
In 1859, legendary private detective Allan Pinkerton tries to solve the year-old case of a bank robbery and the murder of a guard. Original Air Date: November 18, 1946 Originating in Hollywood Starring: Lee Bowman as Allan Pinkerton; William...
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Narrator
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Adam Graham
Week on the Old Time Radio Snack Wagon.
Mr. Finley
Well, boy?
Collins
Yes, Mr. Finley.
Mr. Finley
Where are you, boy? What about my house?
Collins
Well, I'll tell you, Mr. Finley.
Sam Arthur
Where's your word?
Mr. Finley
You said you'd be over with a down payment. What are you made of, boy?
Collins
Rock, maple or pint? Something has come up, Mr. Finley.
Mr. Finley
I got 15 people after this house.
Adam Graham
Listen to the Old Time radio snack wagon, snackwagon.net or wherever you get your podcasts.
Mr. Finley
SA.
Adam Graham
Welcome to the Great Detectives of Old Time Radio from Boise, Idaho. This is your host, Adam Graham. In a moment, we'll bring you our 4550th episode special. I do want to encourage you if you are enjoying the podcast, to follow us using your favorite podcast software. Well, we're going to play an episode of a series that was an anthology program that generally featured historical dramas, the Cavalcade of America. I love this series and I love finding excuses to feature episodes of it. We played quite a few episodes over on the Amazing World of Radio, but we've only played one episode on the Great Detectives Podcast, and that was for our 1100th episode special. So I guess we're due for another episode of the Cavalcade of America at this point. The original air Date on This one is November 18, 1946, and here now is the Pinkerton Man.
Sam Arthur
Tonight, the Dupont Company brings you the Pinkerton man, starring Lee Bowman on the Cavalcade of America. But first, here is Gain Whitman.
Gain Whitman
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Sam Arthur
The Cavalcade of America. America. America means skyscrapers and hayloft, the crack of a pioneer's flintlock and the sound of the riveter's machine, the outline of a church steeple against the midnight sky. America is your story. America is you and everyone you know. Tonight we present Lee Bowman in the Pinkerton man on the Dupont Cavalcade of America. It is the year 1859. In one of the coaches of a train bound for Columbia, Tennessee, a man sits looking calmly at the countryside. He's dressed quietly and you wouldn't look twice at him because. Well, because he looks like a hundred to thousand other men. You've seen his name, Allen Pinkerton, America's greatest detective. As he sits, another man carrying what appears to be a sample case comes into the coach, looks around for a moment and then.
Mr. Finley
Excuse me, is this seat taken?
Collins
What? Oh, no, no, no. Help yourself.
Mr. Finley
Thanks. I hope you don't mind. No seats on the shady side of the coach.
Collins
Oh, it's all right. Don't like to sit in the sun myself.
Mr. Finley
Thanks.
Collins
I'm sorry.
Mr. Quillen
I always have trouble with my sample case.
Mr. Finley
I see.
Collins
What is it this time, Collins?
Mr. Finley
Ties. Sucks. Handkerchiefs and what's it all about, Chief?
Collins
Where'd you get on last stop?
Mr. Finley
Took a local and caught this train from there.
Collins
Good. Collins, I'm going through with a case.
Mr. Finley
Yeah, that's with a figure, Chief. All right. What's my job?
Collins
I don't know yet, but I'll have some use for you.
Mr. Finley
Yeah, but Mr. Pinkett. And you?
Collins
Quillen.
Mr. Finley
J.B. quillen, huh?
Collins
Well, that's my name. Got it?
Mr. Finley
Oh, yeah. All right.
Collins
Businessman. Retired.
Mr. Finley
Health reasons Good enough, Mr. William, you.
Collins
Stay at the hotel in Colombia.
Mr. Finley
And you?
Collins
A boarding house, I think.
Mr. Finley
For how long?
Collins
Well, I don't know. Depends on how tough this will be.
Mr. Finley
Plenty tough, Chief. Cases a year old. Trails as cold as a dog's nose.
Collins
Yeah, I know. I'll dig around until I find a lead.
Mr. Finley
What kind of a lead? In a case that's grown a beard.
Collins
Oh, that's my job, Collins. Now, when we get to Columbia, you get off first. Go directly to the hotel, sit tight, and I'll contact you. And that's the story, Colin.
Mr. Finley
Don't sound good to me, Chief.
Collins
Not a lead. Not a single lead.
Mr. Finley
Well, a bank robbery and murder. That happened over a year ago. What can you expect?
