Charlie Chan: Chan Gets Tough/The Telegram (EP4726)

Summary

The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio | Episode Summary: "Charlie Chan: Chan Gets Tough/The Telegram" (EP4726)

Release Date: June 10, 2025
Host: Adam Graham
Podcast Season: Fifteenth Season

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Introduction

In Episode 4726 of "The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio," host Adam Graham delves into the classic detective series featuring Charlie Chan. This episode, titled "Chan Gets Tough/The Telegram," brings listeners back to the Golden Age of Radio with a compelling mystery set at Pine View, near Lake Tahoe. Graham not only presents the gripping narrative but also offers insightful commentary that enhances the listening experience, making it accessible and engaging for both newcomers and long-time fans of old-time radio dramas.

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Plot Overview

The episode unfolds with a murder mystery revolving around Ellen Landini and Dr. Swann, both found dead at Pine View. Suspicion initially falls on Dr. Swann, but Chan's meticulous investigation reveals that every guest has a potential motive, complicating the case.

Accusations and Tensions:

• Charlie Chan (03:28): Quickly zeroes in on John Ryder Landini, Ellen's second husband, accusing him of withholding vital information critical to solving the murders.
• John Ryder Landini (04:55): Denies Chan's allegations, displaying a mix of defiance and dismissiveness towards the investigation.
• Ellen Landini (05:11): Expresses indifference towards aiding the investigation, admitting personal animosity towards her victims.

Key Developments:

• Evidence Unearthed: A letter postmarked from Honolulu becomes a pivotal piece of evidence, suggesting connections beyond Pine View and indicating deeper layers to the mystery.
• Charlie Chan's Personal Insights (07:36): Chan shares personal anecdotes about his large family in Hawaii, adding depth to his character and contrasting him with the typically solitary detectives of the era.
• Suspicions Around Romano: Mr. Romano emerges as a prime suspect due to his eagerness to inherit and his cryptic statements regarding the murders.

Climactic Revelations:

• Major Evidence (17:23): A telegram from Landini's New York attorney reveals that Romano had prior knowledge of Landini's unsigned will, significantly implicating him in the murder.
• Cecile Beaton's Discovery (24:34): A seemingly innocuous moment where a mirror reflection hints at hidden motives and secrets, leading to Cecile's uneasy confession and further unraveling the mystery.

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Character Analysis

Charlie Chan:

• Portrayal (03:02 - 09:16): Chan is depicted as a methodical and compassionate detective. His interactions reveal a man torn between his duty and his deep-seated love for his large family.
• Personal Touch (09:16 - 10:02): Chan's discussions about his children and life in Hawaii humanize him, setting him apart from the often aloof detectives of old-time fiction.

John Ryder Landini:

• Defensive Stance (04:55 - 08:07): John's initial denial and defensiveness suggest a hidden agenda, making him a complex antagonist.
• Interaction with Romano (10:02 - 14:19): His collaboration with Sheriff Ward highlights the collusion among suspects to divert suspicion away from themselves.

Mr. Romano:

• Mysterious Behavior (12:22 - 17:50): Romano's evasive answers and eventual breakdown provide critical clues, indicating his involvement in the murders.
• Final Confession (19:36 - 21:35): Romano's breakdown and admission, though initially fraught with confusion, ultimately lead to the unraveling of his motives and actions.

Cecile Beaton:

• Suspicious Actions (24:34 - 26:16): Cecile's furtive behavior and attempt to hide something critical in her skirt point to her unwitting or complicit role in the mystery.
• Gun Revelation (26:27 - 26:07): Her possession and attempted concealment of a .45 caliber gun add a layer of intrigue, suggesting possible self-defense or deeper involvement.

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Insights and Themes

Family and Loyalty: Charlie Chan's deep connection to his large family serves as a recurring theme, emphasizing the importance of loyalty and personal bonds over professional duties. His character embodies the balance between familial responsibilities and the relentless pursuit of justice.

Motive and Opportunity: The episode meticulously explores the classic detective fiction elements of motive and opportunity. Each character's potential motive is scrutinized, with Chan adeptly dissecting their alibis and interactions to unveil the truth.

Cultural Nuances: Chan's Hawaiian heritage and use of native terms (e.g., "makai") add cultural depth to the narrative, highlighting diversity within the detective genre of the era.

Psychological Tension: The interplay between suspects, especially between Chan and Romano, delves into psychological manipulation and the lengths individuals will go to conceal the truth or achieve personal gain.

