
Relic Radio Thrillers features a story from Counterspy this week. From October 6, 1949, here's The Case Of The Genuine Counterfeit. Listen to more from Counterspy https://traffic.libsyn.com/forcedn/e55e1c7a-e213-4a20-8701-21862bdf1f8a/Thriller895.mp3 Download Thriller895 | Subscribe | Spotify | Support Relic Radio Thrillers
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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. Thanks for joining us joining me this week. Our story this time is the case of the genuine counterfeit from counterspy series that debuted in May of 1942 over NBC stations. Our story today is from October 6, 1949.
Pepsi Announcer
Pepsi Cola P E P S I that's your smartest colabi. Pepsi Cola presents counter spy.
David Harding
Washington calling David Harding. Counterspy. Washington calling David Harding.
Harry Peters
Counterspy Harding Counterspy calling Washington.
David Harding
United States counterspies especially appointed to investigate.
Pepsi Announcer
And combat the enemies of our country.
David Harding
Both at home and abroad.
Pepsi Announcer
Tonight, the case of the genuine counterfeit. Another counterspy report to the American people brought to you each Tuesday and Thursday by Pepsi Cola.
Harry Peters
Pepsi Cola hits the spot. Two full glasses. That's a lot.
Pepsi Announcer
That's right, you heard what they said. Two full glasses of spot sparkling Pepsi from one big 12 ounce bottle. You're getting an extra glass full. And what a delicious glass full. The most refreshing, delightful cola that ever tickled your taste. You can't top Pepsi's tangy flavor. And that big, big bottle saves you money goes twice as far. Pepsi's America's big big favorite and America's biggest cola value. So why take less when Pepsi is best? Whenever you reach for refreshment, remember why.
Harry Peters
Take less when Pepsi's best?
Pepsi Announcer
And now to counterspy. A little over six weeks ago in a small mid European country, a man, the private secretary of a diplomat named Vorne, lay on the kitchen floor of his own apartment. His head twisted to one side, revealed a dark bruise on one temple. And as he lay unconscious, a steady stream of gas hissed from the open jets of the stove. Gas which filled the room and swirled around the flickering pilot light of the stove.
Mr. Vorne
Rudolph. My. My friend, what are you doing here?
Rudolph
Waiting to see you, Mr. Vaughn.
Mr. Vorne
Such a pleasant surprise. Oh, come into the apartment.
Rudolph
Thank you.
Mr. Vorne
I returned home from the funeral of poor Carlos. You heard of his horrible death in the gas explosion, did you not?
Rudolph
Yes, Mr. Voni, I heard.
Mr. Vorne
So tragic. And right before I am to leave for America.
David Harding
Oh, come in, come in.
Mr. Vorne
But let us not speak of that. Tell me, my friend, why are you here?
Rudolph
This paper will explain. You see, I am to replace Carlos as your secretary.
Mr. Vorne
You giving up your position in the government? But why, my friend?
Rudolph
Because I am your friend and I realize your danger.
Mr. Vorne
Danger to me?
Rudolph
Mr. Vorni, I don't believe the Death of your secretary was the accident? It seemed to be, Rudolph.
Mr. Vorne
You think the gas explosion was.
Rudolph
It may have been an attempt to get at you.
Mr. Vorne
But why? I'm a poor old man. Unimportant.
Rudolph
Would your country send you on an important mission like this if they thought that.
Mr. Vorne
That is why they sent me. Since our ambassador in the United States is ill, I sail to America. Arrange for the engraving of bonds for our government. And bring them back personally. All merely an honor to an old man.
Rudolph
$3 million merely in honor. The engraving of the bonds on which the future of our nation depends.
Mr. Vorne
Well, perhaps the fact that I avoid publicity. And am not known outside our country was an added reason. A drink?
Rudolph
Thank you. I warn you, Mr. Varney. Don't underestimate your own importance or your danger.
Mr. Vorne
Your drink, Rudolph.