Collins
I don't know. Something. Anything. There must be something.
Mr. Finley
Suspects?
Collins
Four. The president of the bank gave me the names. McCollins. I've eliminated three of those people. Why, there's nothing to tie them in. In the first place. All the local police had to go on was suspicion.
Mr. Finley
That's not much. But how about the fourth suspect?
Collins
A man named Samuel Arthur.
Mr. Finley
Anything on him?
Collins
No, nothing. Nothing at all.
Mr. Finley
But look, if Arthur's guilty of you think he's the one, you gotta have something. Oh, what about the money from the robbery?
Collins
Not a penny of it shown up. That's why I believe the job was pulled by someone in this town. Someone who was afraid to leave. Someone who killed the watchman Walters, and then got panicky. Panicky?
Mr. Finley
A murderer who's played doggo for a year isn't exactly panicking. He's smart. Waiting for the time he can leave.
Collins
Collins, I'm changing boarding houses and cooking.
Mr. Finley
Bad at the one you're in now.
Collins
No, the hunting's bad. Samuel Arthur stays at Mrs. Holly's boarding house. Here. Here's the address.
Mr. Finley
All right, what's next?
Collins
I'm going to find one lead, one clue that'll give me a toe hold. I'll see you later.
Mr. Quillen
Your last move gives me a triple jump and king me.
Collins
Well, Mr. Evans, you'll win again.
Mr. Finley
Yes, sir.
Mr. Quillen
I'm afraid I'm still the checker champion of Miss Holly's Boarding House.
Collins
No question about that. I resign.
Mr. Quillen
Care for another one, Mr. Quillen? It only 8:00.
Collins
No, no, no, thank you, sir. Tomorrow night perhaps. Fine, fine.
Mr. Quillen
Well, think I'll turn in then.
Miss Oglethorpe
Oh, there you are. Have you finished your game, gentlemen?
Mr. Finley
Yep.
Collins
Yep, and I'm turning in.
Mr. Quillen
You keep Mr. Quillin company, Edna. Make him feel right at home here.
Miss Oglethorpe
Well, how long are you planning to stay, Mr. Quillen?
Collins
Oh, that. That all depends.
Miss Oglethorpe
On what, Mr. Quillen?
Collins
Well, on. On my health.
Mr. Finley
Oh.
Miss Oglethorpe
What is your ailment?
Collins
My ailment? Well, it. It started a little over a year ago and I.
Miss Oglethorpe
Yes.
Collins
Wasn't that Mr. Arthur who went past the door then?
Miss Oglethorpe
Well, I didn't see, but I guess it was.
Collins
Oh, well, excuse me. I'm rather tired myself. I think I'll turn in too.
Miss Oglethorpe
Oh, well, maybe we can have a little talk tomorrow night.
Collins
Well, that will be delightful, Miss Oglethorpe. Good night.
Miss Oglethorpe
Good night, Mr. Krillin. And sleep tight, huh?
Collins
Oh, thank you. Thank you. Hello. Oh, hello. Sorry I startled you, Mr. Arthur.
Mr. Quillen
Oh, not at all, Mr. Quillen.
Collins
Beautiful evening outside.
Mr. Finley
Yes.
Collins
Yes, it is. I. I was just thinking of going for a walk. Care to come along?
Mr. Quillen
Well, I'm a little tired and I.
Collins
Perhaps just around the block.
Mr. Quillen
No, No, I don't think so. Maybe tomorrow Evening.
Mr. Finley
All right?
Collins
Glad to. Glad to. Yes?
Mr. Quillen
Oh, nothing. Good night, Mr. Quillen.
Collins
Good night, Mr. Arthur.
Mr. Quillen
Oh, Mr. Quillen.
Collins
Yes?
Mr. Quillen
Are you planning on going into business down here?
Collins
Business? No, no, I'm retired.
Mr. Finley
Oh.
Mr. Quillen
Well, then you'll be with us for quite a while.
Collins
Maybe. I don't like to stay in one place very long, Mr. Arthur. Like a change of scenery once in a while. I see.
Mr. Quillen
Well, I'll see you tomorrow.
Collins
Good night. Good night, Mr. Arthur.
Miss Oglethorpe
Why, Mr. Quillen, I. I thought you'd gone upstairs.
Collins
Yes. Well, I met Mr. Arthur. Stopped for a little chat with him. He's very nice, isn't he?
Miss Oglethorpe
Oh, yes, very nice. We're all so fond of him.
Collins
Has. Has he been living here long?
Miss Oglethorpe
No, I took about five months.