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Notable Quotes

1. Charlie Chan's Accusation of Ryder (04:58):

   • "No, Mr. Ryder. I am not given to making rash accusations. You have been withholding vital information. You have told half truths. These things you cannot deny."
     [04:58]

2. Ellen Landini's Apathy (05:25):

   • "Quite frankly, Chan, I really don't care. I freely admit that I hated her. She. She treated me as no one should treat a sick dog. A murderer can go scot-free for all of me."
     [05:25]

3. Charlie Chan on Family (09:17):

   • "Mr. Chan is a most delightful person. Children are the most fond and proud parent home itself. Besides, beautiful setting. Is source of inspiration and constant source of joy."
     [09:17]

4. Romano’s Breakdown (20:18):

   • "I am so upset. This American law, it is so confusing. What I saw, it was nothing. But I will tell you. I am in my room, looking out at a flying field. I see plain light and for time I watch it."
     [20:18]

5. Charlie Chan's Reflection (27:57):

   • "I am thinking of a Chinese proverb which says, when a man is seen continuously in company of worthy persons, his name will be free from taint of scandal. But when a man has reputation of consorting with persons of ill repute, protesting his innocence will avail him but little."
     [27:57]

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Conclusion

"Charlie Chan: Chan Gets Tough/The Telegram" masterfully captures the essence of old-time radio detective dramas, combining intricate plotting with rich character development. Adam Graham's thoughtful commentary further enhances the narrative, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of the characters' motivations and the story's underlying themes. This episode not only entertains but also pays homage to the timeless appeal of Charlie Chan as a compassionate and astute detective, navigating complex social dynamics and unraveling mysteries with grace and intelligence.

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Additional Insights by Host Adam Graham

Towards the episode's conclusion, Adam Graham offers his unique perspective on the portrayal of Charlie Chan, highlighting the character's warmth and familial aspects as distinguishing factors from other detectives of the era. He emphasizes Chan's role as a devoted father of eleven, which adds a layer of depth and relatability often absent in other fictional detectives who are typically portrayed as solitary figures.

Key Points from Adam Graham's Commentary:

• Character Depth: "The sort of warmth and dimension to his character makes him stand out from many of his brethren in the world of fictional Golden Age detectives."
• Family Influence: "His general demeanor and approach as a family man ground him, which is an underrated appeal that makes him stand out."
• Suspect Analysis: Graham expresses skepticism towards Romano's motives and alibi, suggesting that legal complexities and estate proceedings will impede Romano's ability to flee, thereby placing further suspicion on his character.

Graham's analysis not only enriches the listener's experience but also encourages a deeper appreciation for the nuanced storytelling that "The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio" brings to life.

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Final Thoughts

This episode serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of old-time radio dramas and their ability to captivate audiences with timeless storytelling and memorable characters. "Charlie Chan: Chan Gets Tough/The Telegram" stands out as a quintessential example of the genre, skillfully blending suspense, character development, and insightful narration to deliver an unforgettable listening experience.

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Thank you for tuning into "The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio." Be sure to subscribe and follow Adam Graham for more enthralling episodes from the Golden Age of Radio.

Transcript

[Adam Graham]

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[Charlie Chan]

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[Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids]

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[Adam Graham]

Welcome to the Great Detectives of Old Time Radio from Boise, Idaho. This is your host, Adam Graham. In a moment, we're going to bring you this week's episodes of Charlie Chan. But first, I do want to encourage you. If you're enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software. So I want to let you know about one of our other podcasts and today I'm focusing on Public Domain Video Theater. This summer we are going to be bringing you three movies of 70 minutes or more, with the first one coming up this weekend. You can watch them on the video companion to this podcast, Public Domain Video theater [e-mail] on our YouTube channel and also on Spotify, where we are also reposting from our back catalog as we build an audience on Spotify. So do check that out. Now, from 1935 or 1936, here are our next two chapters. Chan gets Tough and the Telegram.

[Narrator]

The most delightfully fascinating character in the realms of mystery. Charlie Chan.

[Charlie Chan]

Sam.