Rudolph
Thank you. The death of your secretary, the sudden illness of the ambassador in Washington. I feel it may all be a part of a dangerous plot.
Mr. Vorne
Good heavens. Very well. If you're right, I'd better ask the government for an armed guard on my trip.
Rudolph
Mr. Vonnie, I have another suggestion.
Mr. Vorne
What is it, Rudolph? If you know any way, my suggestion.
Rudolph
Is that you and I exchange identities. That you travel as my secretary, Rudolph. And I as the envoy Vornish.
Mr. Vorne
You would take that chance?
Rudolph
Yours is the life of value to our country. You must get those bonds through.
Mr. Vorne
Very well. You feel that strongly about it, Rudolph? Very well. You shall be the special envoy Vorne. I shall be your secretary, Rudolph. On our voyage to the United States.
Rudolph
I thought I'd find you here at the stern.
Mr. Vorne
Oh. Oh, rudolph. I mean, Mr. Horny. Yes, yes. The water churning from the propellers intrigues me. Turbulence. Dangerous, like the world we live in. Have you had dinner?
Rudolph
The mess they serve on this ship under the guise of food. But I did have an interesting dinner, partner.
Mr. Vorne
Another gourmet like yourself?
Rudolph
No. That American girl. The one we watch come aboard with the invalid in the wheelchair.
Mr. Vorne
Ah, yes. The pretty redhead.
Rudolph
Her name's Myra Stevens. And the man in the wheelchair is her uncle. She's bringing him back to the United States for treatment.
Mr. Vorne
You seem to have learned a great deal about her.
Rudolph
Well.
Mr. Vorne
If I were 20 years younger, I'd be giving you competition myself.
Rudolph
Well, shall we go to our cabin and finish packing? We dock early.
Mr. Vorne
Very well.
Harry Peters
Very well.
Mr. Vorne
By the way, we are to be officially met when the ship docks.
Rudolph
Officially met?
Mr. Vorne
A radiogram came this morning from Mr. David Harding. Of the American Counterspice Counter Spies. Yes. He's to meet us personally. His agency may take over the job of guarding Me and you won't have to worry anymore.
Myra Stevens
Please, please, could you. Oh, Mr. Bornet.
Rudolph
Ms. Stevens, what's wrong?
Myra Stevens
My uncle. He's fallen from his wheelchair and I can't lift him back. Would you and your secretary be willing to help me? Cabin's right down here. He was trying to reach his medicine when he fell. But here. This is our cabin, all right.
Mr. Vorne
Now, if Ms. Stevens, your uncle's not on the floor, he's there on the bed. I thought that.
Harry Peters
Good work, Myra.
Rudolph
The old fool never knew what hit him.
Myra Stevens
That padded pipe was perfect. Not a mark on him.
Rudolph
We can't afford any slips, not with $3 million at stake. How about your uncle? On the bed. Is he still unconscious?
Myra Stevens
I was found out of him. Since I brought him aboard, that stuff you gave him works like a charm. Who is he, anyway?
Rudolph
Just a sailor I found in the docks. But he served his purpose here. Give me a hand with old Vorny. We'll put him in the wheelchair like this.
Myra Stevens
Why don't we get rid of him? What are we saving him for?
Rudolph
I have many uses in mind for old Vorny. Now, Myra, does a hypodermic needle bother you?
Myra Stevens
Well, if you don't needle me with it. How long will that stuff keep the old men unconscious, Rudolph?
Rudolph
Long enough for you to get them ashore tomorrow into your apartment. That should keep him quiet. Now, get me a blanket.
Myra Stevens
Sure. The one I wrapped around the other man.
Rudolph
Wrap it around Vorny. Now, as far as anyone knows, this is the same man you brought aboard. Your poor invalid uncle while you go.
Myra Stevens
On posing as warning. Pretty slick riddle.
Rudolph
I planned it tonight.
Myra Stevens
One thing I don't get, though. Everyone in the United States will accept you as Vorne. Why did you have to forge a duplicate order for those bonds?
