Charlie Chan: The Pearl of Great Price (EP4797)

Summary

The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio

Charlie Chan: "The Pearl of Great Price" (EP4797)

Release Date: September 9, 2025
Host: Adam Graham

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Episode Overview

In "The Pearl of Great Price," listeners are treated to a classic Charlie Chan mystery set against the backdrop of World War II-era America. The show centers on the kidnapping of Charlie Chan’s daughter Rose and the robbery of a bank, skillfully interweaving family dynamics, criminal intrigue, and themes of unity and resourcefulness during wartime. This episode captures the balance between Chan's dedication to his family and his impeccable detective instincts, with moments of humor and the warmth of familial affection.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

1. Episode Introduction & Context

• [01:57] Adam Graham welcomes listeners and introduces the episode as an installment missing a precise date, likely from summer 1944.
• Listeners are invited to support the podcast and are given a brief overview of the episode’s context.

2. Setting the Stage: Family Night Interrupted

• [03:13] The drama opens with Charlie Chan at home, enjoying an evening with his children, Rose (writing to her boyfriend Jimmy, who's with the Navy) and Tommy.

• The typical family banter is laced with lighthearted exchanges about American slang and family roles.

  Rose: “Dad, can you send an imprint of a kiss by V Mail?”
  Charlie: “Very disconcerting to machine designed to transfer letter to film. I humbly suggest you substitute words. I salute my brave warrior with a kiss.”
  - [04:55]

3. The Kidnapping Unfolds

• Rose leaves to mail a letter, promising to return quickly, but is abducted after hailing a cab outside the bank that is subsequently robbed.

• Charlie finds a string of coral beads at the scene—beads he recognizes from Rose’s necklace—triggering his concern.

• Police Captain Flannery explains the hold-up but assures Charlie he will do everything to get Rose back.

  Charlie: “First time in humble career find emotions stronger than detecting instincts.”
  - [09:16]

4. Family’s Distress and Police Procedure

• [09:50] The family waits anxiously for news. Charlie stays up all night.

• A ransom note demanding $10,000 for Rose’s release is delivered.

  Tommy: “Gosh, dad, what’s happened to her?”
  Charlie: “Honorable sister got in cab used for hold up by mistake. Then this is a ransom note? Yes, son.”
  - [13:08]

5. The Conspiracy: Criminals Plot and Police Counterplan

• Scenes shift to the criminals’ hideout, where Rose is held, and tensions run high among the gang.

• The criminals debate their options; holding Charlie Chan’s daughter is a dangerous move.

• Meanwhile, Charlie, Captain Flannery, the cab driver Russik, and the bank president Vaughn concoct a plan to work with and outmaneuver the kidnappers and robbers.

  Criminals: “So of all the dames in the world, we got to pick up Chan's daughter.”
  - [14:56]

6. Climax: The Trap and the Rescue

• The plot converges at a remote "hick bank," where a planned payoff is a ruse to capture the criminals and rescue Rose.

• Russik, the cab driver, risks his life to assist in the plan, while Charlie and Tommy silently tail the criminals back to the hideout.

• Using quick thinking and a handful of firecrackers (previously confiscated from Tommy), Charlie creates chaos outside the hideout, enabling Rose to turn the tables on her captor, Molly, and escape unharmed.

  Charlie: “Correct. Firecrackers taken from number one son which were to be used in worthy cause.” - [25:02]

7. Resolution and Family Reunion

• The gang is subdued, and Rose is rescued, unharmed. The police arrive to arrest Molly.

• The family reconvenes at home, sharing tea and reflecting on the harrowing ordeal.

  Charlie: “Fate turns on small wheels. Consider good fortunate beginning when beads were torn from worthy sister’s throat by evil one.” - [26:05]

• In a twist, Rose reveals that she intentionally dropped her beads, inheriting a little of her father’s cunning.

  Rose: “Oh, gosh. Your daughter’s inherited a little of her father’s ability. I dropped those beads deliberately.”
  - [26:09]

• Charlie vows to use his bank reward to buy war bonds—one for each firecracker exploded, blending personal triumph with patriotic duty.