[Narrator]

At Pine View, near beautiful Lake Tahoe, Ellen Landini and Dr. Swann have been murdered. Suspicion had pointed definitely toward Dr. Swann, but with the finding of his body, all the guests at Pine View fall under renewed suspicion. In the eyes of the law. Every person there had ample motive. Each could have killed the famous singer, and no one really has a satisfactory explanation of his or her actions at the time the crime was committed. Charlie Chan has questioned and re questioned John Ryder Landini's second husband and finally, after considerable thought, the Honolulu detective bluntly accuses Ryder of thinking that he. Ryder knows who murdered Landini.

[Ellen Landini]

You must be out of your mind, Chan, to suggest such a thing.

[Charlie Chan]

No, Mr. Ryder. I am not given to making rash accusations. You have been withholding vital information. You have told half truth. These things you cannot deny.

[Ellen Landini]

I have told you before, Chan. Neither you nor the entire police force can make me say what I don't wish to say.

[Charlie Chan]

Then you have no desire to assist in the capture of the murderer? No wish to see Madame Landini's untimely death?

[Ellen Landini]

Quite frankly, Chan, I really don't care. I freely admit that I hated her. She. She treated me as no one should treat a sick dog. A murderer can go scot free for all of me.

[Charlie Chan]

Mr. Ryder, I. I am ashamed of you. You do not realize the seriousness of your statement. But more than that, and more disappointing than that, your callousness Ill becomes a man of your intelligence. Ill becomes a man moving in the society to which you belong. Come in. Oh, Mr. Ward.

[Ellen Landini]

Dudley. James got the idea in the back of his head that I know who the murderer is.

[Adam Graham]

What?

[Ellen Landini]

What's that?

[Charlie Chan]

My exact words were, I believe, Mr. Ward. I have reason to believe that Mr. Ryder knows who murdered Madame Landini.

[Ellen Landini]

Surely you must be mist. If John knew, he would most certainly tell.

[Charlie Chan]

So sorry to be in contradiction to you, Mr. Ward, but I disagree. Mr. Ryder would never tell.

[Ellen Landini]

For once, Chan is right. But, John, that's a very curious attitude to take. A very serious attitude to take. Sorry, Dudley, but that's the way I feel. If there's nothing else in the way of an inquisition, I'm going downstairs to join in a rubber fridge. I'll join you in a moment, John. Something must have upset John Ryder. He isn't generally stubborn. Tell me, Inspector, are we any nearer a solution?

[Charlie Chan]

Mr. Ward, we are very close to solution. But as to being close to material evidence which will obtain for State a conviction, no, not so close.

[Ellen Landini]

Come in.

[Ms. Beaton]

Here you are, Mr. Chairman. Good news for you. Yes, A letter postmarked Honolulu.

[Charlie Chan]

Oh, thank you so much, Ms. Beaton.

[Ellen Landini]

I'm going down to arrange about lunch. If you need me, I'll be in the kitchen talking to Mrs. O' Farrell.

[Charlie Chan]

Yes, Mr. Ward. No, do not go, Ms. Beaton. Please sit down.

[Ms. Beaton]

Don and his father are on their way up. Oh, yes.

[Charlie Chan]

Here they are now landed. Come in, Sheriff. Mr. Holt. Honored that you should join us again. Am I excused? For a moment while I read contents of letter from honorable mother of my children.

[Ms. Beaton]

Of course, Mr. Chan, that goes without saying.

[John Ryder]

There you are, dad. Sit down by the window.

[Ellen Landini]

Thank you, son.

[Ms. Beaton]

Who brought you over? Mr. Hughes.

[Ellen Landini]

Cash. Cash Shannon Don's deputy.

[John Ryder]

I'll bet he suggested it.

[Ellen Landini]

Well, son, now that you mention it, he did.

[John Ryder]

I knew it. He heard there was a pretty girl over here. And he drove that old tin can just as fast as he could. I'll bet he only hit every second bump in the road.

[Ms. Beaton]

Well, Mr. Chan, good news from Punchbowl Hill.

[Charlie Chan]

Yes, yes, Ms. Beaton. We have additional reasons for speeding solution to Flandini's murder.

[John Ryder]

Yeah.

[Charlie Chan]

I must soon leave for Honolulu. To be in time for first birthday of sun. I hope, son.

[Ms. Beaton]

You hope?

[Ellen Landini]

I didn't know you had a baby, Mr. Chan.

[Charlie Chan]

Perhaps words first birthday are ambiguous. Perhaps more correct to say initial birthday.

[Ellen Landini]

Kind of anxious to get home, aren't you, Mr. Chan?

