The Case Of The Murmured Millions by Counterspy

Summary

Podcast Summary: "The Case Of The Murmured Millions" by Counterspy

Podcast Information:

• Title: Relic Radio Thrillers (Old Time Radio)
• Host/Author: RelicRadio.com
• Episode: The Case Of The Murmured Millions by Counterspy
• Release Date: March 7, 2025

---

Introduction

In this gripping episode of Relic Radio Thrillers, the listener is transported back to the golden age of radio with "The Case Of The Murmured Millions," a Counterspy narrative originally aired on August 11, 1949. This installment delves deep into the murky world of corporate espionage, extortion, and the battle against malicious rumors that can ruin lives and businesses overnight.

---

Plot Overview

The story centers around William Norman, a notorious con man and swindler, who approaches Colton Sanford of the Sanford Beauty Corporation with a sinister proposition. Norman seeks to leverage Sanford's extensive network to execute a sophisticated rumor campaign aimed at destroying a rival company, Double Circle Products Corporation. As Norman unveils his scheme, the United States Counterspy, led by Chief David Harding, works tirelessly to uncover and thwart his plans.

---

Key Events

1. The Slick Proposal (00:25 - 07:28)

   • William Norman meets with Rocky Dunn and Dorothy, conveying his plan to Colton Sanford to demolish Double Circle Products through orchestrated rumors. Norman promises a high yield, projecting a net of five to ten million dollars annually from this refined protection racket. He emphasizes the non-violent nature of his approach, stating, “We use words instead of violence” ([06:32]).

2. Double Circle's Downfall (10:03 - 14:00)

   • As Norman's plan unfolds, incidents of product failures and poisonings linked to Double Circle Products lead to mass cancellations and financial strain. Mr. Blake, president of Double Circle, becomes suspicious and contacts Counterspy, revealing his doubts about the origins of the damaging rumors. He implicates Norman Associates, Public Relations, in the malicious campaign ([13:12]).

3. Counterspy's Investigation (14:11 - 22:09)

   • Chief David Harding and his assistant, Mr. Peters, conduct a thorough background check on William Norman, uncovering his history as a confidence man with multiple convictions. They strategize to bait Norman into exposing himself by leveraging Sanford, who collaborates with Counterspy to entrap Norman ([20:41]).

4. The Ambush and Arrest (25:00 - 27:49)

   • During a strategically arranged meeting, Counterspy utilizes hidden microphones and expert lip readers to capture Norman’s admission of orchestrating the rumor campaign. Confronted with undeniable evidence, Norman is arrested for extortion and criminal slander. Rocky Dunn’s unexpected appearance further solidifies the case against Norman, culminating in his downfall ([26:35]).

---

Characters and Their Roles

• David Harding (Counterspy Chief): The relentless leader of the United States Counterspy, determined to dismantle Norman's operations. He orchestrates the investigation and employs strategic tactics to gather evidence against Norman.

• William Norman (Con Man/Antagonist): A seasoned swindler with a history of fraud, Norman attempts to exploit Sanford’s influence to ruin a competitor through rumor-mongering and extortion. His cunning and manipulative nature make him a formidable foe.

• Colton Sanford (Victim/Corporation Executive): Executive at Sanford Beauty Corporation, Sanford becomes the target of Norman’s scheme. Initially hesitant, he collaborates with Counterspy to bring Norman to justice.

• Rocky Dunn (Enforcer): Affiliated with Norman, Dunn's role as an enforcer becomes pivotal during the final confrontation, adding pressure on Norman and aiding in his eventual capture.

• Dorothy: She acts as a liaison and warning voice between Dunn and Sanford, highlighting the personal stakes involved in the corporate battle against Double Circle.

• Mr. Blake (Double Circle President): Represents the victim corporation, whose integrity and business are under threat from Norman’s engineered rumors. His collaboration with Counterspy is crucial in linking Norman to the malfeasance.

