Charlie Chan: The Landini Murder Case: The Chinese Suspect/The Barking Dog (EP 7 and 8)(EP4666)

Summary

Summary of "Charlie Chan: The Landini Murder Case: The Chinese Suspect/The Barking Dog" (EP4666)

Released on April 1, 2025, as part of Season Fifteen of "The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio," hosted by Adam Graham of Radio Detective Podcasts.

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Overview

In Episode 4666 of "The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio," Adam Graham delves into "Charlie Chan: The Landini Murder Case," specifically covering Episodes 7 and 8, titled "The Chinese Suspect" and "The Barking Dog." This installment continues the intricate mystery surrounding the murder of Ellen Landini, exploring the intricate dynamics between the characters and presenting a web of suspects with concealed motives.

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Introduction by Host

Adam Graham opens the episode with a rich background on the iconic detective character, Charlie Chan. He highlights Chan's origins from Earl Durr Biggers' 1925 novel "The House Without a Key" and his significant presence in various media, including 44 American films between 1931 and 1949, a newspaper strip, comic books, and television series. Graham reminisces about the personal connection to Charlie Chan, sharing memories of his father enjoying Chan marathons on AMC.

Adam Graham [01:28]: "The Honolulu police inspector was created in 1925 by author Earl Durr Biggers... Chan's popularity in other media also saw the character making his way onto radio."

He sets the stage for the episode by explaining the historical context of the radio series and the challenge posed by missing episodes, specifically the first six of the "Landini Murder Case."

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Plot Synopsis

"The Shiny Suspect/The Barking Dog" unfolds in the residence of millionaire Dudley Ward in Pine View. Charlie Chan is summoned to investigate the sudden murder of Ellen Landini upon her arrival. The primary suspects include Landini's ex-husbands—Ryder Romano, Dr. Swan, and Ward himself—as well as Hugh Beaton and his sister Leslie.

As the plot progresses, Chan scrutinizes the behavior of the household members. A pivotal moment occurs when Chan observes Ah Singh, the servant, acting suspiciously in the snowy landscape outside the house. Through meticulous questioning and observation, Chan deduces inconsistencies in Singh's alibi and behavior.

Charlie Chan [10:59]: "We forget I sing that we are trying to solve a murder... I must admit to find who killed Madame Landini." [10:07]

Chan's interrogation reveals Ah Singh's evasiveness, leading Chan to suspect his involvement. The discovery of an overturned vanity bench becomes a critical clue, prompting Chan to challenge the initial assumptions about the crime scene.

Charlie Chan [17:09]: "There are three things, Sheriff, I want to determine before we consider this day's work finish. And these are fingerprints?" [11:58]

The narrative takes a tense turn when Sheriff Holt is attacked, further complicating the investigation. The focus then shifts to a mysterious shot heard earlier, revealed not to be the fatal one, thereby expanding the list of potential culprits.

Charlie Chan [33:46]: "The shot we heard was not the shot which killed Landini." [33:57]

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Key Interactions and Clues

1. Suspicious Behavior of Ah Singh:

   • Chan notices inconsistencies in Singh’s statements and actions, raising doubts about his innocence.
   • Singh’s evasiveness during questioning is highlighted, with Chan observing:

     Charlie Chan [15:34]: "Slow? Yes. He who moves slowly has ample time to read signpost." [15:03]

2. Overturned Vanity Bench:

   • The overturned bench in the study serves as a physical clue, challenging the initial assumption that it resulted from a startled reaction to the shot.
   • Chan's analytical approach is evident when he states:

     Charlie Chan [17:13]: "Yes, naturally, both of us thought so. Naturally. Naturally." [17:13]

3. The Mysterious Shot:

   • The revelation that the heard shot was not the fatal one shifts the investigative focus, suggesting premeditation or multiple assailants.
   • Chan articulates the complexity of the case:

     Charlie Chan [33:46]: "The shot we heard was not the shot which killed Landini." [33:46]

4. The Role of the Dog, Trouble:

   • Chan introduces the dog, Trouble, as an instinctive witness whose behavior provides subtle clues about the events.
   • He muses on the dog's behavior:

     Charlie Chan [35:03]: "Dumb animals have great gifts of nature. Instinctively, they know their friend." [35:03]

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Host's Analysis and Insights

Adam Graham provides insightful commentary throughout the episode, emphasizing the authentic 1930s radio drama feel achieved through voice acting and narrative style.

Adam Graham [16:11]: "He just really sounds like he stepped out of a 30s movie..." [16:11]

Graham reflects on the portrayal of authority figures, noting Sheriff Holt's classic 1930s demeanor:

Adam Graham [24:37]: "I also felt that this really had a 1930s movie feel, and that was really helped by the sheriff's voice." [24:37]

He appreciates the complexity introduced by the plot twist, where the apparent resolution dissolves, reinstating the mystery and setting the stage for future episodes.