[Charlie Chan]

Indeed, yes, Mr. Holt. Man gets very lonesome away from center of family circle. Larger that circle is more lonesome man gets, it seems to me. And I have very large family circle, Mrs. Chan. And 11 children.

[Ms. Beaton]

Tell us about them, Mr. Chan.

[Charlie Chan]

What shall I say? Mr. Chan is most delightful person. Children of them I am most fond and proud parent Home itself. Besides, beautiful setting. Is source of inspiration and constant source of joy.

[John Ryder]

I'll bet it's beautiful.

[Ms. Beaton]

I'd like to see it.

[Charlie Chan]

Perhaps someday. You may.

[Ms. Beaton]

Well, now, Mr.

[Charlie Chan]

Chair. Yes, I am serious. However, we have business to discuss. I have had very strange interview with Mr. Ryder. Which did nothing else but convince me that he thinks he knows who murdered Landini.

[John Ryder]

He thinks our Singh did it, eh?

[Charlie Chan]

That is correct. He apparently has followed same line of reasoning as we.

[John Ryder]

But don't forget that Ryder was the one who might have tried to throw blame on AH Singh. By bringing up the fact that AH Singh had broken his glasses.

[Ellen Landini]

Yeah, but, son, that wouldn't change the main point. That AH Singh's glasses were broken. And that the fellow who mixed the cigarette box lids. And fetched the wrong colored scarf. Wasn't seeing any too well.

[Charlie Chan]

And added to that is a disturbing element of Mr. Hugh Beaton. Having heard Landini order someone to get her scarf.

[Ellen Landini]

Darn it, if that boy sing don't quit cropping up in this case, it'll just naturally break my heart.

[Ms. Beaton]

May I say something? I don't think that Romano's surprise was very genuine. When he learned that Landini had never signed her new will. The will in which she was to leave everything to Hugh.

[Charlie Chan]

That is quite correct, Ms. Beaton. One should remember that even if one wins the race. The Torn Sandal betrays the stumble. Romano should have realized that I would make discovery that he wrote Ms. Meecher asking about said will.

[John Ryder]

But look here, Inspector. If Romano had wanted to throw suspicion on anyone, he could have thrown plenty on our thing.

[Charlie Chan]

That is true, Sheriff. Perhaps it is that Mr. Romano spoke truly when he said that he had given us clues. Importance of which no one of us is able to grasp. Perhaps when you go, Mac eye, you had better send Mr. Romano to see me go.

[Ms. Beaton]

Makai. What's that?

[Charlie Chan]

Another word of my native Hawaii. That you will have working knowledge of Hawaii before you make trip to paradise. The Pacific. Makai means below, down, underneath. No, on second thought, I shall accompany you. Ah, I perceive Mr. Romano entering own room.

[Mr. Romano]

Oh, Mr. Chan, if possible, I would like word with you.

[Charlie Chan]

Certainly, Mr. Romano. I will join you all downstairs. That's correct. You are our pupil? Yes, Mr. Romano.

[Mr. Romano]

Will you sit down, please?

[Charlie Chan]

Thank you. And what, Mr. Romano, is troubling you, Mr. Chan?

[Mr. Romano]

This news I have received, this fortune which have been dropping my lap, so to speak, it has made vast difference in my life.

[Charlie Chan]

Pleasant one, no doubt.

[Mr. Romano]

Naturally. From a pupper I ascend suddenly to a man of property. What is my first reaction? To get away from this spot, lovely as it may be, to hasten to New York, to realize my inheritance to London, of Paris, the continent, where I shall feel at home. I shall sit in the twilight in the piazza at Venice while the band plays music. Ah, yes, amuse it. Perhaps again I shall conduct opera. Who knows? Oh, but I ramble. Tell me, Mr. Chan, we unlucky ones who cannot give a satisfactory account of ourselves, how long must we languish here?

[Charlie Chan]

You must languish till guilty person be found.

[Mr. Romano]

Then we may go.

[Charlie Chan]

Those who are not concerned, yes.

[Mr. Romano]

But one who had information, who perhaps assist in the arrest of the guilty. What of him?

[Charlie Chan]

That one would, of course be forced to linger here.

[Mr. Romano]

Ah, that would be so unfortunate for him. But then I am not surprised that long ago I find that there is no justice in American law.

[Charlie Chan]

And this information you have, Mr. Romano, which will assist in arrested murderer. What is it?

[Mr. Romano]

I do not understand them, Mr. China.