---

Notable Quotes

• William Norman: “This isn't risky. I don't like to take chances. That's why I met you out here on the beach. You can't wire the air and the sea.” ([06:39])

• David Harding: “That's the flaw in any protection racket. The crook has to reveal himself to his victim in order to extort money nobody'd pay off otherwise.” ([20:14])

• David Harding: “You can't arrest a rumor if it's criminal slander. And you can prove who started it. You can prove.” ([13:02])

• William Norman: “I'm arresting you for extortion, criminal slander and whatever other count we can dig up against you on the basis of this film.” ([26:35])

• Mr. Peters: “September 12, 1911, up to and including yesterday when he called on Colton Sanford of the Sanford Beauty Corporation.” ([19:15])

---

Insights and Themes

"The Case Of The Murmured Millions" masterfully illustrates the destructive power of misinformation and the lengths to which individuals might go to manipulate public perception for personal gain. It underscores the importance of integrity within corporations and the delicate balance between competition and ethical business practices. The episode also highlights the efficacy of intelligence and strategic planning in countering sophisticated fraud schemes.

---

Conclusion

This episode of Relic Radio Thrillers serves as a timeless reminder of the perils of unscrupulous tactics in the business world and the unwavering dedication of those who seek to uphold justice. Through the intricate dance between Norman's deceit and Counterspy's vigilance, listeners are treated to a compelling narrative that combines suspense, strategic intrigue, and the triumph of good over evil.

For fans of classic radio dramas, "The Case Of The Murmured Millions" offers an engaging and thought-provoking experience that captures the essence of Old Time Radio adventures in crime and espionage.

Transcript

[Rocky Dunn]

Foreign.

[Host]

This is relic radio Thrillers. Welcome back. Thanks for joining me. This Friday we're going to hear from counterspy this week. Series that debuted over NBC in May of 1942 and aired until December of 1957 produced over 800 episodes. Only about 67 of those are still available, like this one. From August 11, 1949, we'll hear the case of the murmured millions.

[Announcer]

Pepsi Cola. P E P S I. That's your smartest cola by Pepsi Cola presents Counterspy Washington calling David Harding. Counterspy Washington calling David Harding.

[David Harding]

Counterspy Harding. Counterspy calling Washington.

[Announcer]

United States Counterspy especially appointed to investigate.

[William Norman]

And combat the enemies of our country both at home and abroad.

[Announcer]

Tonight, the case of the murmured millions. Another counterspy report to the American people. Brought to you each Tuesday and Thursday by Pepsi Cola.

[Pepsi Jingle Singer]

Pepsi Cola hits a spot. Two full glasses. That's a lot.

[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 glassful. And what a delicious glassful. 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 is 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.

[Pepsi Jingle Singer]

Take less when catch is best?

[Announcer]

And now to counter spy.

[David Harding]

Hello?

[Rocky Dunn]

Oh, yeah, Tony. With the same guy. Boy, that little too Tran. Where are you now? Downstairs in the lobby. She on her way up.

[William Norman]

No, no.

[Rocky Dunn]

You don't have to tailor anymore. I got enough for a nice big burn. Okay, ring off. D I want I learn you.

[William Norman]

So.

[Dorothy]

Rocky, I got something I want to.

[Announcer]

Talk to you about.

[Rocky Dunn]

Me first. D I got something I want to give you.

[Dorothy]

It's about time. I've been due for.

[Rocky Dunn]

You've been due for this for a long time, Rocky. Ope makes a jerk out of Rocky. Done. Rocky, don't no timing me for a toothpick con man.

[William Norman]

Oh.

[Host]

Oh.

[Dorothy]

Stop it, Rocky. Stop it, I tell you.

[Rocky Dunn]

Don't tell me nothing. I know it all. Nobody pulls the wool over Rocky's eyes. He's good, this guy Norman that worth taking a beating for. He's that good at playing around.

[Dorothy]

Oh, no, Rocky. No, please, please.

[Rocky Dunn]

This was business.

[Dorothy]

Strictly business.

[Rocky Dunn]

You know what I think of that? Kind of.

[Dorothy]

It's for you. I did it. He wants to meet you. It isn't me.

[Colton Sanford]

That's good.

[Rocky Dunn]

That's really good. He wants to meet me so he plays footsie with my dog. Why don't he come up here?

[William Norman]

I got an address.

[David Harding]

Oh, no.

[Dorothy]

Rocky, will you listen, please?

[Rocky Dunn]

No more, okay? I got time. Speak your piece. Want some? Good. Then I'm gonna kick your teeth.

[Dorothy]

Oh, listen, he wants to see you. He's got a proposition. I was gonna set up a date when you started.