  Charlie: “With share of reward from bank, will purchase bond for each firecracker exploded. Gosh, dad. Then this war bond drive will really go over with a bang.”
  - [26:22]

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Police-Family Balance:

  Charlie: “First time in humble career find emotions stronger than detecting instincts.”
  - [09:16]

• On Clever Parenting:

  Charlie: “Suggest you retain temper and go to kitchen for usual snacks before retiring.”
  - [06:40]

• Family Humor:

  Tommy: “Someday I'm going to lose my temper with that dame.”
  Charlie: “Suggest you retain temper and go to kitchen...”
  - [06:36]

• Patriotic Resolve:

  Charlie: “With share of reward from bank, will purchase bond for each firecracker exploded.”
  - [26:22]

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Host Commentary & Listener Feedback

Host Reflections – Adam Graham

• [34:24] Adam praises the episode as a family-based story with less focus on sleuthing and more on unity and character relationships, calling it “a fun episode.”

• He laments the loss of other Mystery Playhouse episodes and expresses fondness for radio’s behind-the-scenes glimpses in the episode’s latter teaser.

  “This is such a great setup for Mystery and you've got some radio biz stuff going on. I Wish I knew what happened...”
  - [34:24]

• Provides historical notes about the later, incomplete American Charlie Chan series.

Listener Feedback – Recent Comments

• Responds to a question about why a Honolulu detective is assisting on other cases, joking that “the movie Beverly Hills Cop with Eddie Murphy might explain that premise.”

  - [36:22]

• Shoutout to Patreon supporter Martin.

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• [01:57] – Adam Graham introduces the episode
• [03:13] – Episode proper begins in Charlie Chan’s home
• [07:44] – Rose leaves, is soon abducted after a hold-up
• [09:16] – Charlie learns of the kidnapping, emotions take over
• [13:06] – Ransom note arrives at the Chan home
• [14:38] – Criminals discuss the next steps with Rose as hostage
• [17:53] – The cab driver and criminals go to the planned bank payoff
• [22:05] – Charlie and Tommy approach the hideout for the rescue
• [24:31] – The resolution: Rose freed, gang subdued, family reunited
• [26:05] – Final family moments, reflections, and jokes about dropped beads and firecrackers

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Episode Tone and Style

Lighthearted yet suspenseful, combining the affectionate banter of a close-knit family with the tension of a classic mystery. Interspersed with gentle humor, British-tinged wisdom from Charlie Chan, and an underlying message of unity and patriotism appropriate to the era.

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Closing Thoughts

"The Pearl of Great Price" stands out as an uplifting, family-centric mystery whose suspense is rooted in relatable anxieties and clever resourcefulness, not just hardboiled investigation. The interplay between Chan, his children, and the supporting characters provides warmth and comic relief amid the tension, while the subplot about war bonds grounds the story in its historical moment.

Recommended for: Fans of Golden Age radio, family mysteries, and those who enjoy detective stories with heart and humor.

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Next Episode Preview:
Adam announces next week’s shift from American episodes to Australian-produced Charlie Chan stories, and reads listener mail, inviting feedback and support.

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For more classic detective episodes and to support the podcast, visit greatdetectives.net.

Transcript

[A]

What do you think makes the perfect snack? Hmm, it's gotta be when I'm really craving it and it's convenient. Could you be more specific? When it's cravinient. Okay. Like a freshly baked cookie made with real butter, available right down the street at a.m. p.m. Or a savory breakfast sandwich I can grab in just a second at a.m. p.m. I'm seeing a pattern here.

[B]

Well, yeah, we're talking about what I.

[A]

Crave, which is anything from AM pm.

[C]

What more could you want? Stop by AM PM where the snacks and drinks are perfectly craveable and convenient. That's cravenience. AM P M. Too much good stuff.

[B]

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[C]

N rakuten.com Sam.

[B]

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. If you're enjoying the podcast, follow us using your favorite podcast software and you can become one of our ongoing Patreon supporters for as little as $2 per month at patreon.greatdetectives.net well, I don't have a precise date for this week's episode of Charlie Chan. However, I was able to locate a synopsis for the first episode, which aired the week before the one we played last week. And this isn't the same story, so this aired after that sometime during the summer of 1944. Here is the pearl of great price Price.