Rudolph
My dear Vorne was sent out to have $3 million worth of bonds printed. With that duplicate letter, I can have 6 million made.
Myra Stevens
6 is more than 3. So far, so good.
Rudolph
At the right time, I send 3 million back to my country, as they expect. But for myself, I have 3 million more perfect bonds. Genuine counterfeits, Duplicates, that is. To be sold here and there around the world for my own profit.
Myra Stevens
And mine.
Rudolph
You'll get your share.
Myra Stevens
Okay, mastermind, how do we get rid of this sailor?
Rudolph
We'll wait till the deck is empty and then send our sailor on his last sail without the boat. Up to the rail, Myra.
Myra Stevens
Okay. Hurry up.
Rudolph
Now, you understand what you're to do? After we toss him over, I call man overboard. Then I tell the captain I saw my secretary Rudolph fall over the side of the ship.
Myra Stevens
And I back you up so nobody can doubt your story. Okay, let's get it over with.
Rudolph
All right. One, two, three.
Myra Stevens
Hello, Uncle.
Harry Peters
Mr. Harry Peters.
David Harding
Mr. Harry Peters. Encounter Spies, Detective Department. Please report to Mr. Harding's office at once.
Harry Peters
Report to Mr. Harding.
David Harding
What's up, Mr. Harding?
Harry Peters
A job for you, Peter.
David Harding
Oh, I got my bulletproof vest.
Harry Peters
No, this is an easy one. I just want you to meet a ship with me in New York and then arrange for the safety of the foreign envoy. Who's aboard? Another throneless king, a man named Vorne. He's been sent here to arrange the printing of some bonds for his country.
David Harding
Why here, Dave?
Harry Peters
To cut the chances of counterfeiting. His country's economy is already shaky and they're issuing these bonds to add to the Marshall Plan aid we're already giving them. Any counterfeits might topple the government.
David Harding
So we play nurse maiden.
Harry Peters
Well, it's vitally important for the United States to see that his government doesn't fall. These bonds may be the deciding factor. We'll fly up to New York now. The ship docks tomorrow morning. Coming, Peter? The person said Mr. Barnay went into this restaurant. What?
David Harding
Oh, sorry, Dave, but that redheaded girl.
Harry Peters
The one who left the ship with the man in the wheelchair.
David Harding
Now if foreign envoys look like that.
Harry Peters
Girl, we'd have even more international complications. Come on, romeo. Purser said Mr. Vor was wearing a white suit.
David Harding
Over there, Dave, corner table.
Harry Peters
He looks rather young, doesn't he? Judging from what I've heard of.
David Harding
Borne, get the diamond stick pin in his tie.
Harry Peters
Dad. Mr. Vorne.
Rudolph
Ah, you must be Mr. David Hardy.
Harry Peters
Well, I'm sorry we missed you when you came down the gangplank. This is my assistant, Harry Peters.
Rudolph
I'm very pleased to meet you both. Won't you join me?
Harry Peters
Thanks.
Rudolph
You probably think it odd of me to eat as soon as I land, but you see, I consider myself a gourmet. And the food on the boat.
Harry Peters
I understand. I hope the voyage was good otherwise, though.
Rudolph
On the contrary, Mr. Harding, it was tragic. My secretary, Rudolph was lost at sea.
Harry Peters
Lost?
Rudolph
He fell overboard. Evidently an attack of business. Poor Rudolph.
David Harding
Strange we hadn't heard of it, Mr. Harding.
Rudolph
Well, death on the high seas ship. A foreign registry, I suppose, Mr. Peters, they would not trouble your counter spies with such a minor though tragic accident.
Harry Peters
Is everyone sure it was an accident?
Rudolph
It was seen both by myself and another passenger, so there was no question. It was definitely an accident.
Harry Peters
Was he a close friend, Mr. Borney.
Rudolph
Very.