Adam Graham [36:11]: "The big theory the killer wanted us to believe is essentially smashed at the end of episode eight, sending the case back to square one." [36:11]

Graham also highlights the inclusion of Don Wilson as Mr. Wilson, a nod to classic radio announcers, enhancing the authenticity of the production.

Adam Graham [24:25]: "If you did not recognize the voice of the announcer, the Mr. Wilson that inspector Chan references is in fact Don Wilson, who is probably best known for being the announcer for the Jack Benny radio program." [24:25]

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Conclusion

Episode 4666 masterfully continues the "Landini Murder Case" by intertwining intricate character interactions, subtle clues, and classic detective work reminiscent of the Golden Age of Radio. Adam Graham's thoughtful analysis enriches the listening experience, providing both entertainment and historical context. The unresolved complexities and introduction of new twists ensure that listeners remain engaged and eager for subsequent episodes.

Adam Graham [36:11]: "This is very much like in the old days. If you tuned into a mystery movie 20 minutes in, you're gonna catch it up." [36:11]

As the investigation unfolds, Graham adeptly balances storytelling with critical insights, honoring the legacy of Charlie Chan while delivering a compelling modern podcast experience.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Adam Graham: "The Honolulu police inspector was created in 1925 by author Earl Durr Biggers..." [01:28]
• Charlie Chan: "We forget I sing that we are trying to solve a murder..." [10:07]
• Adam Graham: "He just really sounds like he stepped out of a 30s movie..." [16:11]
• Charlie Chan: "The shot we heard was not the shot which killed Landini." [33:46]
• Adam Graham: "This is very much like in the old days..." [36:11]

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For those interested in classic detective stories and riveting mystery narratives, Episode 4666 of "The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio" offers a captivating continuation of the Charlie Chan saga, enhanced by Adam Graham's expert hosting.

Transcript

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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 will begin our journey through the circulating episodes of Charlie Chan. But first, I do want to encourage you, if you are enjoying the podcast, to follow us using your favorite podcast software. And I want to encourage you to check out our other podcast, including the video companion to this podcast, Public domain video theater videotheater.greatdetectives.net you can also find us on YouTube and now on Spotify. Twice a month we post a public domain television show. Right now we're alternating between Mr. And Mrs. North and Dragnet and you can find all of our podcasts at our [e-mail] now we're going to talk about Charlie Chan. The Honolulu police inspector was created in 1925 by author Earl Durr Biggers in his novel the House Without a Key. He was inspired by real life Hawaiian detective Changing Apana and was written as a benevolent hero and a counter to the more sinister Asian characters such as Fu Manchu. The character was massively popular, particularly in the second quarter of the 20th century. While only six novels were written before Biggers passed away in 1933, there were 44 Charlie Chan movies released between 1931 and 1949. And that's just the American films. The character also starred in a newspaper strip as well as in several comic book features and also still has a following to this day. There was a TV series starring Jake Harold Nash as Charlie Chan in the mid to late 50s and a Charlie Chan animated series released in the 70s with Key Luke, who played the number one son in so many movies voicing Charlie Chan. There was also a TV movie and a not particularly well received revival of Charlie chan films in 1981 starring Peter Ustinov. I remember that the original films were favorites of my dad when I was growing up. I remember him watching the Charlie Chan marathon on amc, which actually stands for American Movie Classics. And believe it or not, there was a time when AMC actually played classic American movies rather than zombie TV shows. My memory of this officially makes me old, but of course, with Charlie Chan's popularity in other media, the character also made his way on to radio. The first actor to play Charlie Chan was Walter Connolly. And according to the best information I can find, Connolly played Chan for six months in a series that launched in 1932 over NBC. All the episodes of that series are lost and it was self contained half hour episodes. Charlie Chan would return to radio in the fall of 1935 and really capture what was the spirit of the 1930s which was serialized radio with a 15 minute serialized episodes each week. Now I do have conflicting information as to whether this particular series was aired over Mutual or was syndicated. Although it should be said that in 1935 a lot of the mutual network associations were a bit looser. So you can imagine that this series ended up playing on a lot of Mutual stations. Now we have a really interesting, interesting situation with a mystery that is told in more than 30 parts. However, the first six 15 minute installments are missing. However, I think that by the nature of the way that these stories are told and the fact that there's a lot of recapping, we should be able to get caught up on this. These episodes are in remarkably good shape for the era and I'm looking forward to a pretty involved mystery and a bit of a different experience. These episodes aired sometime during the run of the series between 1935 and 1938. I wish I could be more exact. It'll be episodes seven and eight of the Landini murder case and the episodes are called the Shiny Suspect and a Barking Dog.

