Charlie Chan: Escaped Musician (EP4817)

Summary

The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio

Episode: Charlie Chan: Escaped Musician (EP4817)
Date: October 7, 2025
Host: Adam Graham

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Episode Overview

In this mystery-filled episode, Adam Graham presents an adventure from the classic radio series "Charlie Chan." The story, "Escaped Musician," centers on a young violinist, Ronnie Post, who becomes entangled in a crime involving burglary and murder. Chan’s seemingly contradictory actions – aiding a suspect’s escape while orchestrating his capture – create a layered mystery for both listeners and characters. The episode is notable for its exploration of parental devotion, police strategy, and the nuanced interplay between trust and deception.

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Key Discussion Points and Plot Breakdown

1. Setting the Scene

• [02:43] The episode opens with a classic preamble from Inspector Charlie Chan, setting a tone of wisdom and intrigue with the proverb:

  “Mistakes like weeds, will grow in any soil. Tonight we meet mistake that almost ended in murder blatantly fancy.”
  (Inspector Charlie Chan, 03:16)

• The story is set in a foggy San Francisco neighborhood, late at night, immediately establishing a sense of suspense.

2. Ronnie Post’s Predicament

• [04:33–07:27] Mrs. Vinnie Post is anxiously awaiting her son, Ronnie, unaware of his involvement in a crime. Charlie Chan and his "number one son" (Lee Chan) arrive to break troubling news: Ronnie is under suspicion for burglary and nearly involved in a murder after being shot and escaping.
• Mrs. Post exhibits a mother's unconditional love, shown in her immediate reaction to seek out Ronnie herself:

  “Strongest soldier does not fight so hard as weakest mother.”
  (Inspector Charlie Chan, 07:28)

3. Confessions and Complications

• [07:56–09:14] Mrs. Post finds Ronnie hiding in an old childhood haunt. He confesses to being manipulated by an old acquaintance, Pig Welsh, into acting as a lookout for a series of burglaries, culminating in the fatal incident.
• Ronnie reveals he was inadvertently complicit, acting under duress and guilt-ridden:

  "I was an accomplice. I couldn't get out of it. He held it over me."
  (Ronnie, 09:00)

4. Chan’s Strategic Guidance

• [09:14–12:27] Charlie Chan intervenes, instructing Ronnie and Mrs. Post to follow a complex escape route to avoid arrest, only to discreetly alert the police to their movements. Chan’s behavior seems contradictory and breeds mistrust in the Posts.
• Memorable quote emphasizing the gravity of the situation:

  “If you depart but one inch from Pop, you are lost.”
  (Inspector Charlie Chan, 12:19)

5. Misdirection and Sacrifice

• [13:24–17:28] Amid confusion and mistrust, Mrs. Post devises a plan: she disguises herself as Ronnie to draw attention away from her son. In a powerful and emotionally charged moment, she self-inflicts a wound to mimic Ronnie’s injury, displaying her willingness to risk everything for her child:

  “They want a young man with a hurt hand. They're going to have one. It's the right hand of little… There we are. A real wound. That'll fool anybody.”
  (Mrs. Vinnie Post, 17:34–17:48)

6. The Trap and Confrontation

• [18:45–21:59] As the chase continues, Mrs. Post, disguised as Ronnie, is confronted by Pig Welsh. He threatens her, realizing who she truly is. The tension peaks as Chan and his team intervene just in time, orchestrating what appears to be a car accident to apprehend Welsh.

7. Resolution & Moral Clarity

• [22:23–24:41] The truth is revealed: Ronnie’s wound, sustained by gunshot, exonerates him of the murder (he could not have stabbed the watchman). The motive for the crime emerges—a lucrative list of war veterans' names intended to be sold to scammers after WWII:

  “Pig Welsh stole names of 10,000 war veterans… Thieves and confidence men… would pay a dollar per name.”
  (Inspector Charlie Chan, 24:22–24:45)

8. Chan’s Final Wisdom

• [25:03–26:29] In true Chan fashion, he concludes with a thoughtful adage:

  "It is cleverest thing in world to be merely happy and happy to be merely clever." (Inspector Charlie Chan, 26:12)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Mother’s Determination:
  “Strongest soldier does not fight so hard as weakest mother.” (07:28, Charlie Chan)