Harry Peters
See. Well, my business in seeing you this morning, Mr. Borney was to welcome you to our country and arrange whatever protection you desire while you're here.
Rudolph
Protection? Mr. Harding? I have a great deal to do in your country. Great deal to see.
Harry Peters
Well, that's right. This is your first time outside your own country, isn't it?
Rudolph
Yes, and I'd rather not have your agents tagging after me. I'm sure you understand.
Harry Peters
Well, that's up to you. Of course. If there's anything at all we can do for you, please call on us.
Rudolph
Shall we go, Peters?
David Harding
Why the frown, Dave?
Harry Peters
Peters, did you notice the way Vorney was eating?
David Harding
He takes his food seriously.
Harry Peters
No, I mean the way he handled his silverware. He held the fork in his right hand eating, but when he wanted to cut he changed the fork to his left.
David Harding
Don't we both do the same thing?
Harry Peters
Of course, we all do in this country. But in the one Vorne comes from a country he's never supposed to have left before. They do it in the opposite way. Keeping the fork in the left hand all the time.
David Harding
No, but damn.
Harry Peters
I'll admit it's a small thing, Peters, but there are others too. Considering the importance of his mission, we can't take any chances.
David Harding
What could be wrong?
Harry Peters
I don't know yet, but I will. Peters, we're going to have to be awfully careful because of his diplomatic standing. But we're going to do a bit of checking on Mr. Vorney.
David Harding
You were right, Dave.
Harry Peters
Buying proof of foul play. And Borne's secretary falling overboard at sea.
David Harding
Not yet. Thorndike is checking that angle now. But I checked in a recent news reports in Bornet's country and I found that the secretary before this one also died under peculiar circumstances.
Harry Peters
Oh?
David Harding
Short time before vorn a sail he died in a mysterious gas explosion at his home.
Harry Peters
There's certainly something very fishy about Borne that isn't explained by his sea voyage.
David Harding
Wait, Dave, there's more. I found that only three pictures of Born A have ever been taken. The only copies of them in the main office of their big news service are mysteriously missing from their files.
Harry Peters
Peters, this is another proof that we ought to have a better, quicker means of getting photographs of people we're interested in. If we only had some sort of miniature camera that could be issued as standard equipment for every counter spy would.
David Harding
Certainly simplify our work, Dave.
Harry Peters
Without question. A camera small enough to fit in the hand with a simplified foolproof mechanism as simple as the old style box cameras that a Kid could operate.
David Harding
Why not send instructions through to Washington tonight? Photo lab could begin work on it now.
Harry Peters
I'm going to do it. But we had a camera like that on this case. Well, we haven't do the best we can now. First of all, Peters, keep on with this investigation of the high mortality rate in Vorn. A secretary.
David Harding
Right.
Harry Peters
Also, I want a tail put on Born a our best man, Peters. This man's clever. Plants, amenities, hotel too.
David Harding
I'll see to it, Dave.
Harry Peters
And I want all our field officers alerted to try to locate somebody, a relative, a friend who can identify Forney.
David Harding
Dave, the captain of the ship identified him. At least he's the same man who came aboard.
Harry Peters
We can't pass up any chances. And I also want to know whether Vorney has ordered those bonds for his government. If so, I want delivery to installed until we complete our investigation.
David Harding
I'll handle that myself.
Harry Peters
And no, assign J4 to it. I've got another job for you, Peters.
Rudolph
A special job.
Pepsi Announcer
In just a moment we'll return to counterspy. Brought to you by Pepsi Cola.
Harry Peters
Pepsi Cola hits a spot. Two full glasses, that's a lot.
Mr. Vorne
Lots more value, lots more zest.
Harry Peters
Why take less when Pepsi's best?
Pepsi Announcer
More, more and more among fellows and girls, among mothers and dads. You hear that sane and sensible question. Why take less when Pepsi is best? No budget, no allowance Ever had a better friend than tangy sparkling Pepsi Cola. Because one big 12 ounce Pepsi bottle gives you two delicious drinks. That's twice as much tangy Tate. Twice as much delicious Pepsi to go just twice as far. That's why more and more families say why take less when Pepsi is best? Yes, families like yours and mine, families all over America, they're all saying, why take less when Pepsi is best?
