Adventure Of The Pharaoh’s Staff by The Adventures Of Frank Race

Summary

Relic Radio Thrillers: "Adventure Of The Pharaoh’s Staff" - A Detailed Summary

Release Date: August 1, 2025
Episode: Adventure Of The Pharaoh’s Staff by The Adventures Of Frank Race
Host/Author: RelicRadio.com

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Introduction

"Adventure Of The Pharaoh’s Staff," the 36th episode of "The Adventures Of Frank Race" series, unfolds as a gripping tale of mystery, intrigue, and suspense set against the backdrop of post-war Egypt. Hosted by RelicRadio.com, this Old Time Radio thriller transports listeners to the heart of Cairo's ancient secrets and modern-day dangers.

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Plot Overview

Setting the Stage

The story kicks off with Frank Race, a former attorney turned adventurer, alongside his partner Mark Donovan, as they embark on an investigation that intertwines ancient Egyptian artifacts with contemporary crime. Their mission centers around the recently unearthed tomb of Pharaoh Farat Ankarmen and the coveted Staff of the Pharaoh, a solid gold artifact embedded with precious jewels valued at a staggering one million simoleons.

The Mysterious Encounter

During their flight from London to Lisbon en route to Cairo, Frank and Mark encounter Linda Marshall, an enigmatic woman claiming to be an Egyptologist. Frank observes her allure despite her modest appearance, remarking, "She didn't look like an Egyptologist... the charm she might lend to a French bathing suit" (04:04). Linda reveals her connection to the museum curator, Charles Marshall, and urges Frank to ensure the safe transfer of the Pharaoh's staff to prevent her father's demise: "I want the Staff of the Pharaohs to pass into your hands before it costs my father his life" (04:30).

Unraveling the Mystery

Upon arriving in Cairo, the trio discovers that the staff has been stolen, and Charles Marshall has been murdered. Suspicion quickly falls on David Horton, Charles's partner, prompting Frank to delve deeper. The narrative thickens with introductions to Lou Tibbett, the lead archaeologist, and Hassim, an assistant connected to Egypt's royal families. Tensions escalate as Frank uncovers financial troubles faced by Dave Horton, hinting at motives rooted in desperation and greed.

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Key Characters

• Frank Race (Paul Dubov): The protagonist, a sharp and resourceful investigator determined to uncover the truth.

• Mark Donovan (Tony Barrett): Frank's laid-back partner, whose skepticism provides a counterbalance to Frank's intensity.

• Linda Marshall (Elizabeth Root): A captivating woman with a hidden agenda, driven by loyalty to her father.

• David Horton (Rosemary Carver): The curator's partner, whose financial woes hint at possible involvement in the theft and murder.

• Lou Tibbett (Gunner Peterson): The archaeologist overseeing the excavation, whose actions become pivotal in the unfolding mystery.

• Hassim (Byron Kane): An assistant with deep ties to Egypt's royal lineage, adding layers to the investigation.

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Notable Scenes and Quotes

Flight to Cairo: A Tense Introduction

As Frank and Mark discuss the peculiar insurance case involving an artifact from a millennium-old tomb, Mark humorously muses, "So don't tell me the Brent o' Clock Insurance company is now going to pay off an insurance policy on the life of a guy which has been dead for a million years" (02:14). This sets the stage for the blend of ancient mystery with modern-day consequences.

Linda Marshall's Revelation

Linda's intensity is palpable when she insists, "I want the Staff of the Pharaohs to pass into your hands before it costs my father his life" (04:30). Her urgency highlights the high stakes involved in the quest for the ancient artifact.

The Murder Unveiled

Upon discovering the theft and murder, David Horton confronts Frank, leading to a tense exchange:
"You could use a million dollars, Dave. You're broke from speculation. I checked." (17:32)

Frank's Revelation

In a climactic confrontation, Frank pieces together the betrayal:
"You helped me? Because I was blocking your exit and you knew it was all over. Your outside boy killed your partner, Tibbett." (25:20)
This revelation underscores the intricate web of deceit surrounding the stolen staff.

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Character Dynamics and Development

Frank and Mark: A Complementary Duo

Frank's analytical mind and Mark's practical skepticism create a dynamic partnership. Their interactions often blend tension with camaraderie, evident when Mark quips, "This is a sort of Portuguese bar and grill I discover when I'm here during the war" (03:16), highlighting Mark's ability to find levity in dire situations.