Collins
Oh. What does Mr. Evans do for a living?
Miss Oglethorpe
Nothing. Nothing at all. I think he came into a little money some time ago, but there. I mustn't gossip, must I?
Collins
Well, no harm in that.
Miss Oglethorpe
No. Well, Mr. Arthur doesn't work either.
Collins
Oh, retired?
Miss Oglethorpe
That is hard to say, Mr. Quillen. I suppose he had some money saved up and. Oh, there I go again.
Collins
It's all right. Well, good night. I'll see you tomorrow. Of course, we must have a longer talk sometime.
Mr. Finley
Yes, sir. What can I do for you?
Collins
Do you have cigars?
Mr. Finley
Yes, sir. Any special kind you want?
Collins
Well, let's see. Two of these, please. Yes. Well, nice story you've got here.
Mr. Finley
Thank you.
Collins
Yeah, I must keep you pretty busy running it.
Mr. Finley
Well, kind of could use some help.
Collins
I'll bet you could. Don't. Don't you have a clerk?
Mr. Finley
Would not now.
Collins
I had one, but I had to let him go. He got to talk on sassy to.
Mr. Finley
The trade, losing his temper.
Collins
Oh, well, no wonder you let him go. Yep. I couldn't afford to have him given trouble like that. Funny thing to. All of a sudden, he up and.
Mr. Finley
Began acting like he was crazy.
Collins
Well, now, that's funny. I wonder what makes people do that. You know, I had a cousin like that, nice as could be. Then one day, just like that, began acting funny.
Mr. Finley
Same as same author. Too bad. I like same.
Collins
Everybody did. And that's the way it goes. Well, I'll see you again.
Mr. Quillen
Drop in anytime.
Collins
Glad to have you. Thanks.
Mr. Finley
Oh, excuse me.
Collins
Oh, hello there.
Mr. Finley
Oh, how are you?
Collins
Fine. You got a match? Sure thing.
Mr. Finley
Here you are.
Collins
Be at your hotel in ten minutes.
Mr. Finley
All right. I've learned a couple of things that might interest you.
Collins
And he was fired from his job because he got touchy and irritable.
Mr. Finley
I see. Well, I Learned he's been keeping to himself. Won't have a thing to do with anybody. Everybody seemed to like him before, though.
Collins
Collins, Suppose Sam Arthur has something on his mind, on his conscience or suppose.
Mr. Finley
He has, what can we do about it?
Collins
Find out what it is.
Mr. Finley
How? If he's guilty, which we don't know, he's kept it to himself for a year now.
Collins
But that sudden break from his old life. Collins, I'm convinced his conscience is working on him.
Mr. Finley
If it didn't make him break in a year, it won't break him now.
Collins
Yeah, I know that. We've got to work on him.
Mr. Finley
Yeah, but you can't do that without getting him suspicious. Start asking a guy like that some questions and he'd shut up like a clam. You know that, Chief. We've had him before.
Collins
Conscience is a funny thing, Collins.
Mr. Finley
So is the instinct for self preservation. Just let Sam Arthur get the slightest hint you're after him and you won't be able to touch him with a ten foot pole.
Collins
Look, I've got a job for you. You'll have to go about it quietly, too.
Mr. Finley
All right, what is it?
Collins
Find out all you can.
Mr. Finley
But I did. There's nothing about Sam Arthur you don't know already.
Collins
I'm not talking about him. I want you to find out all you can about Ben Walters.
Mr. Finley
Walters? But he's the murdered bank watchman.
Collins
I know it. I've known that for a long time, Collins.
Mr. Finley
Oh, yeah. I'm sorry, all right. But what good's it gonna do?
Collins
You ever hear of psychology?
Mr. Finley
Psychology? Never heard of it.
Collins
You will. We'll use that and a little American ingenuity. Great combination, Collins. Now, go to. You are sure of all these facts?
Mr. Finley
Positive, Chief.
Collins
Oh, what's. What's this about the perfume?
Mr. Finley
Well, not exactly perfume. There was after shaving scent he used. Crazy about the stuff. Used it all the time. And he. He talked like this.
Mr. Quillen
Mr. Quillen, this is the way I used to talk.
Collins
Yeah, that's the way. You should have been an actor, Collins.
Mr. Finley
I could have been a good one.
Collins
You're going to be, huh? I've got an idea. Now, maybe it'll work. It's never been tried before.
Mr. Finley
I don't get you, Chief.
Collins
You will, Collins. Get a bottle of the scent you were talking about. Can you do it?