Harry Peters
Pepsi Cola hits the spot. Tastes terrific when you're hot. More and better than the rest. Why take less when Pepsi's best?
Pepsi Announcer
Today, tomorrow always get America's biggest cola value. Take home a carton of six big big Pepsi bottles. Insist on Pepsi at the store and say Pepsi at the fountain, say Pepsi at the stand, say Pepsi whenever you reach for refreshment, Remember, why take less when Pepsi's best? And now back to counterspy. A man stands outside the door of a New York apartment hotel, looks around, then pushes the doorbell.
Myra Stevens
Udo, come here. What's wrong? When you phone me first?
Rudolph
Has anything odd happened here, Myra? Any repair men trying to get in? People with the wrong apartment number? Noise on the telephone?
Myra Stevens
No, no, nothing. Think somebody's on to us?
Rudolph
Think Harding and His counter spies are suspicious. I told you about my lunch.
Myra Stevens
Harding didn't say anything.
Rudolph
He watched me very closely. And now I've been followed every time I leave my hotel.
Myra Stevens
And you came here.
Rudolph
Don't worry. I shook them off. But we must move fast.
Myra Stevens
You mean run away?
Rudolph
Give up $3 million in the year's work? No, I've already ordered the bonds and just need a little more time.
Myra Stevens
Suppose they dope out you're not born, eh, Myra, darling?
Rudolph
Suppose I prove that I am. Is Von he still safe in the next room?
Myra Stevens
Sure.
Rudolph
Let's go see.
Myra Stevens
All right. Started to wake up about an hour ago. I had to give him another hypo.
Rudolph
All right, but from now on, only half a shot.
Myra Stevens
Yeah. Look how peaceful he is. If we cut down on the dose, he might wake up and make a lot of noise.
Rudolph
And keep him tied and gagged. But I need him conscious enough to sign some papers. Now, where's that gold cigarette case of his?
Myra Stevens
Here in the drawer. I was keeping it.
Rudolph
You mean you were going to steal it. I gave you a chance at part of $3 million and you waste time on small change. Myra, you're still just a nightclub girl at heart.
Myra Stevens
Hey.
Rudolph
Now hold his arm while I get his fingerprints all over the cigarette case.
Myra Stevens
But good will I do? Your prints will be on it, too.
Rudolph
Oh, no. I've coated my own fingers with collodion. I can't leave any prints.
Myra Stevens
Then what?
Rudolph
I read in the papers that David Harding is again in New York. I'm going to drop in and see him. And just happen to leave my case? Warner's will be the only prints they'll find on it.
Myra Stevens
Pretty slick, Rudolph, even for you, isn't it?
Rudolph
I just hope it's slick enough to fool The Compass Spies.
David Harding
J4 calling Mr. Harding. A checkup of bond engraving companies revealed that two separate orders have been placed by Voronais. Each order is for $3 million worth of negotiable bonds.
Harry Peters
Examination of the orders. Who proves one letter to be a clever duplicate of the other. Twice the original amount ordered. Huh? And that's the answer to his racket. Three million to be sold by his government and an equal amount for his own profit.
David Harding
The bond companies have agreed to stall.
Harry Peters
Him as you requested. Okay. Standby for further orders. All right, Ms. Ferguson, you can send Mr. Vor in now. Come in, Mr. Vor.
Mr. Vorne
Thank you.
Rudolph
I hope I'm not keeping you from your so important work is.
Harry Peters
Not at all. What can I do for you?
Rudolph
I stopped in to thank you and your Mr. Peters. For your kindness in meeting me when my ship dock the other day.
Harry Peters
Well, I'm sorry, Mr. Peters isn't in right now. He's out on a job.
Rudolph
Shame. I've hoped to see him. Mind if I smoke, Mr. Harding?
