Undercover Carson - AU xx-xx-xx (003) episode 3

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: "Undercover Carson - AU xx-xx-xx (003) Episode 3"
Release Date: May 16, 2025

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Introduction

"Undercover Carson" continues its thrilling narrative in Episode 3, delving deeper into the clandestine operations and intricate relationships that define the protagonist, Carson's, espionage endeavors. Set against the backdrop of Rio de Janeiro, the episode masterfully blends suspense, drama, and the charm of the Golden Age of Radio storytelling.

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Plot Overview

The episode centers around Carson's latest assignment, codenamed Operation Death Ray, which begins with an intriguing encounter at El Rocco Cabrera, a bustling locale where Carson's attention is momentarily diverted by the captivating performances of Fay Corelli, a dancer of irresistible allure. This diversion sets the stage for a series of events that intertwine Carson's personal interests with his professional missions.

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Key Events and Discussions

1. The Mysterious Crossbow Delivery ([00:36] - [04:10])

   Carson recounts how a striking blonde, Helena Jansen, approached him under the guise of a private collector. Helena presents Carson with a 16th-century crossbow, sparking Carson's immediate interest due to his passion for ancient weapons. Despite Helena's evasiveness regarding the crossbow's origins, Carson's curiosity drives him to Helena's shop on Rua de Ouvidor.

   • Helena Jansen: “Mr. Carson, you do not appear to realize that beautiful vase. It was valued at over 2000 cruzeiros.” ([02:04])

   • Carson: “As I said, quite a surprise packet.” ([02:27])

   The interaction reveals Helena's guarded nature and hints at a deeper conspiracy surrounding the crossbow's purpose.

2. Interpersonal Tensions and Clues ([04:10] - [07:15])

   As Carson negotiates the purchase of the crossbow, Fay Corelli unexpectedly arrives, expressing concern for Carson. Fay's presence adds complexity to the narrative, suggesting overlapping interests and potential threats.

   • Fay Corelli: “I was being pursued.” ([05:55])

   • Helena Jansen: “San Salvador Avenue. Not far out.” ([06:51])

   The mention of San Salvador Avenue serves as a pivotal clue, directing Carson and Fay towards their next destination. Helena's reluctance to divulge further information heightens the suspense, indicating that Carson is entangled in a web of deceit and danger.

3. The Deceptive Address and Rising Suspense ([07:16] - [11:04])

   Upon reaching the provided address, Carson and Fay discover that it leads to a hospital, which appears to be a dead end. The realization that the address is a blind precipitates a critical turning point, compelling Carson to abandon the initial pursuit and seek answers elsewhere.

   • Carson: “Operation Death Ray looked like coming to a sudden end.” ([12:49])

   This setback underscores the unpredictable nature of Carson's missions and the constant threat he faces from unseen adversaries.

4. Confrontation and Cliffhanger ([11:04] - [13:34])

   Carson's investigation culminates at the Copacabana apartment of Sir Giles Davenport, where he encounters a mysterious Peon. The Peon's menacing demeanor and cryptic threats introduce a formidable antagonist, hinting at a lineage of violence and a personal vendetta against Carson.

   • Peon: “We both find it interesting, senor. I am interested in you most. You will do as I say.” ([12:25])

   • Peon: “Someday I will call upon you to do a service for me.” ([13:31])

   The episode concludes on a tense note, with Carson facing imminent danger, leaving listeners eager for the next installment.

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Character Dynamics

• Carson: The quintessential undercover agent, balancing his professional obligations with personal interests. His interactions with Helena and Fay reveal his resourcefulness and resilience in navigating complex situations.

• Helena Jansen: A mysterious figure whose protective demeanor conceals ulterior motives. Her involvement with the crossbow shipment suggests a deeper connection to Operation Death Ray.

• Fay Corelli: A multifaceted character whose protective stance towards Carson hints at a deeper relationship. Her presence adds emotional depth and urgency to Carson's mission.

• Peon: Represents the looming threat against Carson, embodying the dangers inherent in espionage. His threats foreshadow future conflicts and challenges.