Linda Marshall: The Complex Ally

Linda's dual role as both ally and potential antagonist adds complexity to the narrative. Her genuine concern for her father juxtaposed with her enigmatic behavior keeps listeners guessing her true intentions until the final act.

David Horton: From Ally to Adversary

Dave Horton’s character arc reveals his transformation from a cooperative curator to a desperate individual willing to sabotage the mission for financial gain. His confrontation with Frank exposes the moral decay driven by his financial ruin.

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Climactic Conclusion

The tension reaches its peak as Frank uncovers the truth behind the theft and murder. The revelation that Lou Tibbett's death was orchestrated to cover up the heist leads to a final showdown with David Horton. In a dramatic twist, Frank confronts Linda, unveiling her true allegiance and the lengths she went to protect her father's legacy:
"I think I do. It was because I was on the right side of the law, wasn't it, Eve? The safe side. That's all you want." (25:35)

The episode concludes with Frank securing the Staff of the Pharaohs, ensuring its safe return to the Cairo Museum, and bringing the culprits to justice, albeit with personal revelations and strained relationships.

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Themes and Insights

Greed and Corruption

At its core, the episode explores how financial desperation can corrupt individuals, leading them to betray trust and ethics for monetary gain. David Horton’s fall from grace exemplifies this theme.

The Allure of Ancient Mysteries

The fascination with ancient artifacts and their inherent value, both culturally and financially, drives the narrative forward. The Staff of the Pharaoh's mystical and monetary worth serves as the central pivot around which the plot revolves.

Trust and Deception

The intricate dance of trust and deception among characters like Linda Marshall and David Horton highlights the complexities of human relationships in high-stakes environments.

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Conclusion

"Adventure Of The Pharaoh’s Staff" masterfully blends historical intrigue with modern-day mystery, delivering a compelling narrative that keeps listeners engaged from start to finish. Through well-developed characters, tense dialogues, and a tightly woven plot, the episode exemplifies the best of Old Time Radio thrillers. Relic Radio Thrillers continues to captivate audiences with its ability to transport them into the heart of adventure and suspense.

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Transcript Excerpts

1. Mark Donovan on Insurance and Antiquity:
   "So don't tell me the Brent o' Clock Insurance company is now going to pay off an insurance policy on the life of a guy which has been dead for a million years." (02:14)

2. Frank's Observation of Linda:
   "She didn't look like an Egyptologist... the charm she might lend to a French bathing suit." (04:04)

3. Linda's Plea:
   "I want the Staff of the Pharaohs to pass into your hands before it costs my father his life." (04:30)

4. David Horton's Accusation:
   "Are you calling me a thief?" (17:50)

5. Frank's Confrontation:
   "You helped me? Because I was blocking your exit and you knew it was all over. Your outside boy killed your partner, Tibbett." (25:20)

6. Climactic Line from Frank:
   "I think I do. It was because I was on the right side of the law, wasn't it, Eve? The safe side. That's all you want." (25:35)

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Final Thoughts

"Adventure Of The Pharaoh’s Staff" exemplifies the enduring appeal of Old Time Radio dramas, blending historical fascination with the timeless allure of mystery and suspense. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, this episode promises an engaging journey into the depths of Cairo's hidden treasures and the dark motives that surround them.

For more thrilling adventures and classic radio dramas, visit RelicRadio.com and explore their extensive collection of Old Time Radio content.

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Transcript

[Narrator]

Relicradio.com presents stories of mystery and intrigue, espionage and suspense. Hear tales of ticking time bombs, mysterious crime scenes and cloak and dagger action. This is Relic Radio Thrillers. Welcome back to Relic Radio Thrillers. We're going to hear from the Adventures of Frank Race this Week. Series of 43 episodes that aired over all major networks at one time or another. This is episode 36 from November 10, 1949. Here's the adventure of the pharaoh's staff.

[Paul Dubov]

The Adventures of Frank Race. Starring Paul Dubov. With Tony Barrett as Mark Donovan. The war changed many things. The face of the earth and the people on it. Before the war, Frank Race worked as an attorney. But he traded his law books for the cloak and dagger of the oss and when it was over, his former life was over, too. Adventure had become his business. The Adventures of Frank Race. And now we join Frank Race for the adventure of the pharaoh staff.

[Frank Race]

Dead men and the worldly possessions they leave behind are often the concern of an insurance investigator. But this case had one peculiar aspect. The dead man in question had been dead for centuries. Mark Donovan was so intrigued by it that he forgot his dislike for air travel. As we winged our way from London to Lisbon, second leg on our flight from America to Cairo, Egypt. Hey, look.