Harry Peters
Not at all. You'll find some cigarettes there.
Rudolph
Mr. Trapper. Please. I have this case with my own favorite brand.
Harry Peters
Would you excuse me? Sure. How. Thanks, Biggie.
David Harding
All done, Dave. We got into Born A's room as soon as he left and went over it with the infrared equipment. So there won't be any traces of.
Harry Peters
Get anything?
David Harding
All the fingerprints you wanted. I bring the photographs right down to be developed. One bad break, though. Horny again. Shook off the man we had trailing him. No idea where he is now.
Harry Peters
I have here.
David Harding
Would you? Boy, if he could hear this call.
Harry Peters
I don't think that would be too good. I'll see you later. Sorry, Mr. Tony.
Rudolph
It is my fault for taking up your time when you are busy chasing some. How you say, international racketeer.
Harry Peters
No, no. I'm glad you came. I have some news for you. We've located an old friend of yours here in the United States.
Rudolph
A friend.
Harry Peters
Otto Strabling in Chicago. Used to work with you in your country. Remember him?
Rudolph
Of course. But you should not have Bond.
Harry Peters
Oh, there's no bother at all, Mr. Vorone. Anything to make your visit here a memorable one. I've arranged for struggling to fly in from Chicago tonight. You land at seven. Please. Could.
David Harding
Could someone please tell me where I can get a cab? Could any, for goodness sake.
Rudolph
Well, no.
David Harding
Yes, I am.
Myra Stevens
Darling. How good to see you. But play along with me. My name is Myra Stevens. I'm a countess. It can't aspire for goodness plain you value your life. Do as I say. Darling. Just you come along with me. My car is right outside. All right. Now into this house, Mrs. Sedling.
Mr. Vorne
All right. But why do we have to be so careful?
David Harding
There is no one around.
Myra Stevens
I told you. You and Vorne are both in danger.
Mr. Vorne
You. You are taking me to my old.
Rudolph
Friend Mr. Vaughn, aren't you?
Myra Stevens
Yes. He's being hidden here until we catch the foreign agents who are after. All right, Get.
Mr. Vorne
All right.
David Harding
You don't have to poke at me with. For goodness sake.
Harry Peters
Why do you point that gun at me?
Myra Stevens
Why do people usually point guns, stupid? Now go on into the next room.
David Harding
But you said you would take me to my friend.
Myra Stevens
That's just what I'm doing. Right in here. There you are. Ottawa, old boy. Mr. Vornick. My boy. For goodness sake.
David Harding
He is all tied up in his face.
Myra Stevens
We tried to convince him he should sign some papers. Maybe now when he sees you, he'll behave.
Mr. Vorne
You. You are not the Zicato spy.
Myra Stevens
Stay where you are. I may wear a skirt, bub, but I can shoot pretty good at close range.
Harry Peters
You. You.
Mr. Vorne
You lied to me.
Myra Stevens
Not entirely. In a way I am with the counter spy. At least my boss Rudolph is. Yes, at this very minute he's having dinner with David Harding, head of the counterspy. Setting up a perfect alibi for himself.
Rudolph
But Mr. Harding, when I invited you to dinner.
Harry Peters
Well, we'll have our dinner, Mr. Bornet. But first I thought you'd like to see how we make an arrest in this country. Of course. But a call I received just before we left was from my agents. They followed the girl accomplice of a certain criminal a house here in the suburb. This house? As a matter of fact, yes. Come along, Mr. Borne. I'm sure you'll be interested.
Rudolph
After you, Mr. Honey.
Harry Peters
Oh no, Miss Boy, after you.
Rudolph
Wake up, Mr. Harding.
Myra Stevens
Harding. What kind of a frame is this? I take up auto here like a shout out.
Harry Peters
You fool.
Rudolph
That is not Poto. That's Harry Peters, one of Harding's men.
Myra Stevens
Counterfeit.
David Harding
I'll take that gun.