[Rocky Dunn]

Stop the fairy tale.

[Colton Sanford]

Do it.

[Rocky Dunn]

I looked him up. He's a con man, a lone wolf. What does he want from me?

[Dorothy]

He's got a deal. He needs your syndicate behind. A big one. Yeah, he wants me to bring you to him. Two o'clock this afternoon. A beach on the south shore of Long Island.

[Rocky Dunn]

A beach?

[Dorothy]

Yeah, he don't want to take no chance on anybody overhearing.

[Rocky Dunn]

Sharp cookie, huh?

[Dorothy]

All right, Rocky, you believe me, don't you?

[Rocky Dunn]

Maybe yes, maybe no. We'll keep that date. Yeah, I like that beach idea. Cause if this ain't level, Dot, I'll see that you and the boyfriend go for a long swim. One way. That's him.

[Dorothy]

Rocky, down on the beach. Come on.

[Rocky Dunn]

That's him.

[Dorothy]

Hello, Mr. Norman.

[William Norman]

Hello, Dorothy.

[Dorothy]

Rocky, this is Bill Norman.

[William Norman]

Bill, Rocky. Duck.

[David Harding]

Hiya.

[William Norman]

How do you do?

[Rocky Dunn]

Well, let's hear your story, Norman. And it better be good. I ain't in the habit of being dragged 50 miles from nowhere just to talk to a guy.

[William Norman]

All right, Mr. Dunn. Dorothy, would you mind taking a walk?

[Rocky Dunn]

Look, fella, that's part of my business. This is level. And anything you tell me, I'll tell her anyhow.

[William Norman]

That's perfectly all right with me. I just don't want her to hear what we say.

[Dorothy]

What kind of sense does that make?

[William Norman]

Simple. If anything should go wrong and we should be arrested. Always a possibility. You could testify only to what you heard, not what Rocky told you.

[Dorothy]

Do you think that I would?

[William Norman]

Not at all, Dorothy. Not at all. I just don't like to take chances.

[Rocky Dunn]

My character. I'm getting interest. Go on, Dot. Take a walk.

[William Norman]

Okay.

[Rocky Dunn]

All right, Norman, start talking.

[William Norman]

Well, first you'd like to know a little bit about me, wouldn't you?

[David Harding]

No.

[Rocky Dunn]

I've been doing a little checking. William Norman, alias Walter Nolan. Con man, swindler. Three to five years stretch in the Harrisville pen. Year at Cluten Prison and strictly a lone wolf in operation.

[William Norman]

Pretty complete.

[David Harding]

Yeah.

[William Norman]

Now, what's the pitch? Five to $10 million a year net.

[Colton Sanford]

Big pitch.

[William Norman]

You're interested.

[Rocky Dunn]

I got a catcher's mitts. Start throwing.

[William Norman]

It's a refinement of the protection racket.

[Rocky Dunn]

Protection I got out of that in the 30s it's too risky. The cops and the good citizens get mad fast.

[William Norman]

This isn't risky. I don't like to take chances. That's why I met you out here on the beach. You can't wire the air and the sea.

[Colton Sanford]

Cute.

[Rocky Dunn]

What do you want from me? I'm not forgetting you got a rep.

[David Harding]

As a lone wolf.

[William Norman]

And I'd keep it, except that now I need your organization.

[Rocky Dunn]

Why?

[William Norman]

You've got men in most of the big cities in the country, haven't you?

[Rocky Dunn]

That's right. Takes a big outfit to run a gambling operation. And they're tough enough to run any protection racket ever invented.

[William Norman]

There'll be no violence at all attached to this. I don't like force. You can make more with brains.

[Rocky Dunn]

What do the boys do then?

[William Norman]

Wreck a 20 million dollar corporation?

[Rocky Dunn]

20 million? For that you need an army.

[William Norman]

Not if you do it with words instead of violence. You're still interested?

[Rocky Dunn]

I always like to hear a guy talk in millions. What's the name of this outfit we're gonna wreck?

[William Norman]

We in already?

[Rocky Dunn]

Could be, if the setup's as sure as you are of yourself.

[David Harding]

It is.

[William Norman]

The name of the outfit is the Double Circle Products Corporation. Oh, you just sit down and be comfortable. I'll tell you how. Mr. Blake, the president of Double Circle is going to help us turn a murmur into millions.