[Narrator]

The most delightfully fascinating character in the realms of mystery, Charlie Chan. Charlie Chan had been invited to Pine View by Dudley Ward to assist the millionaire in locating a son whom Ward had reason to believe had been born to Landini following her divorce from Ward. Inspector Chan finds an amazing gathering. Landini herself, Ryder Romano, Dr. Swan and Ward, all at various times having been married to Landini. The Honolulu detective finds also Hugh Beaton and his sister Leslie. And while Landini's plane is landing at Ward's landing field, a shot rings Out. And Landini is found murdered. Sheriff Holt arrives and after questioning the group orders everyone to remain in the house. Charlie Chan retires to his room. He stands looking out the window at the snow covered landscape. When suddenly he sees a figure leave the house. Swiftly but silently, Chan makes his way downstairs. A front door opens to his touch. He watches the figure disappear behind the shrubbery and running silently on the snow. He skirts the bushes, spreads wide his arms and catching the figure, stares down into the wrinkled face of. Ah.

[Charlie Chan]

Singh.

[Ah Singh]

What's Marty you I single looking to see automobile house all properly closed up. Not too much work in this place. Knocking door. Knock and door.

[Sheriff Holt]

Are you Inspector Chan?

[Charlie Chan]

Yes, Sheriff, it is. I'm at present busily engaged in questioning. Asking.

[Sheriff Holt]

I was saying. Eh. What are you doing out after I warned you not to leave the house?

[Ah Singh]

Suppose I'm not going to leave a house. No can eat, no can I sleep, no can I do nothing. Every night more than a frothy year sing. He leave em house. Go look em see everything all lock em up. Now you. You all assemble. Boy speak to me. No can do. Suppose you ask thing he speak to you. Why you no go bed sleep night. Another man, huh?

[Charlie Chan]

We forget I sing that we are trying to solve a murder. Trying with little success, I must admit to find who killed Madame Landini. Oh, yeah, yeah, yeah. Me forget the missy's dead. Yeah. Too bad. While believing that human brain functions more perfectly in cool climate, I find present degree of cold has numbing effects. Can we not continue this discussion inside house?

[Sheriff Holt]

A good suggestion, Inspector. Come along. A sing or me go look.

[Ah Singh]

I see automobile housey or lock em up.

[Charlie Chan]

You have the keys, Singh?

[Ah Singh]

Oh yeah, plenty key got.

[Charlie Chan]

We shall accompany you. I think you'd like a catch em call.

[Ah Singh]

Oh, I plead the snow nissy place.

[Charlie Chan]

We shall accompany you. You lead way, please.

[Sheriff Holt]

You have an idea?

[Charlie Chan]

No. But after turmoil of evening, such a thing as seeing that garage is locked seems insignificant. Trifle. Habits of lifetime, good or bad, are difficult to break. The wolf may lose his teeth, but his thoughts remain the same.

[Sheriff Holt]

Then you don't have any hopes of learning anything from our scene?

[Charlie Chan]

Who know? Even the blind pig finds an acorn once in a while.

[Ah Singh]

Automobile house. You all fix them tight. Can go inside house now.

[Charlie Chan]

Very good. I sing. We go to study.

[Ah Singh]

Me go to study.

[Charlie Chan]

Yes, I sing.

[Ah Singh]

May go to bed on a what? So, Mario? I sing. Get up.

[Charlie Chan]

4:00.

[Ah Singh]

Maybe 3:00. Morning. Now you speak a nice time. Go study.

[Charlie Chan]

That is a more comfortable place. In which to discuss matters of importance standing out here in the snow. Please lead the way to the study. All right.

[Ah Singh]

We go on a back stair.

[Leslie Beaton]

More.

[Ah Singh]

Quicker. So much work in this place. So much work.

[Charlie Chan]

There are three things, Sheriff, I want to determine before we consider this day's work finish. And these are fingerprints?

[Sheriff Holt]

Yes.

[Charlie Chan]

Time element.

[Sheriff Holt]

Which time element?

[Charlie Chan]

I shall explain later. I see we're at the back entrance.

[Ah Singh]

Let me go first and switch em on the light.

[Charlie Chan]

One moment, if you please. AH Singh. These are the back stairs to which Cecile referred when she said that she had passed Mr. Ward.

[Ah Singh]

Uh, yes, Mr. Policeman. These are the same stairs.

[Charlie Chan]

And you did not have to come down these stairs to fetch the blanket for Madame Landini's dog Trouble? No.

[Ah Singh]

No blanket. He stayed stopped. Not a bedroom.

[Charlie Chan]

Then you did not see Cecile.