[C]

Good evening. This is Sergeant X filling in for Peter Laurie. When danger threatens any one of her broods, even the placid and uninspired mother hen can become an avenging demon. Purposeful and unmindful of her own safety. And in man, too, this instinct to preserve one's own is strong indeed. As you will hear tonight in the Mystery Playhouse. Tonight, the Mystery Playhouse is proud to play host. To an ardent stamp collector. A proud and loving father and master detective, the incomparable Charlie Chan. The record of Mr. Chan's achievements in crime detection, you know. Is equaled only by his reputation as a family man. A role he much prefers, by the way. However hard Charlie has tried. He's never been able completely to retire and live the life of a simple, home loving man. Take, for instance, one night when he was seated in the living room. Poring over his beloved stamp collection. His daughter Rose was writing a letter to her boyfriend overseas with the Navy. And Tommy, his number one son, was expected home from a war bond rally.

[A]

Dad, can you send an imprint of a kiss by V Mail? Rouge.

[C]

Very disconcerting to machine designed to transfer letter to film. I humbly suggest you substitute words. I salute my brave warrior with a kiss.

[A]

That sounds silly, dad. I'll just say, consider yourself kissed, you mutt.

[C]

Is not mutt American slang. Foot dog.

[A]

Well, sure. He's in the navy. Is me. So he's an old sea dog.

[C]

Would appear seagull more appropriate for a navy flying man.

[A]

I can't say consider yourself kissed, you old girl.

[C]

If boyfriend to receive letter from number one daughter before his return home. Suggest choice of suitable epithet and letter. Sealed and mailed.

[A]

Okay, dad. Hiya, dad. Hiya, Sis.

[C]

Neighbors surely must appreciate effort of number one son in keeping them from quiet evening.

[A]

I'm sorry, dad. He's the noisiest kid I know.

[C]

Kid. Okay, Grandma. Son, you brought newspaper?

[A]

As requested, dad.

[C]

Paper. The newspaper. Oh, I'm sorry, Dad.

[A]

I meant to, but I. Well, I. I can run down now. I'll be right back.

[C]

Wait, son. Take sister's letter. Oh, damn.

[A]

Oh, now, don't do me any favors. Besides, I want to make sure this letter reaches Jimmy. And it doesn't stay in your pocket. So I'll mail it myself. What's more, dad, if you want to read your paper tonight, I'll see that you get it.

[C]

I suppose you'll never forget anything.

[A]

Not when it's important.

[C]

Oh, is that so? Please suggest that family storm be deferred. Thunder outside of more immediate concern. Possible rain coming since newsstand some distance away. Suggest number one daughter. Hurry.

[A]

Okay, dad. It won't be long. And don't worry if it rains I'll take a cab. Be right back.

[C]

Someday I'm going to lose my temper with that dame.

[A]

And then I.

[C]

Yes, Dan, Suggest you retain temper and go to kitchen for usual snacks before retiring.

[A]

All right, Dan.

[C]

Fully appreciate now burden of Honorable wife with 11 sources of.

[A]

What happened? Sounded like shot. Oh, dad, did I scare you?

[C]

Did not soothe me. Number one son carries gun, perhaps? Oh, no, dad. Just some firecrackers I was taking out of my pocket. A torpedo dropped to the floor. Firecrackers? Hardly pleasing for one your age, huh? Oh, gosh, dad, you got me wrong. I was just holding them for the neighborhood kids so they wouldn't hurt themselves. They were using them to whip up.

[A]

The bond sales in Chinatown.

[C]

With number one son holding same fear greatly. Honorable mother will have no home to return to. Give rest of same to me, please. Oh, okay, dad. But if they don't sell a lot of bonds, those kids will have your scalp. Here's your paper, miss. Kind of wet.

[A]

Sorry. That's okay. Is there a taxi cab around?

[C]

Yeah, cab in front of the bank there.

[A]

Hey, cab. I'll take a selfie in it.

[C]

Sorry, kid, my cab's taken.

[A]

Yeah, you can't stay in here. I've hired this cab.

[C]

Help me.

[A]

Help me. Hey, look, Molly.

[C]

Comes a bankrupt.

[A]

Let me out of here. In the cab.

[C]

Let go.