[Mr. Blake]

All right, Mr. Norman. You've got five minutes of my time. Make it brief and to the point. I'm a busy man.

[William Norman]

All right, Mr. Blake. I'm here to sell you the services of my organization, Norman Associates, Public Relations.

[Mr. Blake]

Five years too late. I already have a public relations agent.

[William Norman]

Right, Mr. Blake, but they go after the press, radio, mediums of mass communication. I go directly to the people themselves.

[Mr. Blake]

That's not very clear.

[William Norman]

Your products go into practically every American home. Suppose the public should get the idea that Double Circle merchandise is inferior.

[Mr. Blake]

What?

[William Norman]

Possibly dangerous. And start talking about it. You could lose a lot of business.

[Mr. Blake]

Nonsense. There's not a thing wrong with Double Circle Products and there never will be. You've got nothing to sell, Mr. Norton. And you've wasted enough of my time already. I'm satisfied with my present public relations.

[William Norman]

I was afraid you'd say that, Mr. Blake. I'm sorry. Because I offer my services only once, I assure you.

[Mr. Blake]

That's been enough, Mr. Marvel.

[William Norman]

I'd like you to remember that, Mr. Blake. Just in case anything should happen to your concern. Hello, Dorothy. No, no. No last names, please. Will you tell our mutual friend to put our plan into operation? Meow. Just as I outlined. Subways, railroad stations, ferries, wherever people gather. That's right. I'll keep in touch with you. Goodbye.

[Rocky Dunn]

These subways are getting more crowded every day. Your wife any better, Tony?

[Colton Sanford]

Worse, Mike. Hands are all burnt and blistered. Doctor says it was that stuff she was using. Made by the Double Circle Company.

[Rocky Dunn]

Oh, bad, huh?

[Colton Sanford]

Well, you saw what it did to her hand. We'll never buy Double Circle again.

[Dorothy]

Mabel, did you hear that? Double Circle. I bought some of that junk myself.

[Colton Sanford]

Hello, Jeff. Where's the wife? Thought she was going to the theater with it.

[Rocky Dunn]

Nah, she can't. She got some kind of metal poisoning using that. That Double Circle product. I'm gonna sue that company.

[Dorothy]

Yeah, Arsenic and. The stuff was made by Double Circle. I heard it from the man whose wife was poisoned.

[Colton Sanford]

Don't try to tell me Double Circle. I'm no dope.

[Dorothy]

Jane, take my advice. Don't go near that Double Circle stuff. It's poison.

[Mr. Blake]

Double Circle?

[Rocky Dunn]

Sure, it's good if you want to drop dead quick.

[Dorothy]

I wouldn't buy Double Circle, man, if they gave me the company.

[Colton Sanford]

You hear about Double Circle Products? They ought to be sued for selling it.

[Dorothy]

It's poison.

[Colton Sanford]

If you want to drop dead quick.

[Dorothy]

I won't buy Double Circle.

[Colton Sanford]

They ought to be sued.

[Dorothy]

It's poison, that's all. Poison.

[Mr. Blake]

Blake speaking. What is it? More cancellations. From where now? The West Coast. Look, we've simply got to put more pressure on our salesmen. I know. I know all about the rumors. We're spending every cent we can to combat them. But we can't keep it up in the face of these cancellations. Two more weeks and we'll be forced to sell out.

[William Norman]

From Federal Securities Commission to David Harding, Chief, United States counterspies request preliminary investigation into failure of Double Circle Products Corporation. Stockholders loss enormous evidence of malfeasance or fraud should be forwarded to us for prosecution. Four months, Mr. Harding, that's all.

[Mr. Blake]

Four months in a 20 million dollar business. Practically wiped out. We just have to sell with cancellations outnumbering orders by four to one.

[David Harding]

Mr. Blake, about those rumors about your product.

[Mr. Blake]

They're not true. They never were true and they're not true today.

[Mr. Peters]

We know that, Mr. Blake. They couldn't be. The federal trade laws protect consumers against the sale of anything harmful.

[Mr. Blake]

Well, I wish more people were aware of that, Mr. Peters.

[David Harding]

Nevertheless, Mr. Blake, rumors have to spring from someplace. Now, have you any idea at all how they started?