• Sacrifice for Family:
  “That can wait, Mr. Walsh. So you're the low, rotten swine who did this to my Ronnie. You cheap, vicious crook. Why you tricking my boy like that...” (21:02, Mrs. Vinnie Post)

• Revealing the Motive:
  “Pig Welsh stole names of 10,000 war veterans… would pay a dollar per name and hire for lips.” (24:22–24:45, Charlie Chan)

• Chan’s Wisdom:
  "It is cleverest thing in world to be merely happy and happy to be merely clever." (26:12)

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Key Timestamps

• 03:16 – Chan’s opening proverb
• 04:33–07:27 – Chan informs Mrs. Post of Ronnie's predicament
• 07:56–09:14 – Ronnie's confession
• 09:14–12:27 – Chan’s escape instructions and setup
• 13:24–17:28 – Mrs. Post's disguise and self-sacrifice
• 18:45–21:59 – Confrontation and rescue
• 22:23–24:41 – Motive revealed and case wrapped up
• 25:03–26:29 – Concluding wisdom and outro

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Host Commentary (Adam Graham) Highlights

• [27:23] Adam Graham notes the unique structure of the episode, pointing out that Chan acts unpredictably, which transforms the listener’s perspective versus traditional detective stories.
• Graham humorously comments on Chan’s remark about the car being destroyed (“his comment about the car being wrecked being a blessing was hilarious”) and draws parallels to earlier episodes where the detective is intentionally enigmatic.
• Adam mentions discussion about authenticity in voice talent (the actor for Lee Chan/Number One Son, who sounds Australian).
• Acknowledges the serial’s roots in the post-WWII era and how the original motives were adapted.
• Announces nearing the conclusion of this "Charlie Chan" radio run, with only three episodes left before a new series begins.

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Listener Feedback

• Eric (YouTube): Finds it odd to hear Number One Son with a non-K Luke (original actor) and Australian accent. Adam agrees that voice casting can jar longtime fans.
• Alan: Simply comments, “Charlie Chan.” Adam thanks him for the feedback.
• Patreon thanks: Special recognition to supporter Philip for ongoing contributions.

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Summary

"Escaped Musician" offers a suspenseful, emotion-driven mystery that pivots on family bonds, ethical police work, and the risks of misjudgment. Charlie Chan’s apparent duplicity is revealed as strategic cunning, protecting both individuals and the broader public. In keeping with the series’ tone, justice prevails — not only for the crime but for the integrity and compassion of the characters involved.

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Next up: The show continues the daily mystery line-up with "Broadway’s My Beat."
Website: greatdetectives.net
Patreon: Shoutout to supporter Philip, Detective Sergeant level.

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(Summary covers episode content only. Ads, intros, and non-content segments are omitted.)

Transcript

[Sarah]

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[Announcer]

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[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

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[Announcer]

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[Doug Limu]

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[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

We save.

[Doug Limu]

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[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

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[Doug Limu]

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[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

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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 episode of Charlie Chan. But first I do want to encourage you to check out our other podcast and I'm highlighting the Old Time Radio snack [e-mail] where every week we bring you a bite sized bit of Old Time Radio goodness across a wide variety of different genres. You might tune in one day and hear a sports story and the next week it might be a comedy or a drama or an offbeat music program. You never know what will serve up, but it'll be good. Check it out. Snackwagon.net now we return to an episode of Charlie Chan that aired during the 1950-51 radio series. The episode is entitled Escape Musician.

[Announcer]

The Incomparable Charlie Chan. We proudly present the incomparable Charlie Chan in a new exciting series. Join this famous detective as he combines the wisdom of the east and the science of the west in a dramatic chapter from the Adventures of Charlie Chan.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Charlie Chan Humbly Vigil Good evening and extend warm welcome. Ancient proverb proclaims mistakes like weeds, will grow in any soil. Tonight we meet mistake that almost ended in murder blatantly fancy.

[Announcer]

Tonight'S adventure the Escaped Musicians. It is midnight in a small white house in a quack San Francisco neighborhood. Mrs. Vinnie Post, slender and youthful despite her 40 years, sits at a cottage piano and plays quietly while she watches the clock on the wall with anxious eyes.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

That's Ronnie. All right, dear. I'm Coming. Be in such a hurry. My goodness, I. Oh.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Mrs. Vinny Post?