[Charlie Chan]

I thought, Mr. Romano, that what I asked you was this information, which you fear may keep you here longer than you desire to stay. What is it?

[Mr. Romano]

Oh, you are mistaken, Mr. Chen. I do not have such information. I was merely asking, shall we say, hypothetical question.

[Charlie Chan]

So sorry, Mr. Romano, but you are not telling truth. You have information, but to disclose same. You are afraid, senor.

[Mr. Romano]

You are attacking my honor.

[Charlie Chan]

I am enough. Please. You will not tell me?

[Mr. Romano]

I have nothing to say, Mr. Chandler.

[Charlie Chan]

Later, perhaps, Mr. Romano. After I have received answer to wires sent to Madame Landini's lawyers in New York. You may change your mind.

[Mr. Romano]

You have a wire Them? What do you wire them?

[Charlie Chan]

That Mr. Romano used to learn in due course. One thing sadly lacking in this mystery is true motive for murder. If person knew that he would benefit by death of Madame Landini. Then that person would probably be arrested by police.

[Mr. Romano]

But, Mr. Chandler, that is not a fair. It is outrageous, monstrous. Why should I anyone be?

[Charlie Chan]

Ah, drama. Then shall we go together? But perhaps I should not insist. Perhaps now you do not have very good appetite for lunch.

[Narrator]

So Romano has information and then attempts to deny it. And what of his alarm at the fact that Charlie Chan has wired Landini's New York attorney? Your sponsor has a word for you. After which Inspector Chan will be with us again. Well, Mr. Chan, what have you in mind for tonight?

[Charlie Chan]

Letter from my honorable wife. Mr. Wilson is uppermost in my thoughts. I am reminded of Chinese emperor many centuries ago. Who was informed that efforts were being made to remove him from throne. He replied, palace walls may crumble under the onslaught. The peacock throne may be occupied by usurper. My yellow jacket may be torn from my back. But if the wife of my youth remain true, I shall be yet an emperor.

[Narrator]

Thank you, Mr. Chan, and good night. Charlie Chan has just risen from the lunch table. When Ajit AH Singh enters with a telegram in his hand.

[Charlie Chan]

On a Telegram for you, Mr. Chan. Thank you. Ah Singh. Excuse me, please, while I read this.

[Ms. Beaton]

Certainly.

[John Ryder]

Cash coming back for you, dad?

[Charlie Chan]

Yes.

[Ellen Landini]

Said he'd pick me up about 7.

[John Ryder]

News, Mr. Chan?

[Charlie Chan]

Yes, indeed, Mr. Romano?

[Mr. Romano]

Oh, yes, Mr. Chan.

[Charlie Chan]

When you finish your lunch, please join us in the study.

[Mr. Romano]

If it is really necessary, I was a good.

[Charlie Chan]

Please, Mr. Romano, join us in the study. Can I help you, Mr. Holt?

[Ellen Landini]

Yeah, yeah. If you don't mind, Mr. Chan, bring Ms. Beaton.

[Charlie Chan]

Sheriff, if you will be so kind.

[John Ryder]

Right now. Come on, Leslie.

[Ms. Beaton]

All right.

[Ellen Landini]

Is serious, Mr. Chan?

[Charlie Chan]

Quite, Mr. Holt. Telegram from Ellen Landini's New York attorney.

[Ellen Landini]

Oh, that's it, is it?

[Charlie Chan]

Yeah. Top step, Mr. Holt? Yeah.

[Ellen Landini]

I get so inclined to count them automatically.

[John Ryder]

Well, what is it, Inspector?

[Ms. Beaton]

You look very serious, Mr. Chand.

[Charlie Chan]

Indeed? Yes, Ms. Beaton. Despite expectations of our profession, approaching arrest always produces depressing feeling. Be so kind as to close doors, Sheriff.

[Ellen Landini]

Really.

[Charlie Chan]

Thank you so much. Telegram is from Landini's lawyers, New York. It informs us that Mr. Romano knew that new will leaving property to Hugh Beaton. Had not been signed according to information. Romano wrote for information previous to arrival at Pine View and that he received information likewise before arrival at Pine View.

[Ellen Landini]

That is serious.

[Charlie Chan]

Now becomes necessary, Ms. Beaton, to ask you to most carefully search your memory as to whether or not Mr. Romano was last person you saw leaving study night of Landini's murder.

[Ms. Beaton]

Inspector, I. I don't want to be the one.