[Mr. Blake]

I've been thinking about that.

[Mr. Peters]

Your competitors.

[Mr. Blake]

Mr. Peters, free enterprise is a Competitive system. But there are rules and ethics. Every one of my competitors offered to help me weather this, but it was no use.

[David Harding]

Well, then, what were you thinking, Mr. Blake?

[Mr. Blake]

What's the use?

[David Harding]

You can't arrest a rumor if it's criminal slander. And you can prove who started it. You can prove.

[Mr. Blake]

I can't prove anything.

[David Harding]

But you suspect something.

[Mr. Blake]

I do.

[David Harding]

Well, then, we'd like to know those suspicions.

[Mr. Blake]

All right, Mr. Harding. I'll give you my suspicions in one name. William Norman.

[David Harding]

Norman?

[Mr. Blake]

Yes. He runs an outfit called Norman Associates, Public relations. He predicted this might happen when he tried to sell me his services.

[David Harding]

Oh, a prophet, huh?

[Mr. Blake]

Very pointed.

[Colton Sanford]

Prophet.

[Mr. Peters]

Because he underscored his prediction when the rumors started. Did you try to get in touch with him?

[Mr. Blake]

Well. Well, not at first, Mr. Peters, but later on I did. In fact, I offered to retain his services to see if that would stop the rumors.

[David Harding]

But he wasn't for hire then, was he?

[Mr. Blake]

How did you know, Mr. Hardy?

[David Harding]

Well, he'd have been stupid if he had been. It's easy enough to start gossip, but almost impossible to stop it.

[Mr. Peters]

Suppose this Norman did start those rumors, Chief? It'd be just as impossible to prove it, won't it?

[David Harding]

Perhaps, perhaps not. But before we jump to any conclusions, I want to know more about William Norman.

[Mr. Blake]

Well, my secretary has his address and phone number, Mr. Harding.

[David Harding]

I get it, Peter. And put Norman's name through the works. I want to know everything about him from the day he was born until the day you hand me your report.

[Announcer]

Back to counterspy in a moment.

[Pepsi Jingle Singer]

But first, heps of cola hit the spot. Two full glasses. That's a lot.

[Announcer]

Lots more value, lots more death.

[Pepsi Jingle Singer]

Why take less when Pepsi's dead?

[Announcer]

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 taste 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?

[Pepsi Jingle Singer]

Pepsi Cola's so delicious and each bottle makes two drinks. It is certainly the cola for the purchaser who thinks everybody's drinking Pepsi. Just compare it with the rest. So much more and so much finer. Why take less?

[Announcer]

One Pepsi best 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 refreshments. Remember.

[Pepsi Jingle Singer]

Why take less when Pepsi's dead?

[Announcer]

Now back to counterspy Bill Norman, the immaculate racketeer, has just put his proposition to another important businessman.

[Colton Sanford]

Mr. Norman, it's simply no use. This company is satisfied with its present public relations setup.

[William Norman]

Funny. That's the same thing Mr. Blake said to me late. The Double Circle Corporation. You read about their failure and forced sale, I imagine.

[Colton Sanford]

Yes, I did.

[William Norman]

He might have forestalled all those nasty rumors. If he'd employed the services of an alert public relations agency like mine.

[Colton Sanford]

I'm not sure I like what you're saying.

[Mr. Blake]

Why?

[William Norman]

I'm not saying anything. I'm just trying to sell you.

[Colton Sanford]

Make your sales point a little clearer.

[William Norman]

I don't like talking business in offices. Suppose we go for a drive. I have my car downstairs.

[Colton Sanford]

Suppose I don't?

[William Norman]

Well, it's a free country. Do as you choose. Blake did?

[Colton Sanford]

Yes.

[William Norman]

I hope you don't have the same difficulties.

[Colton Sanford]

Wait a minute. I think I will go for that trying.

[William Norman]

Wise decision.

[Colton Sanford]

I want to see all your cards.

[William Norman]

I'd be glad to show them to you as long as there are no kibitzers around. Let's go, Mr. Sanford.

[Colton Sanford]

All right, Mr. Norman. Let's have your proposition.

[William Norman]

Not here, Mr. Sanford. I even suspect my own car. Someone may have wired it. We just go for a little walk in this field by the road and then talk.