Mr. Finley
Sure, but what's the idea?
Collins
Psychology. Now, here's what I want you to do. I'll see that Arthur doesn't go near his room until after you finish the job I want you to do. Oh, Mr. Archer. Huh? Oh, hello, Quillen. You want some company on your walk?
Mr. Quillen
Well, I wasn't going very far. Just out for breath of the air.
Collins
Well, so was I. Confidentially, Ms. Oglethorpe was waiting for me.
Mr. Quillen
I see. She likes to talk.
Collins
That she does.
Mr. Quillen
She doesn't care what she talks about either.
Collins
No, just as long as she talks. You sleep well last night?
Mr. Quillen
Sleep well?
Collins
Of course.
Mr. Quillen
Why did you ask that?
Collins
Oh, it was so hot. I was restless all night. I heard you and I thought you were restless, too. Almost dropped over to see you.
Mr. Quillen
No, I. I wasn't restless.
Collins
No? Well, I guess I heard something else.
Mr. Quillen
Heard something? What?
Collins
Oh, nothing, nothing. My imagination, I guess. But since you're just next door to me, I thought it was you.
Mr. Quillen
Well, what are you talking about?
Mr. Finley
Nothing.
Collins
Nothing at all. You see, I. I don't sleep very well. Probably one of those half awake, half asleep dreams. Oh, What?
Mr. Quillen
What was it you heard?
Collins
Oh, some sort of mumbling. Like a person talking in his sleep. It wasn't I. No, no, probably not.
Mr. Quillen
No, I. I've never talked in my sleep.
Collins
Well, I didn't say you did. I was just mentioning it. Forget it. It was more than likely it was me.
Mr. Quillen
Well, I've. I've got to leave you here.
Collins
Oh, that's too bad.
Mr. Quillen
Yes. I've got to get something at the store.
Collins
Well, I'll walk with you.
Mr. Quillen
Oh, please. I'm going to stop and see a friend.
Collins
Oh, well, then I won't trail along then. Good night.
Mr. Quillen
Good night, Quillen. I'll see you tomorrow.
Mr. Finley
It was pretty smart of you, chief.
Collins
Trailers, huh, Collins?
Mr. Finley
Sure. Now what?
Collins
How'd you do back in his room?
Mr. Finley
Oh, fine. No trouble getting in at all. And locked in the connecting door between his room and yours was a cinch.
Collins
All right, let's get back before he does. I'll go first. I'll let you in when the coast is clear.
Sam Arthur
You are listening to Lee Bowman in the Pinkerton man on the Cavalcade of America sponsored by the dupont Company, maker of better things for better living through chemistry. As the second part of our story opens, Alan Pinkerton is trying to break a year old murder and robbery case in Columbia, Tennessee, certain that a man named Sam Arthur Pinkerton is working on him. And Pinkerton's plan seems to be succeeding. For he and Collins listen to an argument going on outside his room.
Miss Oglethorpe
Really, Ms. Arthur's absolutely ridiculous.
Mr. Quillen
I know what I'm talking about, Mrs. Holly.
Miss Oglethorpe
And don't shout at me. I'm not deaf. And I don't like your insinuations that someone in this house was in your room.
Mr. Quillen
Well, someone was, I tell you. Someone was in my room.
Miss Oglethorpe
Dora was in to clean.
Mr. Quillen
Dora doesn't have to go into my dresser.
Miss Oglethorpe
Now, you listen to me. Dora's been with me for 15 years. She's a good girl.
Mr. Quillen
I tell you, somebody was in my room.
Miss Oglethorpe
I told you it was only Dora. If you don't like things the way they are around here, Ms. Arthur, you can leave now. Tonight.
Collins
This minute.
Mr. Quillen
I. Oh, never mind.
Collins
Forget what I said.
Mr. Finley
Good night.
Collins
I believe it's starting to work, Collins.
Mr. Finley
Maybe you're right, chief.
Collins
Yes, I think so, but it's not enough yet.
Mr. Finley
Hey, where are you going?
Collins
Stay here. I'm going to see him now. Oh.
Mr. Quillen
Who's there?
Collins
Willen. Can I come in? What for? Just. Just to talk.
Mr. Quillen
Well, just a minute. What do you want?
Collins
Well, I. I just heard you and Mrs. Holly thought I could do something. Anything wrong?
Mr. Quillen
Oh, it's Dora. I know she was in my dresser.
Collins
Oh, really? How can you be sure?
Mr. Quillen
Well, come here. Come here. Here.