[John Ryder]

I know, Leslie, but this is. Well, this is duty.

[Ms. Beaton]

But I'm so afraid of being wrong if I should have been mistaken.

[Charlie Chan]

Adopt attitude, Ms. Beaton, if you please, that you are on witness stand and are answering under oath to best of your ability.

[Ms. Beaton]

Very well, to the best of my ability. My memory says Mr. Romano left the study first, Mr. Dr. Swan second, and Mr. Ward last.

[Charlie Chan]

Romano did not return.

[Ms. Beaton]

I didn't see him.

[Ellen Landini]

Well, if that's right, it couldn't very well have been Romano.

[John Ryder]

Not unless he walked through the other rooms out onto the balcony and waited his chance. Come in.

[Charlie Chan]

Sit down. Mr. Romano, please. Mr. Romano, we have asked you here to tell us, please, what it is you hesitated to tell me before lunch.

[Mr. Romano]

I am sorry, but I do not know what it is that you mean.

[Charlie Chan]

I think you do, Mr. Romano. You asked me before lunch what would happen to one who was possessed of information which would lead to capture of murderer.

[Mr. Romano]

I tell you, I know nothing. If I said to Mr. Chen. Observe that. I say if.

[John Ryder]

Look here, Romano, you know something, so don't deny it. You don't want to tell because you're afraid it'll delay you in getting back to the bright lights and spending Landini's money. Well, it might. I can't promise. But if I can fix things so that it won't, I will. But one way or the other. Romano, you're telling or I lock you up. Get that and get it quick.

[Mr. Romano]

I am. I am so upset. This American law, it is so confusing. What I saw, it was nothing. But I will tell you. I am in my room, looking out at a flying field. I see plain light and for time I watch it. Then it comes to me. Landini will be going now. Have I accomplished my purpose?

[Ellen Landini]

No.

[Mr. Romano]

A few bills are thrown to me like I am a beggar. I, who have every right to demand. Am I not the husband? Have I not made Landini great, a singer? I go to my door. I will demand from Landini a definite appointment in Reno. I opened the door. I see a man, somewhat in the manner I am not, is the empress. Do you understand? But this man, he looks. He acts stealthily. But Then while I'm thinking, the shuttering's out.

[John Ryder]

That's all right. The man who was the man.

[Mr. Romano]

The man I saw. This man who sleeps stealthily from door to door. The man was a singer.

[John Ryder]

All right, Romano. You keep that to yourself.

[Mr. Romano]

Me, I shall not talk. First Landini, then a swan. I have no liking to be the third. It is you, I hope, that will keep these facts which I disclose to yourselves.

[John Ryder]

Yes, you can go now, eh, Mr. Chan?

[Charlie Chan]

Yes. That will be all. Thank you so much. It is useless to polish and to burnish after the guilt has worn away. No matter what we do, what we ignore, we revert always to our seeing.

[Ellen Landini]

Yeah. For all we do, for all we try to hide it, it keeps coming back to our sing.

[Ms. Beaton]

But, Mr. Chen, Romano is the one who profits by Landini's death. Ah Singh does not.

[Charlie Chan]

But money would not tempt Ah Singh to murder. We at last, me included, cannot fathom the depth to which ideas of loyalty would carry a thing.

[John Ryder]

But just the same, couldn't Romano be lying? He lied before. He could be making up this whole thing about AR Singh.

[Ellen Landini]

Yes, something to that, my boy. If Romano was trying to cook something up, who would he pick on? Poor, defenseless Ah Singh, who ain't so quick on the comeback. And yet I ain't so sure.

[Charlie Chan]

No. Why?

[Ellen Landini]

Well, if Romano was trying to fix things so it would look like our sing, would he have done it so doggone well? Wouldn't he have said that he saw Syng creeping into the study and then heard the shot? No, Inspector. It rings too true. It ties in with the facts too well.

[Charlie Chan]

Yes, Mr. Holt. It laughs much too well.

[Ms. Beaton]

But. But it's impossible.

[Charlie Chan]

What, Ms. Beaton? What is impossible?

[Ms. Beaton]

Singh would have had to pass the door to the room I was in twice. And I didn't even see him once.

[John Ryder]

But why twice, Leslie? He escapes through the balcony window. You wouldn't have seen him that time.

[Ms. Beaton]

But don't you see? The door to Landini's old room, the room Landini used to have, was locked. That had to be unlocked before Ah Sing could make his escape.