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Notable Quotes

• Helena Jansen: “A trifle hard not to. Well, let's tug this arrow out of the wall. That's got it.” ([02:32])

• Carson: “So, better the vase than yon arrow disturbing the weave, back and front of this suit I'm wearing. If you follow what I mean, Ms. Helena.” ([02:13])

• Fay Corelli: “I am not happy when I think of you with that one. I do not trust her. She is not open like I am. I am worried for you.” ([05:58])

• Peon: “We both find it interesting, senor. I am interested in you most. You will do as I say.” ([12:25])

• Carson: “I dodged an arrow in the chest because I'd been on the alert. Now I had a knife pressing in my back because I'd been too casual.” ([12:49])

These quotes encapsulate the tension, mystery, and evolving relationships that drive the episode's narrative forward.

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Conclusion

Episode 3 of "Undercover Carson" adeptly balances intrigue and character development, propelling the story into darker and more perilous territories. As Carson delves deeper into Operation Death Ray, the introduction of formidable adversaries and ambiguous allies sets the stage for escalating conflict and deeper revelations. The episode's cliffhanger ensures that listeners remain engaged and eager to uncover the next chapter in Carson's espionage saga.

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End of Summary

Transcript

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[Carson]

Undercover Carson Secret Agent Operation Death Ray Assignment in Rio Operation Death Ray certainly got off to a flying start. But my mind was far, far away from any assignment that night at El Rocco Cabrera. Who wouldn't be watching Fay Corelli throwing those lovely legs around as only a dancer who's part French, part Italian and part pure siren can. Then there was the tall Nordic blond. She came up to my table. She'd read in the newspaper that I was an ardent bird watcher. A collector of ancient weapons and novelty pipes. She had a 16th century crossbow. Was I interested? Yes. So she gave me her card. Helena Old wares. It was around 11 next morning when I called at her shop in Rua de Ouvidor. The crossbow was in a box. Odd, I thought. I was very careful lifting the lid. Just as well. Next thing, a spring snaps, there's a big vase shattered, an ugly arrow quivering on the wall, and the blonde Helena flushed with anger.

[Helena Jansen]

Mr. Carson, you do not appear to realize that beautiful vase. It was valued at over 2000 cruzeiros.

[Carson]

Pity.

[Helena Jansen]

All you say is pity.

[Carson]

So, better the vase than yon arrow disturbing the weave, back and front of this suit I'm wearing. If you follow what I mean, Ms. Helena.

[Helena Jansen]

You will call me Ms. Jansen, if you please.

[Carson]

Please yourself. But quite a surprise packet you presented me with.

[Helena Jansen]

I know nothing about that.

[Carson]

Tut tut.

[Helena Jansen]

I will thank you not to question My word, Mr. Carson.

[Carson]

A trifle hard not to. Well, let's tug this arrow out of the wall. That's got it. 16th century vintage all right. Though the sharpening on The Barb undoubtedly 20th century contemporary. As I said, quite a surprise packet.

[Helena Jansen]

And As I said, Mr. Carson, I know nothing about it.

[Carson]

Come, you must know something. How'd you come by this box of tricks?

[Helena Jansen]

I was merely acting as an agent.

[Carson]

Who for?

[Helena Jansen]

A woman.

[Carson]

Description?

[Helena Jansen]

I'm afraid I cannot Oblige. The whole matter was arranged over the phone.

[Carson]

A voice. What about that?

[Helena Jansen]

Since we're to be so exasperated, Brazilian.

[Carson]

Cultured, that you're only dealing with her.

[Helena Jansen]

Yes. The box was to be delivered by carrier. A truck arrived shortly afterwards. Two men carried the box inside. They put it down when I asked them.

[Carson]

Very gently, no doubt.

[Helena Jansen]

I don't remember the men.

[Carson]

What they look like.

[Helena Jansen]

Just workmen. I'd never recognize them again.

[Carson]

Of course. You didn't open the box?

[Helena Jansen]

I did not ask why? Because, Mr. Carson, the woman expressly asked that the box should remain untouched and unopened until you arrive. She wanted that privilege to be left to you with your strong, experienced hands.

[Carson]

Strong, anyway. What about her address?

[Helena Jansen]

She didn't leave one.

[Carson]

Yeah. Odd, don't you think?

[Helena Jansen]

She explained she was acting on behalf of someone else. Someone who thought you would be interested in adding the crossbow to your collection. She left his address. I have it upstairs on my desk pad.