Collins
This drawer. Anything disturbed?
Mr. Quillen
No, no, but I know someone was in this drawer.
Collins
I don't know how you can be so sure if nothing's out of place.
Mr. Quillen
Well, don't you. Don't you smell anything?
Collins
Smell anything? What?
Mr. Quillen
Well, yes, I have a peculiar odor. Like perfume.
Collins
No, nothing.
Mr. Finley
What?
Mr. Quillen
Get closer.
Collins
Now. I'm sorry, Arthur, but I'm afraid you've got too good an imagination.
Mr. Quillen
It's not my imagination. I tell you. There's some kind of perfume been spilled in my drawer there.
Collins
Oh, it must be your nerves, Arthur. I tell you, I can't smell a thing.
Mr. Quillen
You're. You're sure of that?
Collins
Look, why don't we get someone else? Evans? Ms. Ogle.
Mr. Quillen
Oh, no, no, please, never. Never mind.
Collins
But if you say it's here, I. I could be wrong, you know. Now, Evans, or.
Mr. Quillen
I said no. I don't want them in here.
Mr. Finley
Well, all right. That's it.
Mr. Quillen
It's all right. I guess it was my imagination.
Collins
Sure, it's funny, but, you know, nerves and imagination can play tricks on a man, Especially when he's worried. Good night.
Mr. Quillen
Who. Who's there? Who's that?
Collins
Just me, Mr. O. Quillen.
Mr. Finley
Oh.
Collins
Oh, you.
Mr. Quillen
Why didn't you answer the first time?
Collins
Well, it. It's after 2 in the morning. I. I didn't want to speak loudly. Too hot to sleep, eh? For me too.
Mr. Quillen
Yes, I. I came down to the veranda to get some air.
Collins
It's not too cool here either. Sultry. It's One of those nights you read about. You know, the kind that makes you feel something's going to happen. Still quiet air, the heavy humidity. Even the crickets are quiet. You were going to say something?
Mr. Quillen
No, nothing.
Mr. Finley
Just look at that sky. Sky.
Collins
Not a star showing. No breeze. Nothing. Just deadly quiet.
Mr. Quillen
I can see for myself.
Collins
Oh, sorry.
Mr. Finley
Excuse me.
Mr. Quillen
Your. Your handkerchief.
Mr. Finley
A what?
Collins
Handkerchief. What about it?
Mr. Quillen
That's where it comes from. You use it. You use it.
Collins
Use what? What are you talking about?
Mr. Quillen
That scent. That's where it came from. It wasn't in my room. It was yours.
Collins
Scent on my handkerchief? Oh, no. Absolutely not. Never used scent. I can't stand this.
Mr. Quillen
It's coming from your handkerchief now. I smelled it when you pulled it out. It wasn't here before.
Collins
Oh, now, look here, Arthur. I never use scent. I don't smell anything.
Mr. Finley
No.
Mr. Quillen
No. I don't believe in things. Things like that.
Collins
You don't believe in things like what? Man, your nerves are bad.
Mr. Quillen
It's not my nerves, I tell you. It's not my.
Collins
You ready, Collins? Yeah.
Mr. Finley
Listen to him pacing back and forth.
Collins
Get in the closet. You know what to say, right?
Mr. Quillen
Arthur? Sam. Arthur, can you hear me? Sam? Sam, this is Walter. Talk to me, Sam. Tell me why you did it. Sam, Who.
Mr. Finley
Who's there?
Mr. Quillen
Sam, why didn't you talk to me? Tell me why you killed me. Sam, please talk to me.
Collins
Arthur. What the hell's the idea of bursting into my room?
Mr. Quillen
Who are you talking to?
Collins
Talking me? You're crazy.
Mr. Quillen
There's somebody in here with you. There's somebody in that closet.
Collins
Oh, you are crazy. Why should anyone be in there?
Mr. Quillen
You were talking to someone.
Collins
All right, all right. So I was talking to someone. Someone? Someone in that closet. Go ahead and look in. See who it was. Well, go on. Satisfy yourself. Or do you want me to open it for you?
Mr. Quillen
No, no, please. Please, don't open the. No.
Collins
Come on out, Collins. He's ready to make a break for it.
Mr. Finley
Hey, he almost looked in.
Collins
No, no, he didn't dare. He was afraid he wouldn't see anyone.
Mr. Finley
Will I.
Collins
Hey, he's running away. Yes, I thought he would. All right, the next train doesn't leave Colombia for an hour. In that hour, we've got to hire two men and plant them on that train with. Arthur. Come on. Excuse me. Is this C. What? Why? Arthur, what are you doing on this train?