[John Ryder]

But Ah Singh would have unlocked that on his way to the study to kill landini.

[Charlie Chan]

Ah, Ms. Beaton, I congratulate you. No, Sheriff. Ah Singh would not go to the study that way first time. How could he know that Landini would be alone?

[Ellen Landini]

Dargon, you're right. Yes, Mr. Holt, but it really don't change the setup. Singh comes to the study with a blanket over his arm. He finds Landini alone. He goes out Slips through the empty room, unlocks the door to the balcony. And he goes back and closes the study door. After, he gets into the study, kills Landini, then goes out to the balcony and locks that door after him.

[John Ryder]

Guess it looks that way.

[Charlie Chan]

All right, Sheriff. Look here.

[John Ryder]

What, Inspector?

[Charlie Chan]

Look in the mirror. What do you see?

[John Ryder]

Cecile looking up and down the passage. She's got something in her hand that she's trying to hide.

[Charlie Chan]

Most furtive manner suggests that we investigate. You come with me, Sheriff. Quickly, but quietly. Cecile. Cecile.

[Ms. Beaton]

Oh, Monsieur Chen. You require something?

[Charlie Chan]

We. Sheriff and I would like to speak with you a moment.

[Ms. Beaton]

What?

[Charlie Chan]

Yes, Monsieur Chen, why did you so very carefully look up and down passageway just now? Perhaps you were looking for something.

[Ms. Beaton]

No, Monsieur Chen. But I am so very afraid. Ever since that night, madame.

[Charlie Chan]

Yes, yes, we understand that, Cecile. But what are you trying to hide there in the folds of your skirt?

[Ms. Beaton]

Me, monsieur? Why? Why, nothing, Monsieur Cecile. Not a single Cecile.

[John Ryder]

I. I'd hate to have to do it. But unless you show us what you're trying to hide, I'll have to get Ms. Beaton or Ms. O' Farrell to search you.

[Ms. Beaton]

Oh, it is nothing. Only I have been so afraid. My husband, Michael, he bring me this for protection.

[John Ryder]

A.45.

[Charlie Chan]

So it would appear.

[Ms. Beaton]

But look, monsieur, this gun, she has not been what you call fire.

[Charlie Chan]

You understand how to use this, Cecile? Me?

[Ms. Beaton]

Oui. My husband, yes.

[Charlie Chan]

Your husband taught you? You're about to say we.

[Ms. Beaton]

He was in the war. This is his.

[Charlie Chan]

He was aviator?

[Ms. Beaton]

Oh, no, monsieur. No. He would like to be. But he was sergeant in infantry and a crack shot.

[Charlie Chan]

Cecile.

[John Ryder]

But yes, Michael would say, Inspector, this.45 is fully loaded. All right. But if I know my guns, it has been fired. And not so long ago, either.

[Narrator]

Hossing and Cecile and perhaps Ireland. Could it have been Ireland or Cecile who fired the shot which misled Charlie Chan for so long? We'll have to leave it to the inspector to pursue this latest development. When you have heard your sponsor's message, Inspector Chan will be with us again.

[Ms. Beaton]

It.

[Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids]

Sam.

[Narrator]

Well, Inspector Chan, have you a parting thought for us this evening?

[Charlie Chan]

Indeed, yes, Mr. Wilson. I am thinking of Chinese proverb which says, when man is seen continuously in company of worthy persons, his name will be free from taint of scandal. But when man has reputation of consorting with persons of ill repute, protesting his innocence will avail him but little.

[Narrator]

Oh, very true that is, Inspector. Thank you and good night.

[Charlie Chan]

Thank you. The world.

[Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids]

Use of flavored tobacco by teens is a crisis. Tobacco companies use flavors like cotton candy, watermelon ice and cool mint to hook kids like me. They seem harmless, but they aren't. Addiction to nicotine sets us up for a lifetime of health problems. Organ legislators can do something about it. Passing Senate Bill 702A will keep flavored tobacco away from kids. But there are just a few short weeks left for lawmakers to act. Take action to protect kids like me@ flavorshookorgonkids.org paid for by the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids Action Fund.