Myra Stevens
No you don't. That's fine.
Harry Peters
All right, Peter, you can untie Mr. Vor now. And as for you, Mr. Rudolph, you're under arrest.
Rudolph
On what charge, Mr. Harding?
Harry Peters
The kidnapping of Mr. Vor. Forging official documents and.
Rudolph
But Mr. Harding, I'm not responsible for this woman did.
Harry Peters
Are you?
Myra Stevens
Double crossing jerk. You're not passing the buff to me on this. Listen, Harding, this guy's already killed two men and before I'm done talking.
Harry Peters
All right, you'll get your chance to talk. We already have all the proof we need. You see, Rudolph, your clever trick with a cigarette case didn't work. We'd already gotten your fingerprints from your apartment. You simply gave away the fact that the real envoy was here too.
Myra Stevens
And you thought you were so slick, Master Marge.
Harry Peters
He was, but not clever enough. He fell for the story that an old friend of Vorney's was coming and led my men here just as we expected.
Rudolph
All right, Mr. Harding, let's get it over with. Let's go.
Harry Peters
Certainly, Rudolph. Oh, I did promise you a dinner, didn't I? Well, you'll get it. It'll be interesting to get the opinion of a gourmet like yourself, Rudolph, on the food served in our federal prison.
Pepsi Announcer
When your friends drop in. Be generous, but be thrifty. Too. Serve plenty of delicious Pepsi Cola. Pepsi's big 12 ounce bottle gives you not just one sparkling glass full, but two. Get a carton of six and serve 12 delicious drinks. Yes, Pepsi is America's biggest cola value. You get twice the tangy taste, twice the refreshment, twice the Pepsi. So why take less when Pepsi is best? Whenever you reach for refreshments, remember Pepsi.
Harry Peters
Cola tips and spots toothpaste glasses. That's a lot. Lots more value, lots more zest.
Pepsi Announcer
Why take less when Pepsi's best Tune in every Tuesday and Thursday, Same time, Same station to CounterSpy. Listen next Tuesday for the exciting Counterspy Case of the Society of Swindler.
Harry Peters
Time said the master criminal had to be treated just right and time meant two things, money and death. Yet in the end, it was time that trapped him. For time is not the exclusive weapon of crime, but used too by your counterspy to catch the man I call the Society Swindler.
Pepsi Announcer
Case of the society swindler on CounterSpy. Tonight's CounterSpy program, originated in New York, was directed by William M. Sweets and featured Don McLaughlin and Mandel Kramer with music by Jesse Crawford. Counter Spy is a Philips H. Lord production for Pepsi Cola. Enjoy some Pepsi Ice Cold tonight.
Narrator
That's our story for this week. You can find more from CounterSpy, this podcast and all of the relic Radio shows at the website relicradio.com our shoutcast stream is there, running 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with even more old time radio lots to listen to there, all made possible by your support. If you'd like to help out, visit donate. Relicradio.com or click on one of the links on the website. Thanks to those who have thanks for joining me this week. I'll be back tomorrow with the Horror and next Friday with our next episode of Relic Radio Thrillers.
Podcast Summary: Relic Radio Thrillers – "The Case of the Genuine Counterfeit" by Counterspy
Podcast Information:
In this gripping episode of Relic Radio Thrillers, the Counterspy series unravels a tale of deception, espionage, and high-stakes manipulation titled "The Case of the Genuine Counterfeit." Set against the backdrop of post-World War II tensions, the story delves into an international conspiracy involving forged government bonds that threaten national stability.
The narrative centers around Mr. Vorne, a diplomat from a small mid-European country, and his newly appointed secretary, Rudolph. As Vorne prepares for an important mission to America—tasked with arranging the engraving of $3 million in government bonds—a series of suspicious events suggest that all is not as it seems. Rudolph's sudden replacement of the previous secretary, who died under mysterious circumstances involving a gas explosion, hints at deeper machinations aimed at destabilizing Vorne's mission.
