
Today's Mystery: The lovely Ms. Beaton is caught in a lie, and then even more suspects emerge. Original Radio Broadcast Date: 1935 or 1936 Originating in Los Angeles Starring: Walter Connolly as Inspector Charlie Chan Support the show monthly...
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Narrator
It.
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, if you are enjoying this podcast, I want to encourage you to follow us using your favorite podcast software. And I also want to let you know about one of our other podcasts, the Old Time Radio Snack Wagon. It's a weekly snack sized podcast featuring relatively short programs, either self contained or clips from longer programs. We've had some interesting things this year, including a program that actually featured the voice of George Washington Carver. It's a great celebration of all sorts of old time radio that's out there. You can check it out@snackwagon.net that's snackwagon.net or wherever you get your podcast. Well now we're going back to 1930, 1935 or 1936 for episodes 10 and 11. Too many lies and Jealousy.
Narrator
The most delightfully fascinating character in the realms of mystery, Charlie Chan. At Pine View near Lake Tahoe, Charlie Chan is endeavoring to find out who killed Landini, the noted opera singer. Suspicion falls equally on Ward, the owner of Pine View, Romano, Swan and Ryder, all at different times, married to Landini. Pretty Leslie Beaton, to whose brother Hugh Landini had been engaged, also is suspected when her scarf Is found in the dead woman's hands. And now Ryder, under questioning, adds to the suspicion by stating that he saw Leslie Beaton standing on the balcony a few seconds before Landini was killed.
Inspector Chan
You Must be mistaken, Mr. Ryder.
Mr. Ryder
I'm sorry, Mr. Holt, but I'm not mistaken. Perhaps Ms. Beaton is omitted to tell you of the incident. But I don't think she'll deny it when you tax it.
Mr. Holt
Which, of course, Mr. Ryder, we shall do but of Ms. Beaton later. Present moment we deal with you. What else did you see as you looked from window?
Mr. Ryder
Besides Landini standing on the balcony and Ms. Beaton on the balcony? Nothing.
Mr. Holt
You saw airplane with wonder pilot, Mr. Island at control, same as I did when looking from window.
Mr. Ryder
Well, naturally. But you were there at that particular.
Inspector Chan
Moment, did you see Landini waving to Ireland?
Mr. Ryder
Yes, I did, of course. Is that important?
Inspector Chan
Perhaps? What was she waving with? Her hand, hat or what?
Mr. Ryder
Now that you mention it, I believe it was something like a large silk handkerchief. That's only a guess, of course, but.
Inspector Chan
It might have been a scarf.
Mr. Ryder
Yes, a silk or what do you call them?
Narrator
Chiffon.
Mr. Ryder
A chiffon scarf.
Mr. Holt
Ah. Its color, Mr. Ryder, it's color. Please, that is so important.
Mr. Ryder
I realize its importance as well as you do. Since Ms. Beaton's pink scarf was found in Landini's hand, I can't tell. Anything I might say about its color would be pure guesswork.
Mr. Holt
So sorry you did not see color. It would have been most important Clue. Now then, Mr. Ryder, you left window. Did you by any chance look out into passageway?
Mr. Ryder
Not exactly. But of course, you left the door open and I did see.
Mr. Holt
Yes. Proceed. We wait anxiously. Result of my having carelessly left door open.
Mr. Ryder
I saw Dr. Swan standing looking into the study and he turned and went down the stairs.
Inspector Chan
You couldn't tell whether or not he had actually been in the study?
Mr. Ryder
No, I couldn't tell that. I had no particular reason to even think about his being there. It was perfectly natural. He was looking into the study. Then he turned and went down to the living room.
Mr. Holt
Then you saw Mr. Ward come along passageway and join us in room just before we heard shot.
Mr. Ryder
No, no, I didn't. I turned to look out the window again when Ireland went into that final loop before he landed. Next thing I remember was Dudley Ward saying that Ireland's a clever flyer, all right.