[Colton Sanford]

Whatever you say. What? What are you doing?

[William Norman]

Just making sure you're not concealing anything. What do you mean? I once made a record, unwittingly. Concealed microphone. They played it in court, liked my voice so much, they gave me a year's engagement in a penitentiary. I don't want a return date.

[Colton Sanford]

Now you're becoming candid.

[William Norman]

I'll do even better. I'll become blunt. The rumors that caused the failure of the Double Circle Corporation. I started them and spread them. That's quite an admission, isn't it?

[Colton Sanford]

Suppose I repeated it to the authorities.

[William Norman]

We have no witnesses. I'd simply deny it and then sue you for slander and defamation of character. On top of which rumors about your products would start. And with what your company sells. Think of the pleasant tales I could invent.

[Colton Sanford]

Just a dressed up version of the protection record, huh?

[William Norman]

Well put, Mr. Sanford. Only you protect yourself against words instead of violence.

[Colton Sanford]

And how much would this cost the corporation?

[William Norman]

1% of your gross business.

[Mr. Blake]

1%?

[William Norman]

Are you crazy?

[Colton Sanford]

We do nearly $50 million a year.

[William Norman]

I know. That's what makes 1% so reasonable for my kind of public relations.

[Colton Sanford]

Half a million dollars? I can't say yes or no just like that.

[William Norman]

You can't say no. But I'll give you time to figure out a way to say yes. Call me the first of the week, we go for another drive and complete our business.

[Mr. Peters]

There it is, Mr. Harding. The report on William Norman.

[David Harding]

Complete from the day of his birth.

[Mr. Peters]

September 12, 1911, up to and including yesterday when he called on Colton Sanford of the Sanford Beauty Corporation.

[David Harding]

Sanford? Any of our agents seen Sanford yet?

[Mr. Peters]

No, not yet.

[David Harding]

Well, then we will. I want to find out what Norman said to him. Well, now, what about Norman's background?

[Mr. Peters]

Well, he served time in two state penitentiaries. It would have been more, except he's had good lawyers. He's been a confidence man from the age of 22.

[David Harding]

And suddenly he blossoms out into a public relations expert. Blake had a good foundation for his suspicions.

[Mr. Peters]

Yes, Dave, but he was right about proof. There's not a thing to connect Norman with the rumors that ruined Double Circle. Unless we tried to trace them back.

[David Harding]

Impossible. We'd be licked before we start. Besides, even if through some miracle we trace them to Norman, it wouldn't prove a thing. He just say he heard them somewhere else. Now, our best bet is to start at the source. Interview Sanford, find out what Norman told him.

[Mr. Peters]

Okay, Chief. But Norman would hardly admit to Sanford that he was the cause of Blake's bankruptcy.

[David Harding]

All wrong, Peters. If what we suspect is true, Norman had to admit it.

[Mr. Peters]

What do you mean?

[David Harding]

Well, that's the flaw in any protection racket. The crook has to reveal himself to his victim in order to extort money nobody'd pay off otherwise. Now, our job is to get Norman to reveal himself in the presence of a witness or a microphone well hidden. And Mr. Sanford is going to help us do just that.

[Colton Sanford]

That's right, Mr. Harding. You and Mr. Peters have reconstructed the whole picture.

[David Harding]

Norman definitely admitted he did the Blake job?

[Colton Sanford]

Admitted?

[William Norman]

He boasted about it.

[Colton Sanford]

But if you've got any idea about my testifying in court, forget it. It'd be my word against his. And you couldn't convict him without supporting evidence.

[David Harding]

Well, if we got that supporting evidence, you'd testify, wouldn't you, Mr. Sanford?

[Colton Sanford]

With pleasure. But how are you going to get it? I've told you, Norman won't talk with a third party around. I told you about his searching me.

[Mr. Peters]

Norman sounds even smarter than his record indicates.

[David Harding]

Perhaps too smart Peters. Mr. Sandvig, you say Norman didn't start talking until you were well away from his car?

[Colton Sanford]

That's right. He wasn't taking any chances on eavesdroppers.

[David Harding]

When you meet him again, it's supposed to be the same setup.

[Colton Sanford]

Yes.

[David Harding]

Same place?

[Colton Sanford]

Well, I don't know. The last time we drove around, he just seemed to stop at the first convenient country field.