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Yes.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

You will permit this person to intrude, please. Our Inspector Charlie Chan of police. Police at sight number one son.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Mother, I don't. Oh, come in, please.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Many times Mr. Ronnie Post. Your son, Mrs. Post?

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Yes.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Son at home?

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Why, no, he. But I really don't understand, Inspector. Why this visit? We're a musical family. We don't usually have anything to do with it.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Pardon interruption. Most urgent mission.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Where is he's? At a school on the south side giving a recital. His first violin was an amateur quartet. But I must insist on an explanation.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Inspector, this most unfortunate situation. Mrs. Post, your son not at recital tonight.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

What? But why? What happened to him?

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

What? Your son involved in serious crime?

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

No.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Burglary.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

This is ridiculous.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Burglary which culminated in murder.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

You are joking, of course.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

So sorry.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

But Roney is a musician, a violinist. He. Why, this was absurd. Burglary. Murder.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Was almost apprehended. Was shot by Arthur's watchman.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Shot? You mean he was hurt?

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

So sorry. Yes. This inept brain thought your son might have returned home because of injury.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

No, no, he's not home. He's. Ronnie hurt. Oh, I'm all mixed up. Gently, Mrs. Bust.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Gently, please. Was not aware news would come. As shock must insit you permit number one son himself.

[Announcer]

Wait.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Homecoming of son in the talent.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Ronnie hurt. No wonder he was late. I never knew.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Can you wake me, Mrs. Post?

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Why, why, yes, yes. Come into Ronnie's bedroom. I don't want him to see you when he gets here. He in here, Inspector.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Nonsense.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

I'll leave you in here. You just got to give me a moment alone. I've got to pull myself together. This has been such a shock. I say, Pop.

[Announcer]

Wait.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Lie down, sir.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

It's locked.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

She's locked us in. Very good exercise ears, please.

[Announcer]

Listen.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

The front door's opening. She's going out.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Yes. Brave woman. Has locked up police and rushed to aid of injured Sam. You expected this, Pop? Yes. Was the reason for brutal disclosure of news. Urge him to locate Mr. Ronnie Post at once. Never knows where sun would hide in time of trouble. Would not tell us, but will lead us to vicinity. Apply skeleton key and lock.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Right.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Truly, it is written, strongest soldier does not fight so hard as weakest mother.

[Announcer]

Vinnie Post runs wildly down a foggy street, through a back alley and then across a vacant lot filled with rusting tins and garbage. She gathers her shawl closer around her shoulders and approaches a small shack hidden in a corner.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Ronnie. Ronnie, dear Mother. Ronnie, darling. It's Mother. Ronnie.

[Announcer]

Mama.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

I know he'll be here. You always came here to hide when you were a boy. Oh, darling. Darling.

[Announcer]

Gee, Mama, he's in here. My hands hurt.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Your hands? Well, let me see.

[Announcer]

Yes, I. I've got a handkerchief rounded up.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Well, take it off. I'll use my slip. You've got to tell me what happened. What happened, Ronnie, in heaven's name.

[Announcer]

All night I've been lying to you about playing with that quartet. You remember Pete Walsh? Fellow I used to know. Quick Robin. Well, that money I brought home. Pete gave it to me. He tricked me into a racket.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Money?

[Announcer]

Honest. Last year he said he'd give me $30 to stand on a street corner and play the violin at night.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Don't lie to me. Honest.

[Announcer]

I'm honest. He said it was a joke. And then I found out he was using me for a lookout. While he was robbing an office inside the building.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Oh, Ron.

[Announcer]

I was an accomplice. I couldn't get out of it. He held it over me. He made me work like that seven times. And this happened. He must have got caught. There was a fight, and I got mixed up in the night. Oh, what am I going to do?

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

You will follow instructions of this person, Mr. Post.

[Announcer]

Who's that?

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

This is Charlie Chan of police. Forgive trick. Mrs. Post. Excuse thy urgent case, but. But thy and Mr. Post's attention. Desperate situation demands honest answers. You will look out for Pig Welsh?