Mr. Holt
Quite so. From that moment on, I believe we're equally aware of what took place. Mr. Ryder, thank you so very much indeed for your cooperation. You have corroborated in part Rather extraordinary claim of Ms. Beaton. Will you be so good as to remain while we question young lady about her omission to tell us she was on balcony?
Mr. Ryder
Well, I don't see why I should be made to face her.
Inspector Chan
You're not being made to face her, but I for one would prefer it.
Mr. Ryder
Well, then, I suppose so. You have any real reason?
Mr. Holt
I have very definite reason, Mr. Holt. Will you ask Miss Beaton to come in, please?
Inspector Chan
Oh, yeah, yeah, sure.
Mr. Holt
Thank you so much. Mr. Ryder. You are hiding something.
Mr. Ryder
See here, Chen. Are you implying that I'm lying?
Mr. Holt
No, Mr. Rider. Since you are not upon oath to tell whole truth and nothing but truth. But you are not telling everything.
Mr. Ryder
Well, have it your own way, Chan. I've said all I'm going to say.
Mr. Holt
In little boy attending school, refusal to tell on companion is laudable trait of character. But in man asking questions about murder of fellow human, said refusal is anything but laudable.
Mr. Ryder
In spite of your eloquent plea, Chan, I have nothing to add.
Mr. Holt
Sit down, Miss Beaton, please. So sorry to have to disturb you, but Mr. Ryder, much against his will, I must add.
Mr. Ryder
Thank you. Chan.
Mr. Holt
Mr. Rider says that upon looking out window, he saw you on balcony at the same time as murdered woman.
Ms. Beaton
That's quite possible, Mr. Chan. I did step out onto the balcony for a few moments while the plane was landing, but it was too cold. I remained less than a minute, I believe.
Mr. Holt
But you did not tell us that before. Can you give reason?
Ms. Beaton
Yes, I can. Ever since this. This murder happened, I've been thinking in terms of what happened when we heard the shot. It was before the shot that I was on the balcony and I. Well, it nearly escaped my memory.
Mr. Holt
I see. Oh, well, we'll not detain you longer. Mr. Ryder. I wonder, would you be so kind as to mention to Mr. Ward, our host, that we would like to see him?
Mr. Ryder
It'll be a pleasure, Mr. Chan.
Inspector Chan
Ryder sure doesn't like you, Inspector.
Mr. Holt
So seldom people having something to conceal do like policemen.
Inspector Chan
I have a confession to make, Inspector.
Mr. Holt
Ah. I'm so glad that you saw your way to making it without suggestion from me.
Inspector Chan
What was that?
Mr. Holt
You refer, of course, to fact that you warned Ms. Beaton about Mr. Ryder's statement while escorting her to study.
Inspector Chan
Yes, Inspector, I. I know I shouldn't have done it, but.
Mr. Holt
Well, I am not reproofful. It was in my mind that you should do so. When I asked you to bring Ms. Beaton, it was Mr. Ryder's face I wished to study.
Inspector Chan
Did you learn anything?
Mr. Holt
Impossible at this Moment to say now, Ms. Beaton. Real reason this time, if you please. Why did you not tell us you were on balcony?
Ms. Beaton
Real reason? But I. I just told you.
Mr. Holt
Reason you gave dear young lady was sufficient for purpose of answering before Mr. Rider, but for purpose of assisting us, Mr. Holt and me in solving mystery. No, not quite enough.
Ms. Beaton
But honestly, really. Mr. Chen.
Mr. Holt
One moment, please. Perhaps it will be easier if I explain. You did not mention that you saw your brother.
Ms. Beaton
You. You knew.
Mr. Holt
I surmised. Your brother, furious at Landini sending for Ireland, was standing outside house. He showed his anger quite plainly. You saw him. You also saw Landini. You thought it possible that in fit of unreasoning rage your brother might have killed Landini. So you tried loyally to shield your brother. It was unnecessary gesture.