[Ah Singh]

Oh, come on in. And this is number three. Time you ask me all the same question. I sing, I tell you all the same as before. No see, Cecil.

[Charlie Chan]

All right. You may go to bed now. Good night, and thank you so much.

[Ah Singh]

Good night.

[Sheriff Holt]

You're going into the study?

[Charlie Chan]

Yes.

[Sheriff Holt]

Well, you didn't seem to get much information from Marcing.

[Charlie Chan]

No, nothing. Except confirmation.

[Sheriff Holt]

Confirmation?

[Charlie Chan]

Yes, that AH Singh is lying.

[Sheriff Holt]

Oh, what do you mean?

[Charlie Chan]

According to AH Singh, Madame Landini sent him for the blanket before the plane landed.

[Sheriff Holt]

Yes, that's true.

[Charlie Chan]

And you remember that AH Singh came into the room with the blanket. While we were all standing around looking at Landini's body.

[Sheriff Holt]

Yes, I see. You mean it took our Singh a long time to find the blankets.

[Charlie Chan]

Precisely. An extraordinary long time to find that.

[Sheriff Holt]

But shucks, Mr. Chan. I've known our Singh since I was old enough to know anyone. He never killed Landini. I'll admit he's kind of evasive, but that's his way.

[Ah Singh]

He's.

[Sheriff Holt]

Well, he's been more of a boss around here than Mr. Ward.

[Charlie Chan]

What one might call a privileged servant.

[Sheriff Holt]

That's it. I am surprised at one thing. That. Well, he didn't open his heart up as much as I thought he would, being, well, him and you.

[Charlie Chan]

You mean because we are both Chinese? Yes, my friend. The fishes, though deep in the water, may be hooked. The birds, though high in the air, may be shot. Man's heart only is out of our reach.

[Sheriff Holt]

What are you doing there?

[Charlie Chan]

I've been examining lid of yellow on red bark and lid of red on yellow box. Examining same for fingerprints. Yes. We found no fingerprints. They've been wiped clean. Come. We examined doorknob on door leading to adjoining room. Through which murderer must have entered.

[Sheriff Holt]

Yes, But Inspector, lots of people may have used that door.

[Charlie Chan]

True, but only murderer would lock same behind him or her.

[Sheriff Holt]

Well, there ought to be enough fingerprints on that doorknob for any police identification bureau.

[Charlie Chan]

A little more lamp black applied thusly. And what is it? There are no prints.

[Sheriff Holt]

But there should be.

[Charlie Chan]

Alas, too many people read detective stories nowadays. Everybody have fingerprint complex. No pleasure of tracking down criminal by means of fingerprints in this case is denied. A what are you thinking? You stand in attitude of deep meditation.

[Sheriff Holt]

Know me thinking of a Singh. I sort of hate to admit it but you know he's the only one who doesn't have an alibi.

[Charlie Chan]

Like you, I have extreme distaste for admitting it. But must confess the same thought has been recurring with regularity of ticking. Of what?

[Sheriff Holt]

Just the same, I'd go kind of slow. I know it's against your number one rule but I can't think that Aar Singh is guilty.

[Charlie Chan]

Slow? Yes. He who moves slowly has ample time to read signpost. We will pay due attention to signposts.

[Sheriff Holt]

Meaning that you won't arrest him? I'll sing.

[Charlie Chan]

I mean no, not immediately. He will be patient and remember that in due time the mulberry leaf becomes silk.

[Sheriff Holt]

Waiting for the mulberry leaf to become silk means waiting for our Singh to say something proving his guilt. I think we'll have a long wait.

[Charlie Chan]

While admitting that alibi for our sin is lacking, I also am reminded that motive of sufficient importance is equally lacking. While I am detective, I should feel guilty of indefinable something at having to place under arrest one of my own countrymen. Especially one who has served faithfully and well a gentleman like Mr. Ward and. And.

[Sheriff Holt]

What's wrong, Inspector? What are you staring at?

[Charlie Chan]

I'm staring at overturned vanity bench in the adjoining room. Yes, we are guilty, both of us. Guilty of carelessness. Before, when we searched this room in which Ms. Beaton arranged her hair and powdered her nose, what did you think of overturned vanity bench?

[Sheriff Holt]

I naturally thought that Ms. Beaton had upset it when she jumped up and she heard the shock.

[Charlie Chan]

Yes, naturally, both of us thought so. Naturally. Naturally. As opposed to scientifically? Think, think, Mr. Sheriff. And by not being humorous and deadly serious, were you to sit at dressing table arranging hair, which way would you face?

[Sheriff Holt]

Why, toward the mirror.

[Charlie Chan]

And jumping in hurry at terrifying sound of shot vanity banks would land there.

[Sheriff Holt]

No, I see now. It wouldn't. It would lie the other way. Oh, but even so, is that important?