[Mark Donovan]

You mean to say they dug up another one of them? All Egyptian guys wrapped up in bandages.

[Frank Race]

You put it rather crudely, Marcus, but that's it.

[Mark Donovan]

So don't tell me the Brent o' Clock Insurance company is now going to pay off an insurance policy on the life of a guy which has been dead for a million years.

[Frank Race]

No, Marcus. I'm afraid Brenner Clark wasn't in business when Farat Ankarman was roaming the face of the earth.

[Mark Donovan]

Fat rat.

[Frank Race]

Who? Farat Ankarmen. She was a king of Egypt. One of the pharaohs. It's his tomb that the archaeologists have just uncovered.

[Mark Donovan]

All right, that's great. So what was he insured for?

[Frank Race]

He wasn't insured, but Renner Clark has insured a few items that were dug up in the tomb. Items of fabulous value, if the estimates are correct. Especially the staff of the pharaohs.

[Mark Donovan]

Well, of course, but what's that?

[Frank Race]

It's a staff made of solid gold and mounted with precious jewels. Takes a strong man to lift it, according to the appraisal reports.

[Mark Donovan]

And that is the thing which Branner.

[Frank Race]

Clark insured to the tune of 1 million simoleons, Mark. It's in the Cairo museum being created for shipment to London. And until it gets there, it's our job to Stay right with it.

[Mark Donovan]

Yeah, and to me, that sounds like a very dry job. So I am going to make the most of the present and sashay to the club lounge and quaff a few. Do you wish to accompany me?

[Frank Race]

No, thank you. It'll also be a sleepless job when we get there. I'll settle for the proverbial 40 winks.

[Mark Donovan]

Okay. Be back in a while.

[Frank Race]

I closed my eyes and relaxed. But I didn't sleep. From the seat behind us, I'd been catching the subtle and intoxicating scent of Taboo. It grew stronger and I opened my eyes to find that the wearer of the scent had moved into the seat Mark had vacated.

[Linda Marshall]

Am I disturbing you?

[Frank Race]

Isn't that your intention? Not that I mind.

[Linda Marshall]

I couldn't help overhearing part of your conversation about the Staff of the Pharaohs. You see, I'm an Egyptologist.

[Frank Race]

She didn't look like an Egyptologist. A woman steeped in the history and lore of an ancient civilization buried beneath centuries of sand. Even the drape of a conservative tweed skirt and jacket couldn't hide the charm she might lend to a French bathing suit.

[Linda Marshall]

My name is Linda Marshall. You're on your way to meet my father, Charles Marshall.

[Frank Race]

Why, yes. He's curator at the Caro Museum. A talent that I rate second to his ability to produce a very beautiful daughter.

[Linda Marshall]

You'll pardon me if I don't acknowledge the compliment. Mr. Ace, I just want you to promise me that you'll let nothing delay you on this journey. I want the Staff of the Pharaohs to pass into your hands before it costs my father his life.

[Frank Race]

During the rest of the journey to Lisbon, I made several attempts to engage her in conversation, but she turned away, tight lipped and frightened. When we hit the landing strip at Lisbon, she was first out of the plane and I saw her speak to a man and a woman at the gate. They walked into the airport restaurant and Mark and I followed. Our plane for Cairo wasn't due for two hours.

[Mark Donovan]

I don't know. The dame really thinks her old man's gonna get knocked off. Wouldn't you think she'd talk?

[Frank Race]

She might be afraid of sounding foolish.

[Mark Donovan]

Now, what's foolish about a guy getting killed?

[Frank Race]

It depends on who or what she thinks is gonna do the killing. There are many legends about curses in the tombs of the pharaohs.

[Mark Donovan]

Wait a minute.

[Frank Race]

Spook stuff.

[Mark Donovan]

Ghosts and such.

[Frank Race]

Something like that.

[Mark Donovan]

So why don't you tell me this before you drag me away from Brooklyn? You know I don't like no ghosts. Especially ones which can't speak English.

[Linda Marshall]

They're terrible.

[Mark Donovan]

Look, there's the dame now at the corner table with her friends.

[Linda Marshall]

And she is giving you the big wave.

[Frank Race]

Yes. Rather a sudden change of heart.

[Mark Donovan]

I think she wants you should go over there. Well, go ahead, go ahead. I will amuse myself at Jayco's while you are making friends and influencing people.

[Frank Race]

Jayco's?

[Mark Donovan]

Yeah, yeah, I get around too. This is a sort of Portuguese bar and grill I discover when I'm here during the war. See you later.