Ms. Beaton
You. You mean that my brother could not.
Mr. Holt
Have killed Landini that moment of which you suspected him? He could not have done so. You see, angle of bullet disprove that. But of course, about angle of bullet, you do not know. That does not preclude suspicion of your brother at earlier time. But I only wish to show you. Please be honest and open with us. We have only desire to help you.
Ms. Beaton
I'm so sorry, Mr. Chen. I really am. And ashamed.
Inspector Chan
Come in. Oh, Mr. Ward and Mrs. O'Farrell.
Mr. Ryder
Yes, sir. I was bringing Mrs. O'Farrell with me to see what you would like to eat. You've both been at it for hours without a stop and without eating. I met John Ryder as I was on my way up. He said you wanted to see me. Have you learned anything?
Mr. Holt
A little, Mr. Ward. But so little. Mr. Ward, we sent for you to ask this question. When you were on way to turn on landing lights. Did you pass anyone in hall?
Mr. Ryder
I don't think so. You see, I went down the back stairs. As you know, I met Cece.
Mr. Holt
Yes, yes, of course. But think it is important. Did you see. Did you see Dr. Swan or Mr. Romano?
Mr. Ryder
Yes, I remember Romano. He mentioned something about Ireland coming so close to the house as to nearly take the roof off.
Ms. Beaton
And that's no lie. And it isn't. He came so close to that back wall, he'd think he was trying to land on the balcony. And Cecil down there in the kitchen stairs, madder than a hornet at the way her husband was a carrying and a showing off for Landini. Begging your pardon, Mr. Ward, but that's the truth.
Mr. Holt
And it is so. Mr. Ireland came so close to back wall as to almost touch balcony that.
Ms. Beaton
He did Landini standing there waving at him. You saw her just For a minute. A dinner like that's no joke, as I told you. And I didn't have any too much time for looking at flying machines.
Mr. Holt
Madame Landini was still standing on balcony when you went back to kitchen.
Ms. Beaton
Well, then, now when you mention it, she stepped back into the room kinda. Kinda sudden like, if you know what I mean.
Mr. Holt
I think so. Thank you, Mrs. O'Farrell. That will be all at present.
Ms. Beaton
Thank you kindly, sir. What will you have for lunch?
Mr. Holt
We shall leave that entirely in your hands. There are none more capable, I'm certain.
Narrator
If you don't need me for anything else.
Mr. Holt
Not at all, Mr. Ward. Thank you so much.
Ms. Beaton
I'll go with you, Mr. Ward. If Mr. Chan doesn't want to ask.
Mr. Holt
Any more questions at present. No, Ms. Beaton.
Inspector Chan
I'll see you later, Ms. Beaton. Leslie. So, Ireland, eh? Coming close to the balcony. The bullet was fired from above. Completely drowned out by the noise of the motor.
Mr. Holt
Precisely, Sheriff. I think if Mr. Island does not return by night from Reno, we will be put to distressing necessity of going after him.
Ms. Beaton
Yes, Sheriff. If Mr. Ireland wonder pilot does not return, we shall most certainly have to follow him and return him to scene of crime.
Inspector Chan
While I recognize that Ireland did sweep.
Narrator
Close to the house.
Inspector Chan
And did have an opportunity to shoot Landini from the plane. Still do you think he had enough motive?
Ms. Beaton
Motive in different people is very different things. Motive which might motivate you to laughter. Might in other person motivate the crime of killing. This killing obviously committed in heat of passion. Therefore, the person committing murder did so while unbalanced, Even so slightly.
Inspector Chan
Yes, that's true all right.
Ms. Beaton
Unfortunately, yes. Person who takes life of another is unbalanced. Except when person does same in duty.
Inspector Chan
Lots of murderers, though, have thought they were killing from a sense of duty. I'd be that in this case.