[Announcer]

Yes.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Welsh burglary safe of publishing of it?

[Announcer]

Yes.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Caught by watchman?

[Announcer]

Yes.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

You insisted him in fight?

[Announcer]

Yes.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Who stabbed Watchman to death?

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

I don't know, Ronnie.

[Announcer]

I wish I did. As my witness. I don't know. I'm mixed up.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

I couldn't. What did Walsh want from safe?

[Announcer]

A list of names.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

That sound of what he said.

[Announcer]

A list of things. I thought he was lying.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Mr. Post, you are involved in burglary and murder. Will it be possible for this person to stay here?

[Announcer]

What do I have to do?

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Escape?

[Announcer]

You move from here.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Must leave San Francisco at once.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

But that's ridiculous. He can't do that.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

It is possible.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

But you don't understand. My son's a violinist. His hand is hurt.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Every mouth injury to hand.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

He's got to get to a doctor. If anything should happen to his hand.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

So sorry. Mrs. Post. Your son's life more important than career.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Yes. Yes, of course it is.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

This person can save life. Kindly make sure.

[Announcer]

Wait a minute. I don't understand. Why.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Why nostril you dare with useless questions. Will you follow instructions? Mr. Post.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Yes. Yes and no.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Very good. You must escape, mister. This person and son will assist you. We will leave this crumbling abode and proceed immediately to trolley line.

[Announcer]

To trolley line? But why?

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

No questions, please. You will ride to end of line and dismount.

[Announcer]

Yes, yes, I've got that.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

You will take Prince Sherry and cross to Alameda.

[Announcer]

Not for that.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

You will proceed on foot along Alameda Highway Huey.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

On foot? But the boy is hurt.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

You will proceed on foot, As I say, 10 miles east of Alameda. This person will meet you and provide you with refuge from official police until life can be saved.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

But why? Why are you doing this? I didn't think the police would ever.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Have I not said. No questions, please. This first person has purpose in assisting escape of Mr. Post. Shame revealed at later date. One warning, Mr. Post. Your life depends on precise accomplishment of instructions. If you depart but one inch from Pop, you are lost. Now go. Hello? Hello? This inauspicious voice of Inspector Chang speaking from payphone. Have instructions for you flat and ready. Must be followed immediately.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

What are you gonna do, Pop?

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Silence, Sergeant Brady. Regarding burglary and murder now under investigation. Crime involving theft of subscription list of war veterans magazine.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Pop, do you mean to say they committed murder? Post of Maine.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

This person interrupted thy Miserable son, Sergeant Brady, but continues with fortitude. Have discovered Mr. Ronnie Post, probable killer of watchmen now trying to leave San Francisco.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Ha.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Have discovered the routes taken to Bay Ferry, then to Alameda and along highway due east.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Pop, are you crazy?

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Close vacant mouth, please. Sergeant Brady. This person desires police and radio warnings broadcast to all persons along that route. Kindly use description of Mr. Post already provided. Cast coat, wounded right hand, etc.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

You can't do this, Pop. You.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Many thanks, Pop.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

You can't double cross Runny Post like this. You can't do it. You're the most honest man the police. You.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Silence. Father and son have urgent mission to perform. Must drive at once to end of trolley line to meet Mr. Ronnie Post.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

To double cross him and turn him in.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Now to assist in escape of young men as planned.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Hey, hey. Hey, Ronnie.

[Announcer]

Who's that?

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Lee Chan in this doorway? Get him quick.

[Announcer]

The men on the trolley start looking at me suspicious and we got to the end of the line. They started for me. I. I think they knew who I was. I. I don't know.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

I mattered away.

[Announcer]

I started to run.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Think they're after you?

[Announcer]

Yeah.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Maybe it's a good thing Pops out of me here to watch out for you.

[Announcer]

Now, listen, I've got to get you.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

To the Ferry, I think. Wait a minute.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

You're right.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Some people running down this way. Back in the doorway. I'll travel for you. Pretend we're yarning. Well, anyway, you see that I turned around with my.

[Announcer]

I swear it was that fellow they're looking for.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

I still don't know him.