[Frank Race]

Get back in time for the plane.

[Mark Donovan]

Don't worry.

[Linda Marshall]

Don't worry.

[Frank Race]

Hello.

[Linda Marshall]

Hello, Race. I think you'll be interested in meeting these people. Mr. And Mrs. David Horton, Mr. Race.

[David Horton]

Just call me Dave. Everybody does.

[Linda Marshall]

And call me Eve.

[Frank Race]

The name fit her. Eve. There was something new and wild and awakening about her. Her mouth was like ripe fruit. And she had a way of making everything about her disappear.

[David Horton]

They all do it.

[Frank Race]

I beg your pardon.

[David Horton]

All men stare at my wife.

[Linda Marshall]

Dave, please, I'm blushing.

[Frank Race]

I'm sorry. Please forgive me.

[David Horton]

Oh, don't blame you and me.

[Linda Marshall]

I do. You didn't stare at me, Race.

[Frank Race]

You didn't give me a chance.

[Linda Marshall]

Where did your friend go? Mr. Donovan, isn't it?

[Frank Race]

Yes, Mark Donovan. He has a fondness for a spot called Jaco's.

[Linda Marshall]

Dave and Eve are going to Cairo too, Race.

[Frank Race]

Taking a look at the pyramids?

[David Horton]

No. Same as you. Taking a look at the staff of the pharaohs.

[Linda Marshall]

Now, don't look at me like that, Race. I haven't been tattling. Dave financed the expedition. The staff really belongs to him.

[David Horton]

Yes. I'm turning it over to a museum. Of course. My contribution to culture.

[Linda Marshall]

Oh, bother. Culture and the pharaohs and the pyramids. I want to walk. Care to join me, Race? May I call you Race? I like it.

[Frank Race]

You may. And I would definitely care to join you.

[David Horton]

Well, then go ahead. Give Linda and I a chance to talk.

[Linda Marshall]

Well, you'll have to excuse me for a moment, Dave. I have a telephone call to make. Greetings to a friend of father's at the Lisbon Museum.

[David Horton]

Well, run along, all of you. I'll have a drink.

[Frank Race]

Eve Horton and I walked down the path to the far end of the field and watched the ships come in for landings. She held tight to my arm. Then suddenly, when there was nobody around, she swung about facing me, not holding my arms, but in them.

[Linda Marshall]

Grace, you'll be with us, won't you? Promise.

[Frank Race]

You're trembling. What's wrong?

[Linda Marshall]

My husband. He frightens me. And the staff. There's a Curse on it. Promise.

[Frank Race]

It's part of my job. I promise.

[Linda Marshall]

Not that way. Promise me. Promise me.

[Frank Race]

She pressed that mouth to mine and I was ready to promise anything. But when we broke it up, I wasn't happy. I thought of her husband and what his life must be like married to a woman like this.

[Linda Marshall]

You're angry with me.

[Frank Race]

No, I was just thinking.

[Linda Marshall]

I won't do that again. Unless you want me to. Let's walk some more.

[Frank Race]

We walked around the field three times, the better part of an hour. Then we came back into the restaurant.

[David Horton]

I say, there they are at last.

[Linda Marshall]

Oh, Race, We've been looking all over for you.

[Frank Race]

We were just walking.

[Linda Marshall]

There's a call for you from Jayco's. Your friend has been hurt.

[Frank Race]

Don't go. I've got to you. Mark. What's wrong?

[Hassim]

Oh, I can't hurt.

[Frank Race]

They said you were hurt.

[Hassim]

Hurt? Oh, no, no. Feel no pain.

[Frank Race]

You ought to try one of these bruise. Let me taste that.

[Hassim]

It's good.

[Frank Race]

It's drugged. It's drugged. Come on, Marcus. I'm getting you out of here. Somebody doesn't want us on that plane to Cairo. Whoever didn't want us on that plane got his wish. It was taking off when we reached the field and I watched it until it was airborne. I made a quick check of all schedules on all Continental airlines. By taking a plane from Lisbon to Rome and picking up an Italian flight to Cairo. We could pull in only five hours behind the plane we had missed. We did, but it was too late. I knew it as soon as we reached the Cairo museum and walked into the curator's office.

[Hassim]

I knew it.

[Linda Marshall]

I knew it would happen there. Go ahead and cry. It'll do you good.

[David Horton]

Grace. A fine time for you to turn up.

[Frank Race]

What's happened?

[David Horton]

The staff of the pharaohs is gone and Linda's father has been murdered.