Ms. Beaton
And if duty were considered motive, we should be forced to look toward who.
Inspector Chan
Yes, yes, I'll sing and Leslie. Ms. Beaton.
Ms. Beaton
That is right. However, to return to wonder pilot island. It is possible that from his position in plane, Assuming that he is not murderer, it is possible. I think that he may have seen something which would be important clue. Come in, Mr. Ward. Already go. Leno. Anything you'd like to say or aske before he go away? I do not think so. I sing. I had lengthy talk with Mr. Ward. Nothing more to be added, I think Missy Beaton she speak to me that suppose you not too much busy. She like to say something. Yes, what else? I see me all the time at work. So much work in this place. But me some time I look, I see Missy.
Mr. Holt
Missy beaten.
Ms. Beaton
She scare too much. Is scare you, Javi? Too much.
Narrator
Frighten again.
Ms. Beaton
Have her come to study? I think you yes. Better that you accompany her asking. Well, whatever you say, bossy. Me do Mr. Ward, he speak to me helping you all at one time.
Mr. Holt
Very good.
Ms. Beaton
Singh, bring Ms. Beaton here.
Inspector Chan
Quite a sudden change in Sing's attitude, eh, Inspector?
Ms. Beaton
Indeed, yes. He who acts for the emperor is the emperor. Mr. Ward's courtesy and helpfulness now distant like mantle upon shoulders of our sea.
Inspector Chan
I'm sure anxious about this Ireland business. If he's gone. Gone for good, I mean.
Ms. Beaton
Then matter will be in hands of government state. Mr. Ireland's failure to return could only be construed as one thing. Guilt. The sheriff.
Inspector Chan
Yes, Inspector.
Ms. Beaton
Perhaps it is that in this case we are like persons who cannot see trees because of thickness of wood. Perhaps there are so many clues that we cannot find essential clues.
Inspector Chan
Essential clue, eh?
Ms. Beaton
Yes. Expression is my friend Inspector Duff of Scotland Yard. One essential clue, he say. Always more important than many non essential clues.
Inspector Chan
Go on, I'm waiting.
Ms. Beaton
Think, sir. Red lid on yellow box. Yellow lid on red box. Pink scarf with green costume. Ms. Beaten Scarf and dead woman's hands. Maybe.
Inspector Chan
Yes, maybe.
Ms. Beaton
Maybe. Person we so diligently but hopelessly seek is person of very poor eyesight.
Inspector Chan
Doggone it, Inspector, I bet you've hit it. Now, let's see. Who wears gloves? Ireland doesn't?
Ms. Beaton
No. If that remark I made were correct in diagnosis, Mr. Ireland would be eliminated. Flyer cannot have poor eyesight.
Inspector Chan
And Leslie, she doesn't wear glasses.
Ms. Beaton
Nor Mr. Romano who reads musical score. Which for conductor requires very good eyesight. He does not wear glasses, probably.
Inspector Chan
Leslie. Come in.
Ms. Beaton
Meeting you, Mrs. Beatman.
Inspector Chan
Oh, come in, Miss Beatrice. Sit down. This chair more comfortable.
Ms. Beaton
Thank you, Mr. Hill. You like to ask any more questions, Mr. Chan? I do not think so. I think. What's the matter?
Narrator
You.
Ms. Beaton
You no like asking me? I think you know. See Cecilia Baxter. No. I see. That sounded funny. What was it, Inspector Chang? I remarked, Ah Singh. That even parrots can learn sayings of Confucius. The same I repeated physician a number of times in Ah Singh reply. But. Ah Singh, you repeat, please in English. Ms. Vicky. Suppose you pull it too many times. Tail feather of parrot find by parapite.
Narrator
Yes. No.
Ms. Beaton
Ah Singh, before you go, I have only one question to ask. What you like to know? Have you anything to tell us that you have not told us? No. Can tell the very poor policeman?
Narrator
No.
Advertiser
Sorry.