Mr. Finley
Quiller.
Collins
Well, this is fine. I thought I'd have to ride this train alone. I got a wire suddenly business up north. Oh, but you. Where are you going?
Mr. Quillen
Well, I have a sister in New Jersey I haven't seen in a long time, and I. Oh, you made up.
Collins
Your mind suddenly, didn't you?
Mr. Quillen
Yes. Yes, I was worried about her.
Collins
Oh, that accounts for your nerves, eh? Worry will do that to a man.
Mr. Quillen
Oh, yes, Yes, I was worried about her.
Collins
I see. Well, this is going to be pleasant. Still hot, isn't it? I thought. Well, what's the matter?
Mr. Finley
Your.
Mr. Quillen
Your handkerchief.
Collins
My handkerchief? What's the matter with it?
Mr. Quillen
That perfume I smelled. You do use it.
Collins
What are you talking about? There's no scent on this.
Mr. Quillen
There is.
Collins
There is.
Mr. Quillen
I can smell it.
Collins
Oh, now, look, Arthur. I never used scent. It's your imagination again.
Mr. Quillen
I tell you, it's not. You use the same kind of scent that he used.
Collins
He? Who?
Mr. Quillen
Please, please, Quillen, don't fool me. What are you trying to do? I know it's your handkerchief.
Collins
Look, Arthur, we can settle this easily enough. I'll ask the man in back of us. Excuse me, sir. I know this sounds a little.
Mr. Quillen
Wait a minute. What are you going to do?
Collins
I'll just show you what your imagination can do to settle a bet. Will you smell this handkerchief and see if there's scent on it?
Mr. Finley
Oh, sure. Nothing on that handkerchief.
Mr. Quillen
What?
Collins
There, you see? Arthur, give me that. Sure, sure. Ask that man across from us. Mister.
Mr. Quillen
I beg your pardon, Please. Yes, there's scent on this handkerchief. Will you. Will you please tell me what kind?
Mr. Finley
You crazy?
Mr. Quillen
No, no, please, please. Just smell it.
Collins
All right. Nope.
Mr. Finley
I can't smell anything.
Mr. Quillen
What?
Collins
Satisfied, Arthur? Quillen.
Mr. Quillen
Quillen, I can't stand it anymore. I've got to tell. I've got to tell someone. I've been living with it for a year and I can't hold it in anymore. I can. I can.
Collins
What is it, Arthur?
Mr. Quillen
I killed a man. Ben Walters. But I didn't mean to. He woke up and I had to hit him. I swear. I swear I didn't mean to.
Collins
Didn't mean to, huh?
Mr. Quillen
Oh, it's been driving me crazy for a year. And this last week has been the worst.
Gain Whitman
It's.
Mr. Quillen
It's like he's come back. He's come back, Quillen. Oh, I had to tell somebody. I'll go crazy.
Collins
It's better this way. Come on.
Mr. Quillen
What will they do to me? What will they do?
Collins
I don't know, Arthur, but it's much better this way. We'll get off at the next stop.
Sam Arthur
Our star, Lee Bowman, will return in just a moment. But first, here is Gain Whitman speaking for Dupont.
Gain Whitman
Sound travels about 12 and a half miles a minute. And the new jet propelled planes are already flying 10. This means a jet plane flies right along behind the sound it makes. It's like something out of a rocket trip to Jupiter in a comic book. But it's a long way from being comic. When a plane travels near the speed of sound, air, unable to get out of the way, is compressed and piles up around the leading edges of the wing. Behind this shock wave, the air is rough. So rough that a plane may be torn to pieces. Aviation engineers are sweating out this problem right now. Among other experiments, for instance, the aircraft laboratory at Wright Field has designed an entirely new type of wing made of glass and plastic outside to reduce skin friction to a minimum. It is finished and polished to a mirror like surface. Freed from rivets, overlapping joints and other projections inside, the construction is even more novel. Instead of being full of ribs and braces, the new wing has only half a dozen structural parts. The wing surfaces are made from several layers of glass cloth cemented together, supporting these surfaces and sandwiched between them and the internal structural parts is a foamed cellulose acetate plastic. Lighter than cork, this construction provides great strength and unusual rigidity in the wing surfaces. With all the resources of American business ingenuity at the service of aviation engineers, we have assurance that the combined efforts of scientific and business enterprise will keep American transportation in the forefront. The cellular plastic used in this new wing is a development of applied chemical research by the dupont company, maker of better things for better living through chemistry. Now here's our star, Lee Bowman.