The story intensifies when Rudolph warns Vorne about the suspicious death of his previous secretary, suggesting that it may have been an assassination attempt:
Faced with potential threats, Vorne and Rudolph devise a daring plan to exchange identities, ensuring Vorne's safety during his voyage to the United States:
Onboard the ship, Myra Stevens, an American girl accompanying her uncle, adds a layer of complexity. Her involvement becomes pivotal as Rudolph manipulates her to aid in his counterfeit scheme:
Meanwhile, David Harding, the head of the Counterspy agency, along with his assistant Harry Peters, begin to uncover irregularities in Vorne's mission. Harding's investigation reveals that:
These findings raise red flags about Rudolph's true intentions, prompting a deeper probe into Vorne's activities and Rudolph's past.
As the ship docks in New York, Rudolph attempts to solidify his counterfeit plan by manipulating Myra and attempting to eliminate an obstacle—a sailor. However, Harding and Peters are one step ahead, having established a surveillance system to monitor Vorne's activities.
During a dinner arranged by Rudolph with Harding and Peters present incognito, the true nature of the counterfeit plot is exposed:
Rudolph is apprehended after his manipulative tactics are thwarted by the Counterspy team, revealing that his plan to create and distribute $6 million in counterfeit bonds was foiled through meticulous investigation and strategic intervention.
Mr. Vorne: Portrayed as a seemingly unassuming diplomat whose mission is critical to his country's economy. His trust in Rudolph and reluctance to seek protection highlight his naivety and the extent of Rudolph's deception.
Rudolph: A cunning antagonist whose facade as a loyal secretary masks his true intentions of defrauding the government through counterfeit bonds. His manipulation of Myra Stevens demonstrates his calculated approach to achieving his goals.
Myra Stevens: Initially appearing as an innocent accomplice, Myra's role evolves as she questions Rudolph's actions, eventually aiding in his exposure. Her transformation from a nightclub girl to a reluctant participant underscores the theme of deception.
David Harding & Harry Peters: As the protagonists, their keen observation and strategic planning are instrumental in uncovering and dismantling the counterfeit scheme. Their partnership exemplifies effective teamwork in espionage.
Rudolph to Vorne (05:24): “$3 million merely in honor. The engraving of the bonds on which the future of our nation depends.”
Harry Peters on Vorne's Behavior (15:01): “He holds the fork in his right hand eating, but when he wanted to cut he changed the fork to his left.”
Rudolph’s Manipulation (20:05): “Suppose I prove that I am. Is Vorne still safe in the next room?”
Harry Peters on Counterfeiting (21:46): “Twice the original amount ordered. Huh? And that's the answer to his racket.”
Counterstating Rudolph's Trickery (27:22): “You see, Rudolph, your clever trick with a cigarette case didn't work.”
The tension peaks during the confrontation in New York, where Rudolph's deceit is laid bare. With evidence amassed by Harding and Peters, including Rudolph's fingerprints and inconsistencies in his story, the Counterspy team successfully arrests him. The episode concludes with Rudolph facing justice, ensuring the integrity of the mission and the stability of his country's economy.
"The Case of the Genuine Counterfeit" masterfully weaves a tale of espionage, showcasing the intricate dance between deception and discovery. Through sharp character portrayals and a tightly plotted narrative, the episode underscores the relentless pursuit of truth by dedicated agents like David Harding and Harry Peters. Listeners are left enthralled by the unraveling of Rudolph's scheme and the triumph of vigilant counteragents over nefarious intentions.
This episode exemplifies the enduring appeal of old-time radio thrillers, blending suspenseful storytelling with timeless themes of trust, betrayal, and heroism. For enthusiasts of crime, mystery, and espionage, "The Case of the Genuine Counterfeit" offers a compelling listen that resonates with the golden age of radio dramas.
Stay Tuned: Join Relic Radio Thrillers next Tuesday for another exciting episode, "The Society of Swindler," continuing the legacy of classic espionage adventures.