[Announcer]

Didn't you see the bandage on his hand? And he looks sort of guilty either.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Way he ran off.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Hey, Acceptance. Hey, son. Yeah?

[Announcer]

Did you see a fellow run post with a bandaged hand?

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Oh, him. Yeah. What was the matter with him?

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Scared us up.

[Announcer]

Oh, never mind that. Which way did he go?

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Oh, to the left down the street.

[Announcer]

Yeah, boys, to the left down the street. Come on, let's go.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Light, Bunny. Come on. We go right to the ferry. I'll get you out the way, Pop once. But I wish I knew why he's doing this the hard way.

[Announcer]

In a few moments, Charlie Chan continues the case of the escape Division. But meanwhile, here is your announcer. And now back to the incomparable Charlie Chan. Ronnie Post, a young man in Bartle killings is for some reason being assisted in making his escape by Charlie Chan. Now aboard the Bay Ferry on San Francisco Harbor.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Ronnie. Ronnie.

[Announcer]

What are you doing here?

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

I had to come, Frank. I couldn't let you go on alone.

[Announcer]

Well, he shouldn't have done it, Ronnie.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Shouldn't I? You don't want to fly.

[Announcer]

How'd you get on the ferry?

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

I waited at the dock for you. Then I followed you up to the stage. Oh, dear. Wait a minute.

[Announcer]

People are watching us. Come down here now. That's better. No one can see us here.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Listen, dear, we're in terrible trouble, and I know it. I don't understand how I could have.

[Announcer]

Patent of crime. How could who have done what?

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

He looked so honest, so sincere and.

[Announcer]

What are you talking about?

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Inspector Chen. He's let us down. Mommy. He was lying all the time. What did he do? He's leaving you to escape.

[Announcer]

Good.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Who made you run away?

[Announcer]

Not mine. I don't believe it's true.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Why?

[Announcer]

Why?

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

He wants to prove you guilty of that murder.

[Announcer]

I'm not by my coat.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

I've know that feeling. Know you're innocent. But that man. Why, he's got every radio station broadcast in the building.

[Announcer]

Are you sure about it, ma'?

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Am? I heard it. They're telling everyone exactly where you're going. Oh, that's why I came here. They're just waiting to pounce on you, Honor.

[Announcer]

Oh, Ma, how do I ever get mixed up in this house?

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Now, listen, dear, I've got A plan.

[Announcer]

No, Mom. Look, I don't want to drag you into this. Do back with leave me here to the fight without allowance.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

I will not.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

We're going to fool that man. You'll get away. After all.

[Announcer]

What are we going to do? I know where I'm going, but isn't a chance for me.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Yes, there is. First you're going to give me your hat and coat.

[Announcer]

No, Mama, please.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Please don't do anything. It's all right. I know what I'm doing. I've brought a pair of slacks with me. I look enough like you with a dart full of them.

[Announcer]

You're going to change anything you can. It's a big healing.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Exactly. While I walk into Chan's trap, you're going to turn around and go back.

[Announcer]

It's not worth luck.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

It'll give you time to get away for good.

[Announcer]

No. Can't let you do it. I won't let you do it.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

You can't stop me, dear. Give me a pen knife.

[Announcer]

Why do you want my knife?

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Give it to me. They want a young man with a hurt hand. They're going to have one. It's the right hand of little.

[Announcer]

What are you doing? Stop it.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Too late. Love is done.

[Announcer]

Now, for the love of.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

There we are. A real wound. That'll fool anybody. I've got a handkerchief for it. Please don't look at me like that. It doesn't hurt the booty. It didn't hurt at all. All right, Pop. Mission completed. I put Ronnie on the ferry.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Very good. Vessel now returning to dock from Alameda. We'll board Sam and follow young man.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Pop, what are you up to? First he's mixed up on a murder. Then you hold him escape even though he doesn't know if he's the killer. Then you double cross him. Then I help him.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Then listen now, doc. Then we'll bring car on board. Explanations later.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Just tell me what you're after.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

List of names stolen from Face.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Also the levels. See, Pop, look. That's Ronnie posting up the ferry. He came back.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Mr. Post. Mr. Post.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Quickly.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Done.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Just a minute, Mr. Post. Here it go.

[Announcer]

Michael.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Why did you fail to obey instructions? Please.