[Mr. Peters]

That gives us no chance at all to stake out microphones and recorders.

[David Harding]

Maybe we can do it another way.

[Colton Sanford]

Well, how, Mr. Harding? You want proof that will stand up in court? The only way you'll get it is from Norman's own lip.

[David Harding]

Right, Mr. Sanford. That's just where I intend to get it. When are you supposed to meet him next?

[Colton Sanford]

Two or three days. I call him to set the time.

[David Harding]

Okay. Make sure it's daylight. And as for the date. Peter, call the Meteorological Bureau in Washington. Tell them to give you as positive a forecast as they can on the weather for the next three days. Mr. Sanford, if you meet Norman on the nicest day of the three, what.

[Colton Sanford]

Are you going to do?

[David Harding]

Just what you suggested. Convict Norman from his own lips.

[Colton Sanford]

You certainly picked peculiar places to meet, Mr. Norman.

[William Norman]

What's wrong with the beach? Pleasant breeze, nice surroundings. You think of a better place to do business?

[Colton Sanford]

You've got a point.

[William Norman]

If we do business doing.

[Colton Sanford]

Look, how do I know you're not just cashing in on Blake's bad luck? Maybe you had nothing to do with the rumors that ruined him after all. A rumor campaign like that would take a lot of men and money. A big organization.

[William Norman]

You're right, Mr. Xanthel. And I've got an organization behind me. One of the biggest syndicates in the country. The syndicate of Rocky Dunn.

[Colton Sanford]

Rocky Dunn?

[William Norman]

I see you read the papers. Well, I give the word, and in two hours, his men will be spreading rumors across the country about every product you make. Now, you pay off, or do I give the word?

[Colton Sanford]

I'd still like more proof.

[William Norman]

Okay.

[Colton Sanford]

No, wait a minute. Don't go.

[William Norman]

I don't like to waste my time.

[Colton Sanford]

I know how rumors can spread. Every now and then, from nowhere comes the rumor that some famous person is dead. So let's pick a name. Say, Bert Clancy, the baseball player. He's in good health. If I hear he's dead from some public source, then we can do business.

[William Norman]

That's not bad, Mrs. Hanford. In fact, it's good enough for me to file for future use.

[Colton Sanford]

Then it's a deal?

[William Norman]

Yeah. When you hear Clancy's dead, call me. I'll come around to collect my first quarterly retainer.

[Colton Sanford]

Mr. Norman? Yes? This is Colton Sanford. I just heard a rumor that Bert Clancy died.

[William Norman]

So did I. Funny how those things start, isn't it?

[Announcer]

Isn't it?

[Colton Sanford]

Incidentally, we've decided to retain your firm for public relations.

[William Norman]

I'm glad to hear that.

[Colton Sanford]

If you'll drop around our conference room in about an hour, our vice president in charge of personnel will outline the company policies and of course give you your first quarterly retainer.

[William Norman]

Splendid. I'll be very interested in learning the company policy.

[Colton Sanford]

One hour, then.

[William Norman]

Goodbye.

[David Harding]

Right in here, Mr. Norman. I'm sorry, Mr. Sanford was called away.

[William Norman]

He left a note about the retainer.

[David Harding]

Oh, naturally. We'll pick it up in accounting after you've seen the orientation film we like to show all new executives.

[William Norman]

Well, let's get to it then.

[Colton Sanford]

Of course.

[David Harding]

Oh, this is Mr. Thurman. He'll run the projector and interpret.

[Colton Sanford]

Hello.

[William Norman]

How do you do? Or shall we start?

[David Harding]

Well, I'm expecting to. Oh, that must be the. Excuse me. Come in.

[William Norman]

After you, Rocky.

[Rocky Dunn]

Listen, I don't want it.

[William Norman]

Gentlemen. What, Mr. Dunn?

[David Harding]

You know each other?

[William Norman]

Why, yes. Yes. But I wasn't aware that Mr. Dunn was connected with your company.

[David Harding]

I thought he was connected with your firm.

[Rocky Dunn]

Hey, what is this double cuz? Don't you know who this guy is, Norman?

[William Norman]

I don't think I got the name.

[David Harding]

I didn't give it. But it's Harding. David Harding.

[Rocky Dunn]

The counter spice, Norman. Some kind of a pinch.