[Charlie Chan]

We are agreed that murderer gained access to study through balcony door. Yes. And Undoubtedly. Murderer entered room and dark.

[Sheriff Holt]

I'm with you.

[Charlie Chan]

And in crossing room and dark. Murderer tripped over bench. Maybe tomorrow. Somebody have pretty sore knee.

[Sheriff Holt]

I hope so. Even if infection sets in, it'll be all right with me. Listen, I thought I heard something a.

[Charlie Chan]

Moment ago in the hallway. Somebody hurt.

[Ah Singh]

Knock and go. No, no can do.

[Charlie Chan]

What has happened here?

[Sheriff Holt]

He's been struck down, beaten.

[Charlie Chan]

Ah Singh. Who has done this thing to you? Who attacked you?

[Ah Singh]

No, no can serve. No, no can't see.

[Charlie Chan]

Sit down. Live sheriff doing it.

[Sheriff Holt]

Inspector.

[Charlie Chan]

All bedroom doors closed.

[Sheriff Holt]

Perhaps we'd better waken Mr. Ward.

[Charlie Chan]

Yes, it is better, I think, that he know of this. Yes, yes, what is it? Will you be pleased to come into hall, Mr. Ward? Yes, yes, right away.

[Sheriff Holt]

Feel better now? Sing.

[Leslie Beaton]

Oh.

[Ah Singh]

Let go. Wall. All light.

[Charlie Chan]

Good heavens. Who did this? What happened? We find your servant almost unconscious and blow in the face. A blow?

[Ah Singh]

Why won't you, boss? You're crazy. You're walking around. No bath lobe, no slipper. You catch them cold. High maybe.

[Adam Graham]

Never mind that.

[Charlie Chan]

Who hit you?

[Adam Graham]

Sing.

[Ah Singh]

Oh, how me know Plenty big men. No can see no light in a holly.

[Charlie Chan]

What were you doing here?

[Ah Singh]

Me doing? Oh, the same thing all the time. You work.

[Charlie Chan]

Work?

[Ah Singh]

Look at these flyers. Oh, too much work in this place.

[Charlie Chan]

Well, run along to bed. Sing.

[H]

You'll be all right now.

[Charlie Chan]

Yes, sing, old man should not concert with ruffian. You had better go to bed too, Mr. Ward, or you will catch cold. I suppose so. Good night. Good night.

[Sheriff Holt]

Did you see Ah Singh? See him as he walked down the passageway?

[Charlie Chan]

Yes. Walking with limp. Decidedly bad limp. But whether from so recent attack or falling over a vanity bench, who can say?

[Narrator]

Things do look bad for Ah Singh. No alibi at the time of the murder. Opportunity, yes. And now this. But somehow we can't believe Ah Singh guilty. And we don't believe that Inspector Chan really does either. After you have heard from your sponsor, Inspector Chan will be with us again with one of his appropriate Chinese sayings. What do you have for us this evening, Inspector Chan?

[Charlie Chan]

I have been thinking of Ah Singh's unwavering devotion to Mr. Ward. And I felt that the remark on friendship might be appropriate.

[Narrator]

I'm certain it will.

[Charlie Chan]

Inspector Chan, Many years ago in my country, a disciple of Confucius was asked to define friendship. He said, to measure eternity is a task easier by far than that is appraising the value of friends.

[Narrator]

I know that. I agree with him, Inspector. Thank you and good night.

[Charlie Chan]

Good night, Mr. Yostin.

[Narrator]

The most delightfully fascinating character in the Realms of mystery. Charlie Chan. Little did Charlie Chan think, when he was invited to Pine View by Dudley Ward to assist in tracing the millionaire's son, that he would be called upon to find the murderer of Ellen Landini, Ward's divorced wife and mother of his missing son. Of suspected murderers, there are plenty rider Romano, Dr. Swan, ex husbands of Landini's all had motives. So too has pretty Leslie Beaton, whose brother was Landini's latest acquisition. Young Don Holt. The sheriff arrived and after questioning the group, both he and Inspector Chan retire for a few hours rest. It is morning. Lake Tahoe sparkles under the rising sun. The gloominess of the night before is somewhat dispelled with the coming of day. And as far as Don Holt is concerned, more dispelled as he walks out to the sun porch and finds Leslie Beaton already at breakfast.

[Sheriff Holt]

Good morning, Ms. Beaton.

[I]

Oh, good morning, Sheriff. Are you going to share breakfast with me here on the sun porch, or are you going to breakfast with the others?

[Sheriff Holt]

Can't think of anything nicer than having breakfast with you, no matter where.

[I]

A very pretty speech, Sheriff. Hardly to be used to run and misses suspicion of murder.