[Frank Race]

When did it happen?

[David Horton]

A couple of hours ago. If only we had arrived sooner.

[Hassim]

It would have made no difference. It was fated.

[Frank Race]

Who are you?

[Hassim]

I am Hassim. I am a student. I was assistant to the curator.

[David Horton]

Assistant? And probably assassin too.

[Frank Race]

Don't be so liberal with your opinions, Dave.

[Linda Marshall]

He's right. You've no right to be making such accusations.

[Hassim]

I am connected with the royal families of Egypt, sir. I do not like thieves plundering the graves of my ancestors.

[David Horton]

Don't you call me a thief.

[Frank Race]

Don't be a fool, Dave.

[David Horton]

Let me go.

[Frank Race]

Hasim, please leave. I'll talk to you later.

[Hassim]

I go because you ask. I will help you find the truth. But remember, Mr. David Horton. I do not leave through fear. We shall meet again when you wish.

[Linda Marshall]

Hello, Race.

[Frank Race]

Hello.

[David Horton]

Oh, sit down, sit down. Glad you could join us for dinner.

[Frank Race]

Where's Linda?

[Linda Marshall]

Trying to get control. She'll join us in a little while.

[David Horton]

I say, find out anything from the police?

[Frank Race]

No trace of anything yet. The staff is still around. Thing like that isn't concealed easily. And it would be too risky to move it for a while.

[David Horton]

Oh, there's Tibbett now.

[Hassim]

Eve.

[David Horton]

I'll get him. Excuse me for a moment, please. I say, Race, he's a great guy. You love meeting him.

[Frank Race]

Who's Tibbett?

[Linda Marshall]

Lou Tibbott, an archaeologist. He was in charge of the excavating. He and Dave are old friends.

[Frank Race]

I see.

[David Horton]

What do you mean?

[Frank Race]

Don't make a scene, Dave. Old friends, huh? Hello, Eve.

[Linda Marshall]

Hello, Lou.

[David Horton]

Lou.

[Frank Race]

Tibet.

[David Horton]

Frank Reese.

[Frank Race]

How are you? How do you do? Here comes Linda.

[Linda Marshall]

How are you, honey? I'm better. Please sit down.

[Frank Race]

I understand that you were in charge of excavation at Karat's tomb, Tibbett.

[Mark Donovan]

Yes.

[Frank Race]

I'd like to see this spot. Where is it? Near the pyramids, about nine miles out in the desert. Can we drive out? Sure. Morning. All right. Why not tonight?

[Linda Marshall]

At night you wouldn't be able to see anything.

[David Horton]

Oh, yes, they will. Most of the digging is done at night when the sun is down. Power generator for light and cooler, you know.

[Frank Race]

Yes, it would be, Dave. After dinner. Tibbet, if you like.

[Mark Donovan]

Well, just like chasing Rommel again. A jeep in the desert.

[Frank Race]

The excavation is right over the next dune by the lights. We walked to the excavation and down uncovered steps into the catacombs of the tomb. Arab workmen were digging carefully and others were carrying the dirt out in baskets. This was the main tomb chamber. I don't expect we'll find much in the others. They're digging out now. What's through this passage? The minor chambers we've already excavated. You want to look through them? Yes. Now, here, take these flashlights.

[Paul Dubov]

We pull the lighting equipment out of there.

[Mark Donovan]

Hey, fellas, look. I think I'm gonna go back and wait under the stars. I like stars. This grave stuff is definitely not for me to place my cave in.

[Frank Race]

It's well beam mark. Take an explosion to cave it in, I explode.

[Mark Donovan]

Easy. I'll see you later upstairs.

[Paul Dubov]

Wait here, Race.

[Frank Race]

I'll lead him back to the main chamber.

[Paul Dubov]

I'll be right here.

[Hassim]

Welcome to the tombs of my ancestors. Mr. Race.

[Frank Race]

Who is it?

[Hassim]

Turn your light this way.

[Frank Race]

I see.

[Hassim]

Yes, Mr. Race. And you were right. The tombs Are solidly beamed. It would take an explosion.

[Frank Race]

What do you intend to do, hussy?

[Hassim]

What do you intend to do, Mr. Race?

[Paul Dubov]

We'll return to the Adventures of Frank Race in just about one minute. And now back to the Adventures of Frank Race.