[A]

My feet. You've broken them. That's tough. Okay, Mugsy, here comes Chuck.

[C]

Get going, Mugsy.

[A]

Hey, who's this dame? I don't know, but she's coming along. She's seen too much.

[C]

Hey, you. There's an investigation going on here. Move on. A thousand pardons, Captain Flannery, but I, too, am investigating. Well, Charlie Chan, how are you? Disturbed, Captain. Disturbed. Tell me, why are you here? I'll hold up at the back. Pretty routine stuff, Chan. Guard shot. Nothing that would interest you. What are you looking at? Notice small coral beads in hand. Oh, these? Pick them up in the gutter. Why the interest? Believe small beads came from necklace worn by number one daughter, Rose. Yes, she failed to return from posting letter. Beads suggest possible harm befell her. Hey, wait a minute. The newsboy said a Chinese girl got in the cat. Age seldom gives credit to eyes of youth. Tell me, was car followed? Yes, Chan. One of our squad cars gave it a chase. They got away by beating a freight train to a crossing. We're sure one of our bullets hit the back of the car? Fervently Trust same bullet did not go further. Danger to daughter. Almost too much to bear. Easy now, Chan. You go home. I'LL get Rose back for you or turn in my badge. Thank you. First time in humble career find emotions stronger than detecting instincts. Dad, you've got a cop this pacing up and down.

[A]

Well, you haven't been off your feet in 22 hours. Dad, did you hear me?

[C]

Forgive me, son. Ears open but mind closed.

[A]

Well, will you eat something?

[C]

A bowl of soup, a little rice, anything? No, thank you, son. Thoughts are not a food. They dwell on number one daughter. Gosh, Dad, I shouldn't have let her go. I should have gone myself. Ungrateful honorable mother knows nothing of misfortune.

[A]

Oh, I'll get it, dad. It's good news.

[C]

I'm sure of it. Hello?

[A]

Oh, yes, he's here. Captain Flannery. Yes, you have? Oh, oh, that's all right. I'll tell him. Dad, they found the cab in a ditch.

[C]

In ditch, you mean.

[A]

Take it easy, dad.

[C]

It was empty. Looked as though it had been driven there deliberately to hide it. It had a bullet hole in the back. I must go, dad. Dad, we'd like to do the rest. Captain Flannery has surely located Ona.

[A]

Captain Flannery?

[C]

How do you know no Captain Flannery?

[A]

Well, I'll go with you, dad.

[C]

No, son. Remain here close to phone in case there is further news of s. This is Charlie Chan. He wants to ask you a couple of questions. Look, I ain't denying it was my cab, but I don't know nothing about the hold up. I loaned the hack to my brother. I had to. The kid was wild. Only way I could keep him straight was to let him drive the cab once in a while so he could make some money. Where does Wild Brother make headquarters, huh? How do you reach the punk when you want him? Why, I don't. You see what well, that is. There's a cigar store and he outskirts a town. Sometimes I can get him there, but not now. I try. Well, you better keep trying. You don't want a murder rap tossed at you. I tell you, I mixed up an old Robinson. It was your cab, but. But I tell you, I have news. Please, Captain Flannery. Mr. Russick, should you contact Wild Brother, inform him, please. I'm holding him responsible for safety of number one daughter. Rose. Huh? Your daughter. You heard him. Rose Chan was in your cab when your kid brother pulled that bank job. She hasn't returned since. Boy, no wonder you're so interested in this case. Hey, don't look at me like that, Mr. Chan. Honest, I ain't never been mixed up in no robins and killings get going, Russik. And find your brother. Yeah, yeah, sure. I'll do my best. You can bet on that.

[A]

Yes, sir.

[C]

Really, I sure will. What do you think, Shan? Is he in on it or not? Think not too surprised at mention of daughter. Was it wise to mention her? Wouldn't she be safer if they didn't know who she is? Believe unknown Chinese girl might become liability to men in hiding. Therefore kill her. But daughter asset for bargaining. Then you feel pretty sure their next move will be to contact you. Hope such is case. Return home now to await developments.

[A]

Oh, there you are, dad. Gosh, where have you been?

[C]

Taking first steps on path that leads to honorable sister.

[A]

Gosh, I'm sure glad you got back.