[Sheriff Holt]

Oh, shucks, Ms. Beaton. Don't let that worry you. Anyway, I don't believe you're guilty.

[I]

Better not let Inspector Chan hear you talking this way.

[Sheriff Holt]

I don't believe the Inspector believes any different. Pretty nice fellow, Inspector Chan is. And smart. Don't worry, he'll find the murderer all right.

[I]

I. I'd like to thank you for what you did for me last night.

[Sheriff Holt]

Well, anything I can do. That is, it isn't too much out of line on the job of Sherrick. Ah, there's Inspector Chan.

[I]

Good morning, Inspector.

[Charlie Chan]

Good morning. May I be permitted to remark, Ms. Beaton, that you look very lovely this morning?

[I]

Thank you, Inspector. I did think for a while that I was going to have to appear in an evening gown, but Cecile helped me out. Not at all a bad fit.

[Charlie Chan]

Do you think opinion expressed by me on question of feminine fashion would be as useful as telescoping hands of blind man? However, will admit that it looks, in my humble opinion, leave nothing to be desired.

[Sheriff Holt]

Well, what's the order of the day, Inspector?

[Charlie Chan]

First, there are certain questions I desire to ask Cecile.

[I]

You won't have to wait long for Cecile. She's bringing me some French toast for breakfast.

[Charlie Chan]

Excellent. Then I fear we shall have the unpleasant interview with Mr. Ryder. After that, we shall proceed to question Cook before putting little dog trouble on plane of Madame Lantini.

[Sheriff Holt]

I don't get the idea of the dog at all, Inspector. I guess it's all right.

[Charlie Chan]

My plan is at present no more than guess. But if I am not mistaken, we shall have taken big stride over difficult place in our upward climb.

[Sheriff Holt]

Here is Cecile.

[Charlie Chan]

Good morning, Cecile.

[I]

Good morning, monsieur Cecile.

[Charlie Chan]

Cecile, I wish to ask you one or two questions.

[I]

But of course, monsieur. Esther Phil. That is to be expected.

[Charlie Chan]

The night of the murder, when last I saw you, Madame Landini had just asked you to fetch a blanket for her dog.

[I]

Your pardon, monsieur. That one Landini never asked one single thing she always order. And me, me, monsieur, I frankly refuse to get that blanket.

[Charlie Chan]

Quite so still. And so you asked Arsne to fetch blanket.

[I]

Your pardon again, monsieur. But I did not see Arcine. I went to the kitchen and stayed there till I heard the shot.

[Charlie Chan]

The cook was there all that time? The entire time?

[I]

But yes, Monsieur Inspector, all of the time.

[Charlie Chan]

Then the cook could not possibly have killed Madame Landini?

[I]

C'est impossible, monsieur. C'est ridiculous. She could not kill madame any more. Any more than I can.

[Charlie Chan]

Thank you so much. That is all. Cecile.

[I]

Monsieur will have breakfast. I see he has injured legs. So this morning I am helped with restaurant.

[Charlie Chan]

Ah, yes. Breakfast, Cecile. Yes. I shall partake of one glass of orange juice when I go to the kitchen to interview cook. Man of my ample proportions must sacrifice. Likes on the altar of health, you know.

[I]

And you, Monsieur Cherif? Only orange juice?

[Sheriff Holt]

Oh, I should say not. I'll have ham and eggs and an orange juice. I've got a hard day ahead of me.

[I]

Eh bien, monsieur. Oh, the eggs, you like them one way or two ways cooked?

[Sheriff Holt]

One way. Oh, I see. Yes. Turn them over two ways.

[I]

Eh bien, monsieur.

[Charlie Chan]

Ah, I see. Mr. Ryder. I wish to ask him a few questions.

[Sheriff Holt]

Want me with you, Inspector?

[Charlie Chan]

No, for a few minutes. Join us in study after breakfast.

[Sheriff Holt]

Okay, inspector.

[Charlie Chan]

Good morning, Mr. Ryder.

[H]

Good morning, Chan.

[Charlie Chan]

Mr. Ryder, may I ask you to step upstairs to study for a few moments?

[H]

Now, really, Chan. Don't you think this question and answer business has gone far enough?

[Charlie Chan]

You are suggesting that we consider the matter of Madame Landini's murder closed and like snap of fingers permit murderer to escape?

[H]

Oh, certainly not. The properly constituted authorities can take care of everything very nicely.

[Charlie Chan]

Not, of course that I deny your ability or anything, Mr. Halt. So sorry to disturb breakfast. Mr. Ryder declines to be questioned without presence of duly authorized person.

[H]

Now listen here.

[Charlie Chan]

Enough. Please go to the study.

[H]

And supposing I refuse?