[Frank Race]

Just choked me. I was buried under seemed to be tons of earth. But I dug my way out, got to my feet in the darkness. I'd lost my flashlight. The air was silent, black and oppressive. Then I heard a sound in the tomb. Hasim. Where are you? I'm trying to find you, fella. Oh, here. Here you are. Take it easy. I'll dig you free. Are you injured badly?

[Hassim]

I do not.

[Frank Race]

I think so. Good. This beam is pinning you down. I'll raise it. You try to slip out. Ready? Yes.

[Linda Marshall]

No.

[Hassim]

I am free now.

[Frank Race]

Rest a little, Hasim. Then we'll try to get out of here.

[Hassim]

We cannot dig out, Mr. Ace. Not before the air is gone. For you, I am sorry. For myself, I do not care.

[Frank Race]

But there are diggers outside. They'll get to us if somebody wishes.

[Hassim]

Them to do so. But I am afraid the order will not be given. Relax. And do not think it is an honor to make this step into eternity in the company of the pharaohs.

[Frank Race]

He was right, and I knew it. Exertion would only use up the air faster. It was little enough. I kept track of the time by the luminous dial on my wristwatch. Two hours passed. 3 5. The heat was stifling. I felt weak, dizzy. Hasim, listen. They're digging.

[Hassim]

You dream.

[Frank Race]

Hasim. Hasim. All right, all right. What?

[Mark Donovan]

Another cloth here.

[Frank Race]

Yeah.

[Linda Marshall]

Give me.

[Mark Donovan]

Come on. Come on, Race.

[Frank Race]

Come on.

[Mark Donovan]

Come on, kid. Take it easy. Atta boy. You're breathing again.

[Frank Race]

Come on.

[Mark Donovan]

There you go.

[Frank Race]

Where's Hasim?

[Mark Donovan]

And a local constable come and haul them off. Or even Kim too. You all right?

[Frank Race]

Yeah.

[Mark Donovan]

Got him. Put bomb in the place.

[Frank Race]

He didn't do it. He was in front of me. And the explosion came from behind me, blocking the exit. Oh, hello, Eve.

[Linda Marshall]

All right, darling, I'm so glad you're all right.

[Mark Donovan]

Yeah, yeah, yeah. Fine, fine. Be glad. But don't smooch him right now, huh? Smarter the guy for good.

[Linda Marshall]

I'm sorry. I didn't think.

[Frank Race]

Where's Tibbett?

[Mark Donovan]

He's the guy which went back into town to call a cop so they could take Hassam away.

[Frank Race]

He did that before we were dug out? Yeah.

[Mark Donovan]

I was too busy digging to notice.

[Frank Race]

And he knew Hasim was in there. We gotta get back into town. Mark.

[Linda Marshall]

Grace, you mustn't exert yourself.

[Frank Race]

Yes, baby, I must. Because it wasn't official police who picked Hasim up. We'll be lucky if we find him alive. My hunch was only too right. Hasim was not in the Cairo jail and Tibbett hadn't placed a call there. I sent Mark on a hopeless search of the city. Then I located Linda Marshall and Dave Horton in the bar at the Hotel Grace.

[David Horton]

Good to see you, old man. Eve told us what happened.

[Frank Race]

Anybody tell you how it happened?

[Linda Marshall]

Yes. Carson blew up the passage.

[Frank Race]

Wrong. Tibbett blew up the passage.

[Linda Marshall]

But why would he do a thing like that?

[Frank Race]

Because he had no intention of letting the staff of the Pharaohs get to London. And I've got a sneaking suspicion he isn't the only one.

[David Horton]

Are you implying that I'm involved in this?

[Frank Race]

What makes you ask that?

[David Horton]

Are you calling me a thief?

[Frank Race]

Keep your voice down. And your hands.

[David Horton]

I'll show you.

[Frank Race]

That's only a sample. I don't like scenes. He's a strangely sensitive man. Good night.

[Linda Marshall]

Oh, wait for me, Race. I'm going with you.

[Frank Race]

She followed me into the lobby and just as we rounded a bunch of pilot plants the revolving door at the entrance turned and Eve Horton stepped in. But this was one time when the sight of her didn't blot out everything else. Pulling away from the curb was the car she had stepped out of. Behind the wheel was Lou Tibbett. I made a dash for the door, but as I brushed past important, I stumbled on the sturdier plants and managed to avoid falling. But it was all the time Tibbett needed. He was gone.

[Linda Marshall]

Oh, Race, I. I tripped you. I'm sorry. She did it deliberately.

[David Horton]

I didn't.

[Frank Race]

That's not important. Tibbett was in that car and you let him get away. Why?