[Announcer]

You double crossed me. I heard the radio broadcast.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Who gave information, please?

[Announcer]

No one. I heard the radio. Where, please?

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

You have never been near radio all night. Who told you of broadcast?

[Announcer]

My mother.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Your lines were observed during entire flight by son himself. Did not speak to mother.

[Announcer]

She was on the ferry waiting for me.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Where is she now, please? Where are hat and cap? Ah, so your mother took your place. Huh? That is why you returned. Your mother has substituted for you. Ay, this most alarming news.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

What's the matter now, Pop?

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Why did you and Mother fail in trust of Charlie Chan?

[Announcer]

Mr. Post, I don't understand.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

You are number one in the seal. Come. Just take ferry and follow mother at once. Foolish one, you have permitted Mother to walk into traps of death.

[Announcer]

Hey. Hey, Ronnie, that's you and miss. This is me, Big Wash. Come over to the cockhead.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Come on.

[Announcer]

We're all over the highway looking for you. Lucky I picked you up, huh? You're in a bad jam, Ruth.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Hey, that's right, Mr. Walsh. It isn't Ronnie.

[Announcer]

Don't move, lady. Just stay right here. I'm coming out. Who are you?

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Ronnie's mother.

[Announcer]

He's old, lady.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Eh?

[Announcer]

What's the idea?

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

That can wait, Mr. Walsh. So you're the low, rotten swine who did this to my Ronnie. You cheap, vicious crook. Why you tricking my boy like that? Tricking him into turning thief, using him like that. A wonderful musician with everything in life before him. Turning him into a thief and a killer. You rotten hound.

[Announcer]

So the kid talked about the job tonight, eh? I thought he might. That's why I was looking for him. I guess I'll have to keep on looking after I take care of you.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Let me go.

[Announcer]

Come on, lady. We're taking a little walk into the field and do a little business.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Let go of me. Let go.

[Announcer]

So you double for the kid, eh? Hat and coat and even the Danish you knew I was after, eh? You knew I'd have to keep him quiet.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

What?

[Announcer]

So it looks as if I'll have to shut you up first, eh? You know too much. And you talk too much, too. A kid gets it from you. That is far enough. Turn around.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

You're going to kill me.

[Announcer]

What do you think?

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Turn around, you rotten beast. You're the kind of car that shoots in the back, aren't you? You can't face eyes. You have to hide while you murder.

[Announcer]

You all right in the face. Now, lady, just wait till the car goes by. You have one minute.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Whippers.

[Announcer]

Hey, they crashed into my car. They cracked me up.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Hey, you.

[Announcer]

What's the big idea? Don't you know how to keep a car on the road? I've got a good mind of.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

To do what, mister?

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Well, who's that?

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

This has inspected Charlie Chan. Gently, mister. Welcome. Do not attempt to use guns. Number one son stands on other side with large automatic covering you.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

It's a.45 watch.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

They taught me how to use One of the army hastily arranged automobile accident. Gave son himself opportunity to enter this field and lead to Mr. Welch, your former accomplice. Mr. Post drove car Ronnie? Yes. Bravely risked life to protect life of mother. Most unfortunate, Mr. Welsh. You are surrounded with witnesses who will convict you of burglary and murder. It is well written. Truth runs many races, but has never yet lost first prize. Keep cheer in heart, Mrs. Post. This large person makes small promise. Your son will not pay too greatly for unfortunate cooperation with Mr. Pigwell.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Thank you, Inspector.

[Announcer]

I should have trusted you. I. I'm sorry I didn't.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Oh, yes. His entire estate plan to bring Mr. Ross into grass. Knew he would attempt your death to silence only witness to murder.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

So that's why you had the whole escape route broadcast.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Please, Vasli.

[Announcer]

What made you so sure I didn't commit the murderous Victor? I wasn't even sure myself.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

By wound in right hand. Was shot by watchman. Obviously he was alive at that moment. Then after shot was stabbed to death. How could you stab him with injured hands?

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Holy smoke. That's right. But there's one thing I don't understand, Inspector.