[Charlie Chan]

The entire affair is out of my hand. Proper procedure. I believe by properly constituted authority would be to arrest you as material witness.

[H]

You wouldn't dare.

[Sheriff Holt]

Sorry, Mr. Ryder, but that's where you're wrong. I'm not hankering after arresting anybody. But if I have to, I have to. That's all.

[Charlie Chan]

You see, Mr. Ryder, no matter how hard the snake may try to swallow itself, the tail will always stick at the throat. The conversational circle which we have just completed has taken longer than the questioning to which you object. But here we are studded.

[H]

Well, then, out with it. What do you want to know?

[Charlie Chan]

Now, Mr. Ryder, you definitely stated last night that you were not in study until after Landini's death.

[H]

And I still say so. And you can't prove otherwise.

[Charlie Chan]

Mr. Ryder. Here on desk is part of burned letter. Also envelope same were retrieved from fireplace. Sheriff will tell you to whom same was addressed.

[Sheriff Holt]

The letter is addressed to Mr. John Ryder. Urgent, private, in a bold hand. But it doesn't look like a man's handwriting.

[Charlie Chan]

The Ryder will tell you whose writing it is.

[Narrator]

It is?

[H]

Yes. It's Ellen Landini's.

[Charlie Chan]

Correct. Addressed to you as private and urgent. Torn open, letter removed. Who would do that, Mr. Ryder?

[H]

How should I know?

[Charlie Chan]

Not many in this house. No gentleman, surely. No lady such would not tear open letters. Another. No, Mr. Rider, it appears to me that there is only one person who would open that letter.

[H]

Who?

[Charlie Chan]

Yourself.

[H]

A natural inference, perhaps. However, if you were correct, which you.

[Narrator]

Are not, what of it?

[H]

Don't forget that I was standing with you when Landini was killed.

[Charlie Chan]

That, Mr. Ryder, is what I am beginning to doubt. That is all just now. Thank you so much. Come, Sheriff. We will indulge in a few pleasantries with cook. I am certain if her cooking is engaged that she will be a more pleasant person to etfecate daily.

[Sheriff Holt]

Inspector, do you think that letter is so very important?

[Charlie Chan]

I can only surmise. I think said letter is as important in matter of link and chain of evidence as fatal bullet or little dog trouble.

[Sheriff Holt]

You've got me completely buffaloed with this dog trouble business. I don't see where on earth a dog can have any bearing on clearing up this mystery.

[Charlie Chan]

You have heard expression the dog knows when his master is sick?

[Sheriff Holt]

Yes, I think I have. Anyway, I know it's true.

[Charlie Chan]

We shall in a few minutes test again the truth of that statement. Oh, there's the cook.

[Sheriff Holt]

Mrs. O'Farrell, I'm Don Holt, Sheriff of the county. And this is Inspector Chan of the Honolulu Police.

[J]

Of Honolulu, eh? Sure.

[Charlie Chan]

Got here quick. Honored, if I may say so. Last evening I Had pleasure of sampling your cooking. And I bow to you in humble congratulation.

[J]

You talk real nice.

[Charlie Chan]

Sterner topics. Now engage us. You know, of course, what happened.

[J]

That I do murder. And I don't hold with it.

[Charlie Chan]

Well, none of us hold with it. Tell me you were here when Madame Landini's plane approached.

[J]

And that I was. A dinner like last night's no joke. But with our seeing out. And in like a will o'the wisp. And the little dog there. A crying and a whimpering with fear and fright.

[Charlie Chan]

Brighton, was he?

[J]

Yes, that he was. But no more than I was after I heard of the murder. I'll no rest in me bed till the fiend be caught. He'll move as fast as you can, I hope.

[Charlie Chan]

We must collect at leisure what we may use in haste. The fool only in a hurry, drinks his tea with a fork. And Cecile, she was here?

[J]

Yes. Standing there in the back stairs waiting for something.

[Charlie Chan]

And this is the little dog asleep? Poor little Trouble?

[Adam Graham]

Yes.

[J]

Him lying there is a quiet and peaceful life. Not knowing that his mistress is gone.

[Charlie Chan]

What's that, Mrs. Island? The pilot is warming up Landini's plane. I told him he was to go to Reno. Look, look, Sheriff Trouble. The dog wagging his tail, overjoyed the sound of the plane. Overjoyed at the idea of an airplane trip.

[J]

That's different from the way he was acting last night.

[Charlie Chan]

Yes. Trouble is not afraid to go and plane. Truly. Was it said the dog knows when the master is ill?

[Sheriff Holt]

What on earth do you mean?

[Charlie Chan]

The reason Trouble was fearful and frightened when the plane was over the house last night. Was not because he was frightened by plane. But because he knew that his mistress was already dead.