[C]

This was stuck under the door, but when I looked out, no one was there. Handwritten note, unwrapping paper. It's a demand for money for sister's release.

[A]

Gosh, dad, what's happened to her?

[C]

Honorable sister got in cab used for hold up by mistake. Then this is a ransom note? Yes, son. Gee, $10,000.

[A]

Where'll you get it?

[C]

Here's legitimate question. Long standing friends may help. But first we'll attempt to contact Mr. Vaughn, president of bank which was robbed. Oh, we'll answer. Do Please phone, Mr. Vaughn.

[A]

Yes, dad.

[C]

Captain Flannery, glad you're here. Chen Rustic. Just came back to the station house. Said he was sure he could locate his brother. Good. Also have news for you. Ransom note delivered here demanding $10,000 for release of daughter. $10,000?

[A]

Dad, I got Mr. Vaughan on the phone.

[C]

Coming, son. Hey. Now look, Chan, you're not going to pay any ransom while I'm on the force. Give me time. I suggest good friend retained shirt. We'll only use banker to divide and conquer enemies. The use of cab driver rustic. What do you mean? Listen to phone conversation. Hello? Hello, Mr. Vaughn. Regret delay? No. Have not yet apprehended criminals. Hope to do so before night is out. Greatly need your worthy assistance. Also cooperation of some suburban bank. Owner of cab involved will also help. Listen closely, please to most dangerous plan for releasing daughter, who at moment is in hands of desperate criminals. That must be set.

[A]

Won't you please take these handcuffs off? It's uncomfortable being locked to this chair.

[C]

Don't move, Ms. Chan. They won't hurt. Besides, his hideout wasn't built for your comfort. Oh, Molly, you sure you left that note where our old man will find?

[A]

Yeah, Chucky. Yeah, I slipped it under the door just like you said.

[C]

Said I wish they could be sure.

[A]

I'm telling you.

[C]

Yeah, like you told me you could handle a getaway. So of all the dames in the world, we got to pick up Chan's daughter.

[A]

That's bad, huh? At least we're getting 10 grand for her, ain't we? Did you pull off the bank stick up? No. You bumped off a guard and got no toe.

[C]

Shut it.

[A]

The kid must have. It could be my dad. Charlie Chan, open that door. Ch, will you stop being so jumping. Okay, Chuck.

[C]

Hi, Muggy. Hello, Molly.

[A]

Hello, kid.

[C]

I got news.

[A]

What's up?

[C]

It was my brother wanting to see me. All right. He's got a proposition I don't trust.

[A]

Pipe down, Chuck. I want to hear the Kid. What's the proposition?

[C]

Look, Molly, I'm not.

[A]

Quiet. Go on, kid.

[C]

Well, my brother picked up two old gents in his cab, see? They're on their way to a hick bank about five miles from here. My brother's got all the dopes. Oh, what? They're going to meet a guy there who's going to open up this here bank. I'm still listening. Okay, get this payoff. They're going there to get that 10 grand we're asking for this Chan to have on a level. They couldn't open Vaughan's bank on a kind of time locks or something. Sounds to me like a frame up. Now wait a minute. My brother ain't no stool for the cops. I tell you, he picked up these two gents cruising.

[A]

It could happen, Chuck.

[C]

But it didn't. Why is your brother playing ball with us all of a sudden? He's getting smart for a change. Beginning to realize he ain't gonna make a million driving a hack. Yeah, it took him a long time.

[A]

Wait a minute, Chuck. If I heard Rustic tell this himself, I'd know. Where is he, kid?

[C]

At the cigar store waiting for you.

[A]

I think. I'll talk.

[C]

Just a minute, Molly. Suppose this is a trap.

[A]

We still got Chan's kid, ain't we? Muggsy? Keep your eye on her till we get back.

[C]

Molly, I say we play this safe. I want 10 grand for that dame.

[A]

And I want 10 times that from the Hicks.