[Carson]

Must get that. This other person. A man, you say?

[Helena Jansen]

Yes. The woman said that if by any chance you should happen to ask who he was.

[Carson]

If? Go on.

[Helena Jansen]

I was to say that he was formerly an aviator.

[Carson]

Aviator?

[Helena Jansen]

And that he'd served with the air forces of Germany. So I must say, Mr. Carson, that now that I have overcome my resentment of your masterful attitude, I'm rather intrigued.

[Carson]

Intrigued, Ms. Jansen? How?

[Helena Jansen]

Why should you be selected out as a target like this?

[Carson]

Business rival, perhaps.

[Helena Jansen]

But you're with a British meat importing firm.

[Carson]

What difference does that make? Ask him.

[Helena Jansen]

It's a well ordered industry, rarely associated with anything quite so. So sinister.

[Carson]

Well, then, perhaps someone's trying to test my knowledge of ancient weapons. Or perhaps someone was merely hoping to shoot the pipe out of my mouth. Or perhaps even the birds don't want me watching their habits. So they got together like this to warn me off.

[Helena Jansen]

Really, Mr. Carson, there's one thing I loathe. A man being. And that is? Facetious.

[Carson]

Facetious, eh? Oh, well.

[Helena Jansen]

The point is, are you or are you not interested in buying this crossbow? The price asked is 800 cruzeiros. That, of course, includes my commission.

[Carson]

800? That's around £16 sterling. Fair price? Very fair. Take cheque?

[Helena Jansen]

Certainly.

[Carson]

Good. But while I'm writing it. That address.

[Helena Jansen]

Oh, yes, Mr. Carson. I'll slip straight upstairs and excuse me a moment. Can I help you, Madame?

[Fay Corelli]

No, thank you. Then it is Monsieur Carson I wish to fay.

[Carson]

Surprise, Jove. Yes, pleasant surprises. But what brought you here?

[Fay Corelli]

I was being pursued.

[Carson]

Where?

[Helena Jansen]

If you'll pardon me, Mr. Carson, I'll get that address for you.

[Carson]

Oh, yes, thank you. Now for Chick.

[Fay Corelli]

Besides, I am not happy when I think of you with that one. I do not trust her. She is not open like I am. I am worried for you.

[Carson]

Ah, so you came to protect me.

[Fay Corelli]

In a way. But most of all, I come for you to protect me.

[Carson]

Of course, of course.

[Fay Corelli]

You were being pursued by a man in low dress.

[Carson]

Dandies go for you. It seems 800.

[Fay Corelli]

When you are the young girl, you think it is all soap and bubbles to have a good shape and pretty face. But what happened? All the time you are being pestered by the men. Oh, I am so weary of it.

[Carson]

Seems I am not considered any threat.

[Fay Corelli]

Oh, you are an Englishman. You have the. What do you call? Sense of balance.

[Carson]

Been known to over balance that.

[Fay Corelli]

If that happen, I will look after you must try.

[Helena Jansen]

Here is the sheet from the desk pad, Mr. Carson. The address is on it.

[Carson]

Oh, thanks.

[Helena Jansen]

San Salvador Avenue. Not far out.

[Carson]

I intend going there right away. Looking over the place at least. May I leave the deadly weapon here meanwhile?

[Helena Jansen]

If you wish. And should anything further of interest turn up, shall I contact you?

[Fay Corelli]

Do, Monsieur Bruce.

[Carson]

We go right away.

[Helena Jansen]

Mademoiselle Corelli, is it not?

[Fay Corelli]

What? Avit.

[Helena Jansen]

Forgive me for not recognizing you sooner, but clothes do make such a difference. Oh, I saw your dancing routine last night at El Rocco. I rather enjoyed it.

[Fay Corelli]

It is my purpose to entertain, is it not, Monsieur Bru?

[Carson]

Seems so, yes. But what am I going to do with you, Fay?

[Fay Corelli]

You are taking me with you? Of course, silly one.

[Carson]

Good.

[Fay Corelli]

Come along.

[Carson]

I told Fay about the pre arranged archery in the antique shop. Couldn't put her off. First she was aghast. Then she blamed Helena Jansen and threatened to do something to her that wouldn't exactly fit into her dancing act. But she forgot all about it once the taxi stopped outside the address Helena had given me. Joke. We.