[Sheriff Holt]

Then. Then, about the shot you heard.

[Charlie Chan]

The shot we heard was not the shot which killed Landini. Landini was already dead.

[Narrator]

Well, that places a different complexion on the whole case. If the shot the group heard was not the fatal shot, Then all are under suspicion. Again, the case is wide open. After you have heard from your sponsor, Inspector Chan will be with us again. Well, Mr. Chan, what feet do you have in store for us tonight?

[Charlie Chan]

I have been thinking a great deal about the little dog trouble. You see, Mr. Wilson, dumb animals have great gifts of nature. Instinctively, they know their friend. It has been well said that man, though kind of feature. Open handed in generosity and valuable with good words, is to be avoided. The same is shunned by dogs.

[Narrator]

So that sometimes dogs may be better judges of human beings than men.

[Charlie Chan]

Very often that is the case, Mr. Wilson.

[Narrator]

Thank you, Inspector. Chan and good night.

[Charlie Chan]

Good night, Mr. Wilson.

[Adam Graham]

Welcome back. An interesting entrance to the story. I do feel like while it'd be nice to have the full story, honestly, I don't feel like we've missed anything vital. Likely there would have been an episode or so establishing the characters, and then the murder would have occurred. But the big theory the killer wanted us to believe is essentially smashed at the end of episode eight, sending the case back to square one. This is very much like in the old days. If you tuned into a mystery movie 20 minutes in, you're gonna catch it up. Plus you get the idea that there are a lot of suspects, and this is going to be complicated regardless. So I feel like this is going to be fine. It was interesting to have Charlie Chad playing a bit of hardball with the one witness who was balking at cooperating with him. In many of these sort of cases, there's not often given a good reason why people should cooperate with Poirot or someone who doesn't have official standing. And Chan's like, if you don't want to answer my questions, that's fine. Go the official route. You'll get booked as a material witness. You could just stay here and relax and enjoy the mansion in between questioning. But if you'd rather go down to lockup, the sheriff can arrange that for you. I also felt that this really had a 1930s movie feel, and that was really helped by the sheriff's voice. He just really sounds like he stepped out of a 30s movie, which I don't think we've gotten that sense with any of the 30 series we played, maybe because those series have not been based in New York and we haven't had a lot of them. We've had Air Mail, Mystery, a few episodes of Sherlock Holmes, and some Mercury Theater. So not a whole lot of radio from Hollywood, but this feeling like a movie, it's a very different experience. Now, if you did not recognize the voice of the announcer, the Mr. Wilson that inspector Chan references is in fact Don Wilson, who is probably best known for being the announcer for the Jack Benny radio program. So a bit of a treat that way. Alright, well, now it's time to thank our Patreon supporter of the day. Thank you to Kathy, Patreon supporter, since February of 2024, currently supporting the podcast at the Psalmist level of $4 or more per month. Thanks so much for your support, Kathy. And that will actually do it for today. If you're enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software. And if you're enjoying the podcast on YouTube. Be sure to like the video, subscribe to the channel, and mark the notification bell. All those great things that help YouTube channels to grow. We will be back next Tuesday with the next installment in Charlie Chan. But join us back here tomorrow for Broadway's my beat, where two days ago.

[Leslie Beaton]

I stole $20,000 and you're giving yourself up to me. Well, it was for my wife. You. You understand that, don't you? Just that you stole $20,000, that's all. Here's Marcia's photograph. That's my wife's photograph.

[Charlie Chan]

Yes.

[Leslie Beaton]

She's going on 42. No, she is going on 43 now. Not very attractive anymore. I know that she. She looks like what she is after 20 years of me. Bank teller. You stole the money from the bank? Well, I stole $20,000 from the Charles Street national bank where I work because I was told I could have Marcia back for that amount of money. Are you trying to tell me that Marcia was kidnapped? Yeah, but don't you see? All right, go on. Well, I came home yesterday and Marcia wasn't there. About 9:00, I got a phone call. A man said Marcia wouldn't be heard if I brought the money. Then he put Marsha on the phone. And she was being brave, I know, but I. See, I could tell she was frightened. Terrified. She pleaded with me. Whenever you can talk, Mr. Dean, I can talk.

[Charlie Chan]

Man has a right to feel about his wife.

[Leslie Beaton]

Man said, bring the money. Go to that summer resort, Far Rockaway. Register at the Idle Wild Arms, put the money in the bottom bureau drawer and leave. But I did it. And they lied to me. Marsha hasn't come home.

[Adam Graham]

I hope you'll be with us then. In the meantime, send your comments to box13atives.net follow us on Twitter at radiodetectives and check us out on Instagram. Instagram.com greatdetectives from Boise, Idaho, this is your host, Adam Graham, signing off.