Ms. Beaton
What kind of question you like asking me no can say not seen nothing. Me go another bedroom.
Mr. Holt
Yes, yes.
Ms. Beaton
Sing.
Mr. Holt
I know.
Ms. Beaton
You go another bedroom for blanket for little dog trouble. That would be all, I say little more. You come to luncheon home at your work in this place more better you come and luncheon this time quick. We should pay due attention to your reproof when you come to lunch. When chime sounds. Yes, I'm the last speaking.
Inspector Chan
Our thing told us that you were frightened.
Ms. Beaton
Again. I am. My room was searched.
Narrator
What?
Ms. Beaton
Yes, I had made some notes, written down everything as well as I could remember it. So that. So that if I were brought to trial, my attorney could have the benefit of the notes. You understand?
Inspector Chan
Doggone smart thing to do.
Ms. Beaton
Extremely so. Continue, Ms. Beaton. The notes are gone.
Inspector Chan
Gone, eh? Now, who would do a thing like that?
Ms. Beaton
Same person as perhaps opened letter addressed to Mr. Rider.
Inspector Chan
Meaning perhaps that Mr. Rider is was telling the truth after all.
Ms. Beaton
This invasion of Ms. Beaton's personal affairs would tend to make it appear so. When did you discover your loss, Ms. Beaton? This morning. I sat down to add something. And that something was Ms. Beaton. That last night, very late or early this morning, I should say. I heard Austin arguing with someone in the passageway.
Inspector Chan
Oh, you probably heard Inspector Chan and me talking to him.
Ms. Beaton
No, I heard that too. That was before that. You. You do not know whose voice you heard?
Narrator
It is important.
Ms. Beaton
Very important.
Mr. Holt
Perhaps.
Ms. Beaton
Who knows? Most important clue to date. No, I. I admit that I tried.
Narrator
To recognize it, but I couldn't listen.
Ms. Beaton
I didn't.
Inspector Chan
Can it be Ireland?
Ms. Beaton
Yes, it is. Look over the lake.
Narrator
Come.
Ms. Beaton
We will go to meet him, Ms. Beaton. We will lay a little trap, you and I. One does not catch butterflies with mouse traps. You will again write notes, but this time tell no one. I will do telling.
Inspector Chan
I guess Ireland's landed. I don't hear the plane.
Ms. Beaton
Oh, it is you. Monsieur Hoult and Monsieur Chen. Indeed, yes. Cecile, you came to welcome your husband. May we? Oh, but yes. I have plenty to say to him.
Narrator
Hi, everybody.
Ms. Beaton
This time you do not make the circles, the dives, the loops. You do not make this show off for why there is no Landini. Why you no make sure same as before.
Narrator
Why? Why before? I saw someone standing on the balcony. I came down to see who it was.
Ms. Beaton
You knew only too well who it was.
Narrator
Now, how could I? I thought maybe it was you. So I dropped down as close as I dared. Then I saw it was Landini.
Ms. Beaton
So then you did this soda whisky neck to give her the thrill.
Narrator
Now Listen, I circled the field a few times to get my bearing.
Ms. Beaton
Did you think this field was on the roof? Ah, you are one big fool. You are what you call infatuated with Landini. Reckless. Risky life for her.
Narrator
I tell you, I was looking for the landing field. Then the lights flashed on. How?
Ms. Beaton
But did you land? No, you stunt again.
Narrator
Listen, I know what I was doing. I don't need any backseat driving.
Ms. Beaton
Your pardon, Mr. Island. You circled the house how many times?
Narrator
Three times, Inspector.
Ms. Beaton
We saw Madame Landini three times.
Narrator
No, only twice. The last time I circled, she had gone.
Ms. Beaton
You do not have to tell that. We know it. When she had gone, there was no more looking for the landing key. No more of the stunt. You land.
Narrator
Blandini was my boss. I was earning my pay. She didn't mean a thing to me. You were just jealous. Madder than a wet hen.
