

[Philip Galt]

Well, can't be too careful, you know. Now, let's see, Ellen, what do you do?

[Ellen Norris]

Margaret and I excuse ourselves after dessert and go into the library.

[Anthony Powers]

Then we push our chairs back and you offer me a cigar. I accept.

[Philip Galt]

We walk to the end of the table and you light my cigar.

[Anthony Powers]

Then we stroll to the French doors. And I open them.

[Philip Galt]

Yes. Then I stop in the center of this one and you stop in the other. It's getting dark already.

[Anthony Powers]

Yes. The killer will probably make his way to that oleander bush.

[Philip Galt]

You mean where that shadow just moves?

[Ellen Norris]

Look out.

[Anthony Powers]

Hatchet. Grab it. I'll get it. I'll get it. This is a rock.

[Margaret Powers]

I threw it. I wanted to test your reaction.

[Narrator]

I wanted to see if either of.

[Margaret Powers]

You could catch it under strain.

[Philip Galt]

But Margaret will be expecting the grenades.

[Margaret Powers]

But you won't know at what second he'll throw it.

[Anthony Powers]

Is there a porch light down there?

[Margaret Powers]

Yes.

[Anthony Powers]

Leave it on. Margaret, I didn't even see that rock until it was already past me.

[Ellen Norris]

Phil, I hope you don't make the same mistake twice.

[Anthony Powers]

Alan, you must make a pretence of eating.

[Ellen Norris]

I can't. This dessert is choking me.

[Philip Galt]

And you too, Margaret. This must appear to be a normal dinner party.

[Anthony Powers]

Two minutes of eight.

[Ellen Norris]

Bill.

[Anthony Powers]

Margaret, you rise.

[Philip Galt]

No, I do as he says. Steady, dear.

[Anthony Powers]

Now you, Ellen. That's it. Smile at us, good girls.

[Philip Galt]

Now, chat as you walk into the library. Go to. Care for a cigar?

[Anthony Powers]

Thank you. Excellent Havana. I'll light yours for you. Now, stroll to the French doors. Keep your eye on the oleander.

[Philip Galt]

I will.

[Anthony Powers]

Now the doors.

[Philip Galt]

Beautiful night. You see him?

[Anthony Powers]

Indeed. It is definitely moving, that bush. Watch it. Watch it. Here it comes. Grab it. I've got it. You drop this. Quick, rabbit. Throw it back.

[Ellen Norris]

Help.

[Anthony Powers]

Dad. Oh, dad.

[Margaret Powers]

Oh, thank God.

[Philip Galt]

There, there, dear. Cry if it'll make you feel better, Ellen.

[Anthony Powers]

It's all over. Everything's all right. Oh, God, yes.

[Philip Galt]

Can I offer you a drink?

[Anthony Powers]

You certainly may.

[Philip Galt]

Good. And while you're getting yours, bring me a double. My legs have just turned to buttermilk.

[Ellen Norris]

Phil, if you ever take chances like that again, I'll disown you.

[Anthony Powers]

You won't have to disown me, Ellen. I'll never live through it a second time. No.

[Ellen Norris]

I suppose you. You've got to call the syndicate.

[Anthony Powers]

Yes. The Powers and Margaret are safe. The syndicate is lost. Hello, operator? Give me New York Circle 1798. Dinner afterwards?

[Ellen Norris]

No, I must rest up for my shopping tour tomorrow.

[Anthony Powers]

But you went shopping today.

[Ellen Norris]

My horoscope says tomorrow is a day of potential explosions. Guard against them. And that's just what I'm going to do.

[Anthony Powers]

How?

[Ellen Norris]

I'm going to buy a bulletproof bag.

[Anthony Powers]

Circle 1798, Central City reporting.

[Philip Galt]

Go ahead.

[Anthony Powers]

Central City. SA held on to grenade too long. State police have taken Powers and his daughter into protective custody. I see. For further instructions, call Denver at midnight. Denver at midnight. THE WHISPERER.

[Narrator]

The Whisperer is based upon stories and characters created by Stetson Humphrey. Any similarity to persons living or dead is purely coincidental. Carlton Young is starred as the Whisperer. Betty Moran is Ellen. Others in the cast were Julius Kralbein, Betty Lou Gerson, Byron Kane and Jerry Hausner. Original music by Johnny Duffy. The Whisperer was written, produced and directed by Bill Karn. This is Don Rickles inviting you to listen next week to another exciting adventure with the whisperer.

[Philip Galt]

This is NBC, the National Broadcasting Company.

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[Anthony Powers]

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