[Adam Graham]

Welcome back. Charlie Chan Getting Tough Seems more like Charlie Chan getting mildly annoyed and providing some limited poor pushback and trying to get compliance while offering mild rebuke. But I guess for this portrayal of Charlie Chan, that's getting tough. Also, I love the character moments in the first episode when he's talking about his family and his life in Hawaii. And to be honest, I think that sort of warmth and dimension to his character makes him stand out from many of his brethren in the world of fictional Golden Age detectives, which often get divided into things like hard boiled or more cerebral detectives. But the vast majority of the popular detectives of the era were bachelors, and even more were childless. Even with Nick Charles, who became a father in the Thin man movies, I don't think being a father redefined him. It caused him to clean up his act a bit, so he wasn't constantly plastered as he was in the first Thin man movie. But I think with Charlie Chan being A father of 11, it's such a big part of his character and who he is, and you can see the ease at which he goes into this sort of fatherly warmth that's really typical of his interactions. To me, I think that there are a lot of people who, when they think of Charlie Chan, they focus on things like his mannerisms or the way he talks. But his general demeanor and approach as a family man ground him. And I think it's an underrated appeal that makes him stand out, which I think is a good point to bring up. As we're approaching Father's Day at the time that we're first releasing this podcast, I have to say that Romano is climbing my suspect list. He's a little too eager to get his hands on the money. And I'm dubious of his tip about Auth Singh because pretending to be reluctant and having it dragged out of him could be an attempt to give this tip quote credibility. Also, if I could talk to Romano. As someone who has had reason to study the probate process recently, I hate to break this to you, but you're not going anywhere anytime soon. Presumably, her last will made you the beneficiary, and that will speed things along, but this is going through probate, and I kind of doubt you're the only person that she owes debts to. So all of those creditors are going to have to be paid, and there's going to have to be time for them to come out of the woodwork. In addition, recall the secretary stated the bulk of her wealth is tied up, remember, in real estate, which makes estates typically more complex and requires more time to process. Now, I appreciate this was in the 1930s, so 90 years ago, but I don't think the law has changed that much. Regardless of whether he's got to testify or not, he's not going to Europe, at least not on estate money for close to a year at the earliest. Well, now it's time to thank our Patreon supporter of the day, and I want to go ahead and thank David, Patreon, supporter since March of 2024, currently supporting the podcast at the shamus level of $4 or more per month. Thanks so much for your support, David. And that will actually do it for today. If you are enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software. And please be sure to rate and review the podcast wherever you download it from. We will be back next Tuesday with another episode of Charlie Chan, but join us back here tomorrow for Broadway's My.

[Ellen Landini]

Beat, where, say, tell me about it.

[Charlie Chan]

When you heard the shot.

[Ellen Landini]

What?

[Charlie Chan]

You didn't. Oh, I didn't? Didn't what? Oh, I didn't hear a shot. What attracted me was a smell of smoke. I rushed in, a waste basket was on fire, and. Mr. Bristol. Wait a minute. What's that?

[Ellen Landini]

Hello?

[Charlie Chan]

Old phone in there. It's been doing that ever since. Receiver just dangling there. I. I wouldn't touch it.

[Ellen Landini]

Hello? Hello, Frank. What's the idea keeping me waiting? What happened?

[Charlie Chan]

You told me to.

[Ellen Landini]

Hang on. It's Eddie.

[Charlie Chan]

You're not Frank. Who are you? The police. The police? What's happened? What's happened up there? You're talking to Mr. Briscoe? Yes. My name's Eddie Cutler.

[Ellen Landini]

I called Frank for a golf day.

[Charlie Chan]

He said, excuse me, there's someone at the door. Hang on.

[Ellen Landini]

He said, where are you now, Mr. Cutler? At my place of business on Wall Street.

[Charlie Chan]

What happened? A murder. Stick around, Mr. Cutler.

[Ellen Landini]

I want to talk to you.

[Adam Graham]

I hope you'll be with us then. In the meantime, send your comments to box Thirteenreatetectives.net Follow us on Twitter at Radio Detectives and check us out on Instagram. Instagram.com Great detectives from Boise, Idaho, this is your host, Adam Graham, signing off.

[Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids]

Use of flavored tobacco by teens is a crisis. Tobacco companies use flavors like cotton candy, watermelon ice, and cool mint to hook kids like me. They seem harmless, but they aren't. Addiction to nicotine sets us up for a lifetime of health problems. Oregon legislators can do something about it. Passing Senate Bill 702A will keep flavored tobacco away from kids. But there are just a few short weeks left for lawmakers to act. Take action to protect kids like me@vors hookoregonkids.org paid for by the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids Action Fund.