Ms. Beaton
Mad? Yes, I was mad. My husband carrion like fool. Oh, I was mad enough to kill her.
Narrator
Cecile.
Ms. Beaton
Indeed.
Mr. Holt
Yes.
Ms. Beaton
Cecile, come please. So sorry. I think it better you accompany sheriff and me living room. Thank you so much.
Narrator
Well, Cecile's fiery temperament and quick tongue bring suspicion upon her. But we must not forget that Leslie Beaton saw Cecile leave the study, but did not see her return. We'll have to wait and see what Inspector Chan makes of this latest discovery. After you have heard from your sponsor, Inspector Chan will be with us again. Well, Inspector Chan, what philosophical saying have you for us tonight?
Ms. Beaton
I have been thinking of Castile. Yes, indeed.
Mr. Holt
Yes.
Ms. Beaton
Ancient saying has it that there is no such poison in the green snake's mouth. As in jealous woman's heart. Also person's most formidable enemy. His own quick temper and too ready tongue.
Narrator
Very true indeed, Inspector Chan. I am sure everyone agrees with you. Thank you and good night.
Ms. Beaton
Honor as well as pleasure. Mr. Wilson.
Mr. Holt
Foreign.
Narrator
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Adam Graham
Welcome back. Do we have enough suspects yet? We've got the ex husbands of Landini, which many mysteries would be enough. But then we also have got Ms. Beaton saying. And now we have the pilot and the pilot's Wife. Are there any I'm missing? While the discussion between Chan and the sheriff is interesting, I'm kind of questioning his logic when he's saying that this was a crime of passion and suggesting that the pilot might have done it. Because if it was the pilot, it is not a crime of passion. If he flew a mid-1930s airplane near the house, took aim out the window and killed Landini, that is a cold and premeditated crime, not to mention kind of impossible to pull off while flying the plane. Now, maybe had an accomplice, but even then it seems like that person would have to be a crack marksman. It's just a very hard way to commit murder. Still, there's a lot going on in this process. We have inspector channeling all kinds of traps and casting all kinds of suspicions. Suspicion. So there's a lot to come and really look forward to what's ahead. All right, well, listener comments and feedback now. And we go to Spotify. And Charles writes, has Charlie Chan ever been played by an Asian actor? Every iteration I know of has had a Caucasian actor portray the role. Well, thanks so much, Charles. Appreciate the question. And of course that's a really controversial aspect of the character in the series because when people think of the Charlie Chan series, they think of the, I think around 40 films where you have Warner Oland and then Sidney Toller and then finally Roland Winters, all Caucasian actors in the role of Charlie Chan. Then there was a TV series starring J. Carol Nash, who was also Caucasian. And then you had a 1970s TV film starring Ross Martin and a 1981 movie starring Peter Ustinov. But there were a few cases of Asian actors playing the part. The first three films feature Charlie Chan featured two Japanese born actors and one Chinese American actor. George Kua played Chan in the silent film the House Without a Key and Sojin Kame played him in the Chinese Parrot. Both of those were silent films that are considered loss. The first sound film was behind that Curtain and it starred EL park, who was a Chinese American actor. I did actually see behind that Curtain and it definitely doesn't have the feel of the typical Charlie Chan film that people came to love. Chan was referenced early in the film and then showed up with 15 or 20 minutes left to go. It was much more of a crime film with Charlie Chan as a supporting character. The other time that an Asian actor portrayed Charlie Chan was in animation with Key Luke, who played number one son in the 1930s Chan film and the later two films playing Charlie Chan in the Hanna Barbera animated series. The Amazing Chan and the Chan Clan, which I always thought crossed over with Scooby Doo, but I think that's kind of a Mandela effect because I can find no record of that happening. Although it also might be the fact that the Chan clan had a van called, of course, the Chan Van, and they also had a dog. But at any rate, yes, there have been some Asian actors to portray Charlie Chan. But thank you so much for the question, Charles. Now it's time to thank our Patreon supporter of the day, and I want to go ahead and thank James. James has been one of our patreon supporters since October 2022, currently supporting the podcast at the Detective Sergeant level of $7.14 or more per month. Thanks so much for your support, James. 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 another chapter in this story, but join us back here tomorrow for Broadway's My Beat. Where?