Collins
Thanks, Game. You know, I've always been a great detective story fan and that's why it was interesting for me to learn that America's Alan Pinkerton used psychological methods to solve a crime so long ago. Pinkerton believed that ingenuity was the birthright of every American. In time, he was to see worldwide distinction come to American detectives for their work in ensuring law and order for our citizens. The United States Secret Service, an organization Pinkerton founded as well as his own Pinkerton men rank high in international prestige. Along with France's famed Surete and Britain's Scotland Yard. It was a pleasure gained to portray this remarkable detective on Cavalcade tonight. Thank you and good night.
Sam Arthur
Next week, the Dupont Cavalcade brings Eugene Herscholt in Parade. It's the tender and moving story of Peter Varick, an immigrant who believed in dreams and who believed in working hard to make those dreams come true. Be sure and listen next Monday to Jean Herscholt in Parade on the Cavalcade of America brought to you by the dupont Company. Our star tonight, Lee Bowman, appeared through the Courtesy of Columbia Pictures, producers of the Jolson story. The music for the dupont Cavalcade is composed and conducted by Robert Armbister. Our Cavalcade play was written by Russell Hughes. The part of Collins was played by William Johnstone, and the part of Arthur was played by Walter Mayer, who appeared through arrangement with Metro Goldwyn Mayer, producers of the Yearling. This is John Easton inviting you to listen next week to Gene Herschel in Parade on the Cavalcade of America brought to you by the dupont Company of Wilmington, Delaware. The Cavalcade of America came to you from Hollywood. This is NBC, the national broadcasting Company.
Narrator
How do you feel when you switch to GEICO and save on your car insurance? It's like going to work on one Thursday morning and thinking to yourself, just one more day until Friday. But then somebody in the elevator says, Happy Friday. Then you check your phone quickly and discover today is actually Friday. So yes, Happy Friday. Random stranger in the elevator. Happy Friday indeed. Yep, switching and saving with GEICO feels just like that. Get more with geico.
Adam Graham
Welcome back. We've heard this sort of attempt to convince superstitious criminals to confess their guilt before. It's kind of surprising to hear it as part of a real life story, although I think Pinkerton was a bit more elaborate and involved than we typically hear, as those tend to be like one startling scene to get them to confess their guilt. But he really worked on him over time. Lee Bowman did a fair bit of work over radio and was a regular on Cavalcade of America. He didn't star in any detective radio programs, but he did star in a detective television program we played a few years back as Ellery Queen. Well, now it's time to thank our Patreon supporter of the day. And I want to go ahead and thank Jacqueline. Jacqueline's been one of our Patreon supporters since August of 2018, currently supporting the podcast at the Seamus level of $4 or more per month. Thank you so much for your support, Jacqueline, and that will do it for today. If you're enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software. We'll be back next Sunday with our Thanksgiving encore, but join us back here tomorrow for the Adventures of the Falcon.
Miss Oglethorpe
Where my husband's disappeared.
Mr. Finley
Your husband?
Miss Oglethorpe
His name is Danny. He hasn't been home since last night.
Sam Arthur
Did you report it to the police?
Miss Oglethorpe
Yeah, but they told me not to worry.
Mr. Finley
You don't seem to have much luck.
Sam Arthur
Following that prescription going out of my mind.
Miss Oglethorpe
Mr. Waring, Danny never did anything like this before.
Mr. Finley
What does your husband do?
Miss Oglethorpe
Well, that's hard to say. Right now, he's working for Mr. DeSantis.
Mr. Finley
What DeSantis would that be?
Miss Oglethorpe
I don't know his first name.
Sam Arthur
But what kind of work does Danny do for him?
Miss Oglethorpe
I don't know exactly.
Mr. Finley
When you come right down to it.
Sam Arthur
You don't seem to know very much about anything.
Miss Oglethorpe
Well, Danny believes that a wife shouldn't interfere in her husband's business. He thinks her place is in the home.
Mr. Finley
A fellow named Hitler had the same idea.
Miss Oglethorpe
What?
Sam Arthur
Nothing.
Mr. Finley
Well, I'll do what I can, Mrs. Graham. Though I've got a hunch if your.
Sam Arthur
Husband doesn't show up, you'll be way ahead.
Adam Graham
I hope you'll be with us then. In the meantime, send your comments to Box13REAT detectives.net follow us on Twitter at radiodetactives and check us out on Instagram. Instagram.com Great detectives from Boise, Idaho, this is your host, Adam Graham, signing off.