[Announcer]

Chance.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

That dreadful burglary and murder just for a list of names.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Mrs. Pig Welsh stole names of 10,000 war veterans with addresses of fame men about to receive large amounts of money as war donors. Thieves and confident men anxious to buy such names for future victims would pay dollar per name and hire for lips.

[Announcer]

No kidding, Inspector Chan. $10,000?

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Precisely.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

So that's why you worked so hard a pop to locate Pigwell from that stolen list before you had a chance to sell it.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Yes. This person's anxious to protect valiant settlements.

[Mrs. Vinnie Post]

Well, maybe you did protect them, Pop. But I won that when you didn't help. I had to sacrifice my car in that crash. It won't be fixed for a month.

[Inspector Charlie Chan]

Ah. To this person, demolition of Samskara is not sacrifice but benefit. And it is truly written. Benefits like flowers, please most when they are thankful. Before this person has further words with you, here is an answer. With words of wisdom. Before saying good night, Charlotte, I'd like to bring to your attention ancient words of wisdom. It is cleverest thing in world to be merely happy and happy to be merely clever. Good night. Thank you.

[Announcer]

Be sure to join us next week at this same time for the Adventures of Charlie Chan, based on the famous character created by Earl the Bigger.

[Doug Limu]

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[Doug Limu]

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[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

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[Adam Graham]

Welcome back. Charlie Chan was absolutely brutal to Lee, AKA Number one Son in this episode. His comment about the car being wrecked being a blessing was hilarious. I thought this was overall an interesting episode and it's kind of in the same vein as the first episode of this we played the Telltale of Hands in that it's a story where the detective behaves out of character or is in some way unpredictable. And because he is not our viewpoint character, we don't quite know what's going on, which gives it a different sort of mystery feel. Now this is an episode that was obviously aired in the States in the aftermath of World War II, probably 1945, maybe early 1946, but they went ahead and took the motive and imported it into this episode that aired in 1950 or 51. It does seem like you could have changed the details to something else because they certainly weren't handing out World War II war bonuses in 1950. I would also note that we only have three more episodes of this series remaining and then we will be getting into the big story coming up in four weeks. Well, now we turn to listener comments and feedback and we start out on YouTube where we have a couple comments regarding the Tell Tale Hands. Eric writes, my biggest issue with these Charlie Chan series is that it's strange to me to hear a number one son who is not K Luke, especially when their American accent drops a little and they sound Australian. I can definitely appreciate where you're coming from because it can be a little bit disconcerting when you've got a character who you are used to one actor as the voice of that character and then you have an unknown Australian actor in that role. Some series it doesn't matter that much, but depending on the role definitely can be an issue. Particularly probably one of the ones that throws me is Joe Friday not played by Jack Webb. And then a comment from Alan Love, Charlie Chan. Well, thanks so much. Well, now it is time to thank our Patreon Support Supporter of the day and I want to thank Philip patreon Supporter since December 2019, currently supporting the podcast at the Detective Sergeant level of $7.14 per month. Thanks so much for your support, Philip. And that will do it for today. If you're enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software. And be sure to rate and review the podcast wherever you download it from. We'll be back next Tuesday with another episode of Charlie Chan, but join us back here tomorrow for Broadway's My Beat.

[Thomas Hart]

Where Got here fast, Danny.

[Announcer]

I was shown the way. Who is he? Muggleman.

[Thomas Hart]

His wallet says he's Thomas Hart. Social Security card, YMCA membership. It all says he was Thomas Hart. These people know him? They call him by name. You don't answer for 20 minutes now. I'd say.

[Announcer]

Any of them see it happen?

[Thomas Hart]

No. I asked around. They were all busy with shop talk, with wife and kid talk, with union talk. First thing they noticed was Sinclair Stylecraft's new sample spring line was spilled in the gutter. They kept the cabs and trucks from running over the dressers. Sinclair what Sinclair Stylecraft see on address labels?

[Announcer]

Huh?

[Thomas Hart]

A dress manufacturing place up the street. He worked there. They all told me that, and I didn't even ask.

[Adam Graham]

I hope you'll be with us then. In the meantime, send your comments to box Thirteenreatdetectives.net Follow us on Twitter at radiodetectives and check us out on Instagram instagram.com greatdetective Actives from Boise, Idaho, this is your host, Adam Graham, signing off.

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