[C]

Chad, I think that's the car. Now get at it. Splendid. Mr. Russick. Wait. Man has left the car. The woman's parking it. Hey, the boat's supposed to meet me in my cab outside. Suspect only one will accompany you to bank. Other will return to hiding place to await outcome. If anything wrong, fear for safety of number one daughter and your brother. I think you're right, Chad, look. Man already in cab. Woman on Way to enter scene. We telephone number one son to follow gang car back to hiding place. Okay. I better go out before he gets suspicious. Much depends on you, Mr. Essek. Remember carefully all instructions speak with caution. Don't worry, Chad. I will. I'll be here. Well, Chuck, like I've been telling you, o', Molly, it looks like a lead pipe cinched to me a lot better than holding chance daughter for a measly ten grand.

[A]

Chance daughter? What's she got to do with this setup, Rustic?

[C]

Quit stalling, folks. One guy in my cab called the other one, Vaughan. He's the president of bank. You stuck up while you were using my kid. That's what you say. Yeah, and so did the cops who shot at you when they put that bullet hole in the body of my hand.

[A]

That still don't put Chan's daughter in the picture.

[C]

Russik. The guy did that. He's the big shot at his sick bank. And he told Vaughn he was helping him because he was afraid of chance. Okay. So how come you didn't drive them out to this hick bank if that's where they were heading? They wouldn't do that till 11:30. So I drove him to Chad's house. By the way, it's getting late in that base. A good four miles from here.

[A]

You really like this deal, huh?

[C]

Sure. I think it's a setup for real. Go.

[A]

And you'll do the driving?

[C]

Yes. I want to earn my 50% cut. 50%?

[A]

Let him dream, Rustic. If it don't come off, you and your kid brother both lose.

[C]

We all do.

[A]

Not like you, Rustic. You see, Chuck here handles the sawed off real nice. If the cops are at the hick.

[C]

Bank, your head gets blowed off.

[A]

Yeah. Of course, I won't be there to have the pleasure because I'm not going with you. Just you and Chuck. I'll be back at the hideout. If Chuck don't come back by midnight, little brother gets it, too, Right between his baby blue eyes.

[C]

You still want to play bank robber, Russie? Well, sure. Why shouldn't I?

[A]

Okay. You haven't any way of contacting Mr. Chan, have you?

[C]

I wouldn't know him if I fell over him.

[A]

Yeah, Too bad somebody can't tell Chan.

[C]

Tell him what?

[A]

That if this is a frame up, his daughter gets it, too. You see?

[C]

Yeah, but that's his worry. Let's get started. It's almost 11:30, huh? Oh, yeah. Hey, Molly, this little guy ain't on a level. He's got more guts than his kid brother.

[A]

Be yourself. What choice has he got now? Okay, you two better get going. Be seeing you, Russik.

[C]

That is Russic. That stone building ahead must be. Yeah. See, there they are. That looks like Ward. And there's the other guy. Yeah, they're just going in. This begins to look good. Should I pull up? Are you nuts? If we case the block first. What? Go around the block. Slow, chump. But ain't it easier if we walk in while they're busy getting the money? We'll be there. Do like I say. Okay. Pull up right in front of the door. Right in front? That's right, sir. I can cover you in the entrance while you go in. Me? You heard me, Russie. Get going. Right now. Walk right up to the door and stand beside it. I'll keep you covered with a sawed off. Okay. Wait, wait.

[A]

Hold it.

[C]

Rusty.

[A]

Grab that gun.

[C]

Cops, huh? You asked for it, Russic. You all right, Russic? Yeah, his shot. Mystery. Well, you won't be bothered by him anymore. He's dead. Where's Charlie Chan? He's trailing a day evil woman has gone inside house. Pray that trailing her proves fruitful in quest for honorable sister. Park car here, son. All right, dad. Be quiet. Come, let us investigate. Okay, dad.

[A]

Say, dad, look. That window on the side, there's a light.

[C]

Approach Sim cautiously. Can see honorable sister inside. He's handcuffed. A chair. Gee, dad, what are we gonna do?

[A]

Should I take the car and get help?

[C]

No, wait, son. Have planned. Go to car, drive up to front of door with much clatter.

[A]

Okay, dad.

[C]

Humble father will remain here to make sure no harm befalls honorable sister.

[A]

So, Ms. Chan, if rustic is on the square, we'll leave you here tied up for your smart old man to find. And what happens if he. If he. You mean if Russik double crosses us? Look, if Chuck don't show up by midnight, and that ain't far off, I'm sending you to what you call your honorable ancestors.