[Linda Marshall]

Because he hasn't done anything.

[Frank Race]

I believe that when I see Hassim alive.

[Linda Marshall]

He is alive. Tibbett faked that police call so we could get Hassim away from the tomb without interference. Hasim belongs to a student group that isn't too popular with the natives. The explosion was an accident.

[Frank Race]

Why didn't Tibbett come and tell me about it himself? And what makes your husband so sensitive about the word thief?

[Linda Marshall]

Race, please.

[Mark Donovan]

Please.

[Linda Marshall]

She's fainting.

[Paul Dubov]

I've got her now.

[Linda Marshall]

Sit her down here. I'll get. I'll get some help.

[Frank Race]

Never mind. She'll come to in a minute. If she isn't all right this minute.

[Linda Marshall]

What do you mean?

[Frank Race]

Well, maybe she's fainted. Maybe she's faking in any case, I'm going to do a little checking on her husband. I went to the nearest cable office, shot a few inquiries to key men in London and waited for the answers to come back. When they came, they cleared away part of my mental sandstorm. Dave Horton was in tight quarters financially. He'd been speculating in money exchanges, especially the British pound sterling in the evaluation. It knocked the props out from under him. I went back to my room to think it over.

[Hassim]

Race.

[Frank Race]

Hussim. He had been beaten. Horribly beaten. I knew immediately that I was looking at a man who was dying. There was nothing I could do for him.

[Hassim]

I said I would help you find the truth.

[Frank Race]

Who did it? Hasim?

[Hassim]

I. I did not tell them. I.

[Frank Race]

Race you. Holy cow.

[Mark Donovan]

I better go.

[Frank Race]

No. No. Mark. He's dead. Get a car. Fast.

[Mark Donovan]

Where are we going?

[Frank Race]

After the staff of the Pharaohs. It's back in the tomb of King Farah Tankamon.

[Mark Donovan]

Almost there. Just over this doing. Look, did Hasm tell you the thing was here when he passed out?

[Frank Race]

I have a hunch that's what he tried to tell me as he died.

[Mark Donovan]

Hey, other cars here. Doesn't that one belong to Dave Horton?

[Frank Race]

Yes. The other belongs to Lou Tibbett. Nobody's working. The shift must have been called off.

[Mark Donovan]

Wait a minute. Somebody's working. I come in between those two cars. Hey, that's the mug who slipped me that Mickey at Jaco's.

[Frank Race]

What do you guys want here? We're just tourists here. Then start touring. Go on.

[Mark Donovan]

Hey, hands.

[Frank Race]

Take a mark.

[David Horton]

Yeah, get off.

[Frank Race]

Remember your private lead.

[David Horton]

Down, Mark.

[Mark Donovan]

Hey, nice kick.

[Frank Race]

Get his gun in time up for the police. Then follow me and hurry. The cars made of the cinch that my hunch was paying off. I went into the tomb, but the lights were out. I groped about in the dark until a flashlight glared. I pulled tight into an alcove in the war and waited.

[David Horton]

Let me go.

[Frank Race]

Take it easy, Dave.

[David Horton]

Race, I'll.

[Frank Race]

Now that your lights are out, friend, I'll borrow that flash. I groped again, keeping the light off until I might need it. I took a turn off the main chamber and stumbled over something cupped the light and flashed it. It was the body of Lou Tibbott. Something had crushed in the back of his skull. He. He was dead. The rest of the chambers were empty. But I finally found what I wanted. The narrow opening through which Hasim and I had been pulled from the cave in. I slipped through quietly. There was a faint light from the small room at the turnoff. Somebody Was digging. I came in behind the sound. All right, Linda found it, didn't you?

[Linda Marshall]

Yes, Doctor. I was just digging it out. I'm glad you're here to take possession, Race. Now the trouble is all over.

[Frank Race]

Not quite, baby. There's a bill to be collected for a couple of murders.

[Linda Marshall]

I. I hope Eve isn't mixed up in this.

[Hassim]

I like her.

[Frank Race]

Sometimes murders are committed by very lovable people. We'll see as soon as we get this staff back to the Cairo museum. All right, Mark, put the staff of the Pharaohs on that table this time. We'll stay with it.

[Linda Marshall]

Okay.

[Frank Race]

Oh, brother.

[Mark Donovan]

I told you this thing was heavy. It wasn't lying.

[Linda Marshall]

Hey, look.

[Mark Donovan]

What'd you make Linda and Dave go into the next room for?