[William Norman]

Keep quiet, Mr. Dunn. I'm sure Mr. Harding will explain the meaning of this himself.

[David Harding]

With pleasure. But first I'd like you to look at some moving pictures, Mr. Norman. Peters, will you turn off the lights and stay with Rocky? Simon, try the projector.

[William Norman]

Yes, hook.

[David Harding]

Recognize yourself, Mr. Norman?

[William Norman]

Yes. Let's say I photograph better than Mr. Sanders.

[Rocky Dunn]

Hey, look, I don't.

[William Norman]

I thought silent pictures were passing.

[David Harding]

Not always. Notice this next shot, the way the camera zooms in for a close up telephoto lens.

[William Norman]

This is all very interesting. Is there any point?

[David Harding]

Definitely. Mr. Norman, I'm arresting you for extortion, criminal slander and whatever other count we can dig up against you on the.

[William Norman]

Basis of this film.

[David Harding]

Yes.

[William Norman]

It'S silent. Mr. Harding, I was discussing legitimate business with Mr. Sanford when you took them. And if he says different, he's a liar.

[David Harding]

The pictures say different. You'll notice how Mr. Sanford kept moving around to keep your face toward one of our cameras that had a purpose.

[William Norman]

I don't bluff easy, Mr. Hart.

[David Harding]

You don't have to? I told you Mr. Thurman was the interpreter. What's Norman saying on the screen now? Thurman?

[Mr. Blake]

I've got an organization behind me.

[William Norman]

One of the biggest syndicates in the country.

[Mr. Blake]

The syndicate of Rocky Dun.

[Rocky Dunn]

What?

[Mr. Peters]

That's how we picked Rocky up.

[Rocky Dunn]

Smart guy, huh, Norman? You blabbering a little, non?

[Mr. Blake]

Cut it, Rocky. I'll show you you. Don't you see? It's a crusty color rap.

[David Harding]

Rocky always had a reputation for a quick trigger temper.

[William Norman]

Now look here, Mr. Hardy.

[David Harding]

Why don't you give it up? Norman, Mr. Thurman is a lip reader.

[Mr. Blake]

Lip reader?

[David Harding]

Yes. And he'll appear in court together with a dozen other expert lip readers to testify to every word you said.

[Mr. Peters]

On top of which, we've got Rocky. And as a pickup, order out for his girlfriend, Dot, to round out our kids.

[David Harding]

That's right, Norman. Come on, Peters, let's get him to headquarters. Looks like that's the only way we'll convince him this arrest is not a rumor, but a fact.

[Announcer]

When your friends drop in, be generous, but be thrifty too. There are plenty of delicious Pepsi Cola. Pepsi's big 12 ounce bottle gives you not just one sparkling glassful, but two. Get a carton of six and serve 12 delicious drinks. Yes, Pepsi is America's biggest total value. You get twice the tangy taste, twice the refreshment, twice the Pepsi. So why take less when Pepsi's best? Whenever you reach for refreshment, remember Pepsi Cola.

[Pepsi Jingle Singer]

Hips and bops. Toothful glasses Best a lot. Lots more value, lots more zest. Why take less when Pepsi's best.

[Announcer]

Tune in every Tuesday and Thursday, Same time, same station to Counterspy. Listen next Tuesday for the exciting Counterspy Case of the Statue of Death.

[David Harding]

The silky coated carrier that outsmarted an electric eye. The gift of appreciation that caused the death of an innocent woman. And the clicking guardian that halted two international agents who carried molecules of murder. Be sure to be tuned in next.

[Announcer]

Tuesday to the Case of the Statue of Death 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 Rosa Rio. CounterSpy is a Phillips H. Lord production for Pepsi Cola. Enjoy some Pepsi. Ice cold tonight.

[Host]

That's our thriller for this week. There's more from counterspy. Relic radio thrillers and all of the Relic radio shows, relicradio.com or shoutcast stream is there as well, streaming even more old time radio 24 hours a day, seven days a week. And if you like what you find there. You can donate and help support this and all of that. Visit donate relicradio.com or click on one of the buttons on the site. Your support makes it all possible. Thanks as always to those who have helped out. Thanks for joining me this week, be back back again tomorrow with the Horror and next Friday with our next episode of Relic Radio Thrillers.