[C]

Hey, Molly, you. You won't kill her, will you?

[A]

Don't you worry your little head, Mugsy. You won't know a thing about it.

[C]

What does that mean?

[A]

Are you kidding? If Chuck don't get back, you get bumped off too. Now stop worrying.

[C]

Honest, Molly, I'm telling you, my butt is no stupid.

[A]

We'll see, kid.

[C]

See, Molly. Maybe the cab broke down on the way back. Or maybe.

[A]

Hey. Yes, Chuck.

[C]

I told you they'd pull it off.

[A]

And get back none too soon neither. What's that? It must have tailed it. I'm getting out of Here.

[C]

I ain't got no ride.

[A]

Keep away from that door. Don't open it. I'll cover the window. Damn. Maybe that'll hold him.

[C]

Yeah, lucky some.

[A]

We ain't got a chance.

[C]

I'm gone.

[A]

I said keep that door shut. I'll tear you out for us. Open that door, would you? Shot him. He's outside. He'll be killed. No, Water's yellow. I'm fighting out, see? It's no use. Your guns empty. You better surrender. I only got another rod. Heaven. Unlock the door. If I unlock it, they'll blast me. You open it, they'll recognize you and won't shoot. I can't have handcuffs, remember? Okay, okay, I'll take them off. Want to get out there and stop them. There now they're off. Now get out there. Hey, what are you doing? Seeing how you look with the handcuffs on. Now stand there where you'll be safe. Oh, dad.

[C]

I'm happy to find pearl of great price unharmed.

[A]

Boy, am I glad to see you. Are you all right, sis? Oh, yeah, Tommy, I'm okay with. Hey, where are the others?

[C]

What others, daughter?

[A]

Why the police who surrounded the house?

[C]

No police, only humble father and brother.

[A]

What say I oughta.

[C]

No, you don't.

[A]

Hey, how did the handcuffs get on you? Ask your smart sister. Huh?

[C]

Oh, I get it.

[A]

How? But dad, where did all the shots come from? You. You hardly ever carry a gun.

[C]

Is correct. Did not do so on this occasion.

[A]

Say, what are you giving us? I suppose you made all that racket.

[C]

Out there with firecrackers again. Correct. Firecrackers taken from number one son which were to be used in worthy cause.

[A]

What do you mean, dad?

[C]

No questions now, please. First must attend wounded brother of Mr. Russik, then deliver evil lady to police. Explanations will come at home.

[A]

Some more tea, dad?

[C]

Palate says yes, stomach says no. Gee, Captain Flannery sure was pleased when we turned over that Molly dame, huh, dad?

[A]

He thought you were great on this case.

[C]

I'm deeply grateful to number one son for assistance. It was nothing. Also deeply grateful for brave assistance of Mr. Rusic and Mr. Vaughn. And don't forget, sis here.

[A]

Oh, cut it out, Tom. No, I mean it.

[C]

She was wonderful, wasn't she, dad? Yes, son, how wonderful. I did not realize until I thought I might lose her. Fate turns on small wheels. Consider good fortunate beginning when beads were torn from worthy sister's throat by evil one.

[A]

Oh, but dad, those beads. Beads weren't torn.

[C]

Explain, please.

[A]

Oh, gosh. Your daughter's inherited a little of her father's ability. I dropped those beads deliberately.

[C]

Number one daughter causes humble father deprived.

[A]

Thanks, dad. But tell me, what about those firecrackers?

[C]

In case of firecrackers. Must admit fortune smiled kindly on humble father. Took them from honorable brother who held same and safe keeping for neighborhood children. Yes, yes. The kids were going to use them to sell war bonds. Well, I guess they won't be too disappointed. Chinatown will sell its quota without fireworks. Yes, son, and humble father will do his bit. With share of reward from bank. We'll purchase bond for each firecracker exploded. Gosh, dad. Then this war bond dry. Will really go over with a bang. Well, Charlie, you did it again. But I guess it doesn't hurt to have a smart daughter around, huh? Certainly been fine to have you with us tonight. And I hope we can tear you away again from the family hearth. To say nothing of your stamp collection real soon. Right about now, Mr. Laurie, if he were here, would invite you all to the green room to eavesdrop on the rehearsal for our next Mystery Playhouse production. And who am I to be different? Follow me, please. Come.