Mr. Ryder
Go ahead, Mr. Goodman.
Ms. Beaton
We left Chinatown and we were riding along. I was watching the street signs go by. You know, 31st Street, 32nd Street, 31st Street.
Mr. Ryder
I do that myself, Mr. Goodman. Go ahead.
Ms. Beaton
Well, around about 35th street and First Avenue, I saw a murder.
Mr. Ryder
Go ahead.
Ms. Beaton
It was in one of those houses and I remember to observe something.
Mr. Ryder
Yeah, what was that?
Ms. Beaton
The house was on the right hand side of the street going north.
Mr. Ryder
What did you do when you saw.
Narrator
This murder, Mr. Goodman?
Ms. Beaton
What does a responsible citizen do when he sees a murder while he's riding on a bus?
Narrator
He tells the bus driver.
Mr. Ryder
And what did the bus driver tell you exactly?
Ms. Beaton
What an irresponsible bus driver always does. He said he had a schedule to keep.
Mr. Ryder
Pardon me, Mr. Goodman.
Adam Graham
I hope you'll be with us then. In the meantime, send your comments to box13reatdetectives.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.
Episode: Charlie Chan: The Landini Murder Case: Too Many Lies and Jealous (EP4684)
Release Date: April 22, 2025
Host: Adam Graham
In this riveting episode of The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio, host Adam Graham delves into the classic mystery of Charlie Chan: The Landini Murder Case: Too Many Lies and Jealous. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Pine View near Lake Tahoe, the story unfolds with the murder of the renowned opera singer, Landini. As always, Adam Graham not only narrates the suspenseful narrative but also provides insightful commentary, enriching the listener's experience.
The episode centers around the investigation led by the astute Inspector Charlie Chan as he unravels the complex web of motives and alibis surrounding Landini's untimely death. The primary suspects include:
As Inspector Chan meticulously interviews the suspects, discrepancies in their statements and subtle clues begin to surface, pointing towards deeper secrets and hidden motives.
Mr. Ryder's Testimony ([05:05] - [08:31])
Mr. Ryder recounts what he observed around the time of the murder, noting his sighting of Ms. Beaton on the balcony alongside Landini. His inability to discern colors becomes a pivotal point when discussing the pink scarf found with Landini's body.
Mr. Ryder ([05:07]): "I'm not mistaken. Perhaps Ms. Beaton is omitted to tell you of the incident."
Inspector Chan ([05:46]): "Perhaps? What was she waving with? Her hand, hat or what?"
The inconsistency regarding the color of the scarf becomes a significant clue, leading Inspector Chan to question Mr. Ryder's reliability.
Ms. Beaton's Admission ([09:02] - [10:43])
Under Inspector Chan's probing, Ms. Beaton reveals her brief time on the balcony during the murder, which she initially omitted from her statement.
Ms. Beaton ([09:28]): "Ever since this murder happened, I've been thinking in terms of what happened when we heard the shot. It was before the shot that I was on the balcony and I... it nearly escaped my memory."
This admission not only deepens the mystery but also casts doubt on her initial credibility.
Inspector Chan's Analysis ([10:44] - [19:02])
As the investigation progresses, Inspector Chan dissects the motives, suggesting that jealousy might be a driving force behind the murder. He challenges the notion that Mr. Ireland, the pilot, could have committed a crime of passion, given the complex logistics involved.
Inspector Chan ([15:10]): "Yes, Sheriff. If Mr. Ireland wonder pilot does not return, we will most certainly have to follow him and return him to the scene of the crime."