[Frank Race]

Because I had the police bring Eve in, too. I'm going to put a jigsaw puzzle together. You can listen from behind the door, but make sure nobody gets through here. If one of them try to crash.

[Mark Donovan]

Out, they will run into a mighty left hook, I assure you.

[Frank Race]

Good boy, Marcus. Sit tight.

[David Horton]

Grace. What's the meaning of bringing Eve here and having off detained?

[Linda Marshall]

Take it easy, Dave.

[Frank Race]

Thank you, Linda. The reasons are obvious. Somebody in this room is a murderer and a thief.

[Linda Marshall]

No.

[David Horton]

I told you never to use that word.

[Frank Race]

Sit down, Dave. Why were you angry with Tibbett when you went to get him that night at dinner? Just a few seconds after you told me what a great guy he was.

[David Horton]

Because he said I shouldn't be upset about the theft of the staff. He said I could cash in on the insurance.

[Frank Race]

You could use a million dollars, Dave. You're broke from speculation. I checked.

[David Horton]

I said I'd give the staff to a museum and I meant it. I don't get my money that way.

[Frank Race]

Then why does the word thief bother you so much?

[Linda Marshall]

Stop it.

[Frank Race]

Stop it.

[Linda Marshall]

I'll tell you why, Race. My father was a wealthy man. Then he went broke in the market crash in 1929. He was used to living well, so he got a job and embezzled. He died in prison.

[David Horton]

Race, I'll kill you for this.

[Frank Race]

I'm sorry, but it's necessary. Go on, Eve.

[Linda Marshall]

Now I've seen my husband live his fortune and I was afraid. Afraid of what he might do. I wanted you around, Race, to prevent it. That's why I kissed you.

[David Horton]

You what?

[Frank Race]

Take it easy, Dave, and try to understand it. I think I do. It was because I was on the right side of the law, wasn't it, Eve? The safe side. That's all you want.

[Linda Marshall]

The safety of being honest Yes, I love my husband. Truly, Dave, I do love you. Tell me you didn't do it.

[David Horton]

There, there, you poor frightened girl. Of course I didn't.

[Frank Race]

Now, Race, perhaps you understand why the word made me so sensitive. I do. And I apologize to both of you. Humbly.

[Linda Marshall]

Wait a minute, Race. Don't tell me you're falling for this cornball act.

[Frank Race]

Yes, Linda. Because they're telling the truth.

[Linda Marshall]

Then who?

[Frank Race]

You, baby.

[Linda Marshall]

But I found the staff and helped you out with.

[Frank Race]

You helped me? Because I was blocking your exit and you knew it was all over. Your outside boy killed your partner, Tibbett. And you knew that the thug was knocked out too, or I couldn't have gotten in.

[Linda Marshall]

The curator was my father, Race, Remember? I wouldn't have killed him.

[Frank Race]

I doubt it, baby. He wasn't your father. And you're not an Egyptologist. If you were, you'd never have said we wouldn't be able to see anything at the tombs at night. You'd have known that most of the digging was done at night. Under generated light to escape the heat of the desert sun.

[Linda Marshall]

Very clever, Race. But have you got an answer for this?

[Frank Race]

A gun. How charming.

[Linda Marshall]

I'm going to back out of here. Don't follow me.

[Paul Dubov]

Come to me.

[Mark Donovan]

Arms.

[Linda Marshall]

Wife. Let go of my arm.

[Frank Race]

The police are outside. Marcus, take her to the. Yeah.

[Mark Donovan]

Easy. Wild chat. I will do that with pleasure. You know something? These dames. Dames. Always beefing and crying about something.

[Paul Dubov]

The Adventures of Frank Ray starring Paul Dubov with Tony Barrett as Mark Donovan comes to you from Hollywood. Others heard in tonight's cast were Elizabeth Root, Rosemary Carver, Gunner Peterson, Byron Kane and Jay Novello. This series is written and directed by Buckley angel and Joel Murcott. The music is composed and played by Ivan Ditmars. Be sure to be with us again this time next week for another dramatic chapter in the adventures of Frank Race. Art Gilmore speaking. This is a Bruce Ells product.

[Linda Marshall]

Sam.

[Narrator]

There's more Frank Race, Relic Radio Thrillers and all of the other podcasts at the website relicradio.com. you'll find our shoutcast stream there as well with even more Old time radio and a donate button. If you'd like to help support this and all of that, give that button a click. Your support makes all of this possible. Thanks to those who have. Thanks for joining me this week. Be back tomorrow with the horror and next Friday with our next episode of Relic Radio Thrillers.