[Fay Corelli]

It is so funny.

[Carson]

Mind letting a fellow in on it?

[Fay Corelli]

This place where we.

[Carson]

Stop imposing enough.

[Fay Corelli]

It is a hospital.

[Carson]

Hospital? Maybe they've started a new stunt for recruiting patients then.

[Fay Corelli]

But a maternity hospital? Oh, so perhaps the little baby sends you the crossbow.

[Carson]

Wish it was. But the address is obviously a blind. Let's forget the whole thing.

[Fay Corelli]

Oh, but who sent you the crossbow?

[Carson]

Say Father Christmas. Or say Kris Kringle. Anyway, gorgeous, where do I drop you?

[Fay Corelli]

I adore the gorgeous.

[Carson]

But the drawer city somewhere.

[Fay Corelli]

No, no, I stay with you. But Fay, I have all the time free until I go to El Rocco to dance. And Monsieur Bruce, last night when you drive me to My place. You promised me something.

[Carson]

Fact?

[Fay Corelli]

Oui. How awful. You forget. You tell me all about the beautiful pipes you bring with you.

[Carson]

Oh, yes, pipes. Not etchings, my dear. Well, we'll take a quick look at them, then lunch. How about that?

[Fay Corelli]

Adori.

[Carson]

Right. Drive up. El Presidente Hotel. Know it? This is. We'll go to it now, Fay. This here.

[Fay Corelli]

What is it? Oh, a pipe.

[Carson]

So one at least I can show you before we reach my suite.

[Fay Corelli]

It is divine. The colors. They are so glossy and bright.

[Carson]

Swiss.

[Fay Corelli]

Oh, from Switzerland.

[Carson]

So unusual.

[Fay Corelli]

Pipe is most unusual.

[Carson]

Let me show you. Why, there's. There's a little catch underneath the bow. Listen.

[Fay Corelli]

A musical box. A musical box underneath a pipe.

[Carson]

Like it?

[Fay Corelli]

Oh, so beautiful.

[Carson]

This? Just one of the pipes with a musical box. A better one. Wait till you reach my suite at El Presidente, huh? Here we are. Ample time to see the pipes, drink, then lunch. This looks like the key. Yes.

[Fay Corelli]

Oh, such a lovely sweet.

[Carson]

In you go. Carpets made to walk on.

[Fay Corelli]

Oh, it is like a dream. Oh, say, look. The drawers, the bags.

[Carson]

Why?

[Fay Corelli]

All emptied out, Monsieur Bruce. Everything in great upset.

[Carson]

Visitors, seems.

[Fay Corelli]

Visitors?

[Carson]

Burglars.

[Fay Corelli]

Oh, then you must.

[Carson]

Don't touch the phone.

[Fay Corelli]

I sent for the gendarme.

[Carson]

Don't want them. Sorry. I'm afraid the luncheon must be postponed. I must check through things, then report the matter in person to the company. This is something I wasn't expecting. There was nothing missing, Only Fay, as I went as quickly as possible to the Copacabana apartment of Sir Giles Davenport. We both had an interest in bird watching, and this was really something for the fanciers. No one answered. I don't like waiting in vestibules. I have a certain pipe that is readily converted into a skeleton key. There seems to be no one around, so I set to work. Easy does it. Just another little twist.

[Peon]

You are perhaps aware of something pressing into your back, senor?

[Carson]

I seem to be feeling something.

[Peon]

Then we will make certain. So it is as sharp as it feels, senor. And be warned that it is held in the hand of one who comes from a long line of peons that affect him. Indeed, senor. And it is a fact also that for two generations ago, my ancestors were complete savages. They killed for the delight of it, senor. Often I myself have such yearnings.

[Carson]

Interesting.

[Peon]

We both find it interesting, senor. I am interested in you most. You will do as I say. Or in a brief moment, I will use this knife as my ancestors would already have done. You will do as I say.

[Carson]

I dodged an arrow in the chest because I'd been on the alert. Now I had a knife pressing in my back because I'd been too casual. Operation Death Ray looked like coming to a sudden end.

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[Peon]

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[Peon]

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