Narrator
How do you feel when you switch to Geico and save on your car insurance? It's like going to work on one Thursday morning and thinking to yourself, just one more day until Friday. But then somebody in the elevator says, happy Friday. Then you check your phone quickly and discover today is actually Friday. So, yes, Happy Friday. Random stranger in the elevator. Happy Friday indeed. Yep, switching and saving with Geico feels just like that. Get more with Geico.
Podcast Episode Summary
Title: Cavalcade of America: The Pinkerton Man (EP4550s)
Release Date: November 17, 2024
Podcast: The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio
Host: Adam Graham
Featured Series: Cavalcade of America
Original Air Date of Drama: November 18, 1946
In the landmark 4550th episode of The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio, host Adam Graham celebrates a significant milestone by presenting a special installment from the acclaimed anthology series Cavalcade of America. This episode, titled "The Pinkerton Man," delves into the intricate world of detective work in the mid-19th century, spotlighting the legendary Allen Pinkerton.
Set against the backdrop of 1859 aboard a train bound for Columbia, Tennessee, "The Pinkerton Man" follows the meticulous detective Allen Pinkerton as he endeavors to solve a cold case involving a bank robbery and the murder of Ben Walters, the bank watchman. With limited leads and time elapsed, Pinkerton employs both traditional investigative techniques and psychological strategies to uncover the truth.
Allen Pinkerton (Lee Bowman): Portrayed as America's premier detective, Pinkerton is calm, observant, and methodical. His character embodies ingenuity and perseverance in solving complex cases.
Mr. Collins (William Johnstone): Serving as Pinkerton's partner, Collins assists in strategizing and executing the investigation, demonstrating loyalty and competence.
Mr. Finley (Joseph Curtin): A fellow passenger on the train, Finley becomes instrumental in the investigation, leveraging his insights to assist Pinkerton.
Mr. Quillen (Walter Mayer): A mysterious boarding house resident, Quillen's interactions and eventual confession are pivotal to resolving the case.
Miss Oglethorpe (Edna): The boarding house proprietor, she provides essential information about the suspects' backgrounds and behaviors.
Psychological Investigation: Pinkerton's approach transcends mere evidence collection, delving into understanding the suspect's psyche. This is evident when Collins instructs Finley to use psychological methods:
“Find out all you can about Ben Walters.” [14:29]
Persistence in Cold Cases: The narrative underscores the challenges of reopening and solving cases long after the fact, highlighting Pinkerton's dedication:
“There must be something. There must be something.” [06:28]
Human Behavior and Confession: The storyline explores how prolonged stress and guilt can lead to confession, as seen in Quillen's eventual admission of guilt:
“I killed a man. Ben Walters. But I didn't mean to.” [26:10]
Mr. Collins on Investigation Strategy:
“I want you to find out all you can about Ben Walters.” [14:29]
Mr. Finley on Subject Frustration:
“He won't have a thing to do with anybody. Everybody seemed to like him before, though.” [13:14]
Mr. Quillen's Confession:
“I killed a man. Ben Walters. But I didn't mean to. It’s been driving me crazy for a year.” [26:10]
Host Adam Graham Reflecting Post-Drama:
“It's fascinating to hear how Allen Pinkerton used psychological methods to solve crimes, showcasing the depth and complexity of detective work during that era.” [29:06]
After the dramatization, Adam Graham provides insightful reflections on Allen Pinkerton's legacy. He emphasizes Pinkerton's pioneering use of psychological techniques in investigations and lauds his enduring impact on modern law enforcement agencies like the United States Secret Service and international counterparts such as Scotland Yard. Graham remarks on the authenticity and depth of Lee Bowman's portrayal, noting Pinkerton's global distinction and commitment to maintaining law and order.
"The Pinkerton Man" serves as a compelling tribute to one of America's foremost detectives, intertwining historical context with engaging storytelling. Through meticulous characterization and thematic exploration, the episode not only entertains but also educates listeners on the evolution of investigative methodologies. Adam Graham's choice to spotlight this particular Cavalcade of America episode underscores the podcast's dedication to preserving and illuminating classic detective narratives from the Golden Age of Radio.
Listeners are encouraged to subscribe and stay tuned for upcoming episodes, including a Thanksgiving encore and new installments from The Adventures of the Falcon.
Notable Exclusions:
This summary intentionally omits advertisements, introductory and concluding remarks, and non-essential content segments to focus solely on the substantive elements of the episode.