The dialogue highlights the tension between different suspects and the overarching quest for truth.
Ms. Beaton's Reflection ([26:34] - [26:53])
Towards the episode's conclusion, Ms. Beaton shares a profound philosophical insight, tying human emotions to the motives behind crimes.
Ms. Beaton ([26:37]): "Ancient saying has it that there is no such poison in the green snake's mouth. As in jealous woman's heart. Also person's most formidable enemy. His own quick temper and too ready tongue."
This reflection underscores the timeless themes of jealousy and inner turmoil as catalysts for wrongdoing.
Inspector Charlie Chan
Portrayed with intelligence and keen observation, Inspector Chan navigates the complex case with a blend of methodical questioning and psychological insight. His ability to detect inconsistencies and delve beneath the surface of each suspect's testimony is pivotal to advancing the investigation.
Ms. Leslie Beaton
A central figure entwined in the mystery, Ms. Beaton's actions and revelations suggest layers of deception and emotional conflict. Her initial omission regarding her presence on the balcony raises suspicions about her true motives and potential involvement in the murder.
Mr. Ryder
Serving as a key witness, Mr. Ryder's statements are both informative and enigmatic. His reluctance to fully divulge details and his strained interactions with Inspector Chan hint at underlying secrets that may hold the key to solving the case.
Mr. Ireland
The wonder pilot introduces an unconventional suspect into the narrative. Inspector Chan's skepticism about the feasibility of Mr. Ireland committing a premeditated murder during flight adds complexity to the investigation, challenging listeners to consider alternative angles.
Mr. Ryder discussing the scarf:
Mr. Ryder ([06:05]): "A chiffon scarf."
Ms. Beaton's confession:
Ms. Beaton ([12:26]): "I'm so sorry, Mr. Chen. I really am. And ashamed."
Inspector Chan on poor eyesight eliminating suspects:
Inspector Chan ([19:02]): "Doggone it, Inspector, I bet you've hit it."
Ms. Beaton's philosophical insight:
Ms. Beaton ([26:34]): "Ancient saying has it that there is no such poison in the green snake's mouth. As in jealous woman's heart."
As the episode draws to a close, tensions escalate with new revelations and unresolved questions. While some suspects appear to be clearing their names, others become entangled in deeper layers of deceit. The introduction of unseen forces, such as potential accomplices or hidden motives, leaves listeners eagerly anticipating the next installment.
Adam Graham's Commentary ([27:59] - [33:28]):
Host Adam Graham provides a critical analysis of the pilot's potential involvement, questioning the plausibility of a crime of passion being executed from an airplane. He highlights the logical inconsistencies and underscores the complexity of the mystery, setting the stage for future developments.
Adam Graham ([29:00]): "Still, there's a lot going on in this process. We have inspector channeling all kinds of traps and casting all kinds of suspicions. Suspicion. So there's a lot to come and really look forward to what's ahead."
Adam Graham addresses listener queries, notably Charles's question about the portrayal of Charlie Chan by Asian actors. He provides a comprehensive overview of the character's portrayals across different media, acknowledging the controversy and historical context.
Adam Graham ([33:05]): "But thank you so much for the question, Charles."
Additionally, Graham extends gratitude to Patreon supporters, fostering a sense of community and appreciation among his audience.
Charlie Chan: The Landini Murder Case: Too Many Lies and Jealous stands out as a masterfully crafted mystery that intertwines classic detective work with timeless human emotions. The episode not only captivates listeners with its intricate plot and dynamic characters but also invites them to ponder the deeper motivations that drive individuals to commit heinous acts. As Inspector Charlie Chan continues his quest for truth, listeners are left on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this enthralling saga.
Stay Tuned: Don't miss the continuation of this mystery in the next episode, where Broadway's My Beat takes the spotlight. Subscribe to The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio on your favorite podcast platform or visit greatdetectives.net for more suspenseful adventures.