[A]

Yes, darling. Don't be so self conscious. I never said any such thing about the corn that comes out of your trip. Writer.

[C]

Tailor made for you, my precious.

[A]

Oh, no, you're thinking of the precious. Mr. Warren, our leading man. The ambulatory werewolf of the mega cycles.

[C]

Don't be bitter, Bernhardt. Jeff will write you fat aparts when you can handle them.

[A]

I was playing leads when you were a Sandy.

[C]

Now lay off Alma, will you? Look, you've all worked together so long, you've got your private lives mixed up with the characters you're supposed to be playing. Three minutes there. Time, Jeff. Okay, okay. Check Master control to see if we're getting the air on time. I'll check, but it looks like we got the channel on the nose. Okay, Ed. Now, as you were saying. I was saying that if you can't keep your petty jealousies outside the studio, I'll have a new cast.

[A]

What about our public, Jeff? They won't like that.

[C]

Listen, they'll explode your irreplaceable illusions like a toy balloon. And what about our contract? Read the cancellation clause and don't start anything you can't finish. What about our subordinate characters, Jeff? Are we also on the griddle? Yes, yes, Kent. You can quit wandering around the studio making passes at every Angenu I cast on this show. And how you pick him. Oh, lay off the wise tracks, Kent, or your reputation as the ham that dies a thousand deaths will catch up. With you.

[A]

What about Mary Smith? Jeff, haven't you any unkind words for our honey haired heroine of tonight's masterpiece of mayhem?

[C]

No, I have not. Mary at least tries to play her part. In spite of Warren's wolfing and your burn.

[A]

I resent that. What she and Warren does is no concern.

[C]

Now lay off, Alma. In this studio, I'm the boss. I'll make the wisecracks and I'll do the telling outside. You can beat each other's brains out for all I care.

[A]

Jeff. I can take care of myself.

[C]

Not when it comes to war. In the wonder man.

[A]

Mary, don't worry about me. Jeff, down. Can't.

[C]

Look, Mary, just play your part. You're new to radio, but you're good. Don't let these technically perfect mike monkeys tell you differently.

[A]

Yes, dear. And don't fall for Jeff's private lessons in emotional acting.

[C]

Yeah, Mary, beware. Take care. We're an odious aggregation.

[A]

And directors never, never collect etchings or go to Atlantic City.

[C]

It abstracts this season, darling. One minute to go, Jeff. Okay, now, Cass, there's nothing the matter with this show that you can't remedy if you just forget your personal differences for the next 30 minutes. Now snap out of it and let's go. How about the sound? That shooting spot in the phone boat? That's okay, but keep that gun away from the sun on Mike or you'll blow us off the air. Okay. And Mr. T, thanks for standing up for Mary. Well, she's a good kid, Pop. Why doesn't she let on that she's your daughter? Oh, she wants to make her own way in radio. Not that I could do much to help. Well, she will, Pop. 20 seconds airtime, Jeff. Okay, gang, I'm going in the control room. Stand by and make it good. Okay, here comes the last scene, Ed. So far, so good, Jeff.

[A]

Hello, Blake Detective Agency.

[C]

Hiya, sweet. Now listen.

[A]

Oh, yes, darling. Where are you phoning from?

[C]

From a phone booth at a corner drugstore. Now, listen. Pretty good show so far, Jeff. Yeah. Cut the volume on that control room speaker.

[A]

Do them rather well.

[C]

Okay, Jeff, I thought you wanted to really hear this. Last thing. I do, but not that badly. That's better. That lacing you gave the cash sure snapped him out of it, Jeff. Yeah, but there's too much bad blood out here. Going to have to make some changes. That shooting spot is coming up. Watch it. I've just found out who killed our client.

[A]

Who was it?

[C]

None other than our old friend.

[A]

I'm shot. I. I am Shot.

[C]

Help. Somebody. Somebody help me.

[A]

Pop, what's the matter? What's the matter?

[C]

Hey, they played that like they meant to. That.

[A]

Yes.

[C]

The script only called for one shot. Yeah, Pop's nervous tonight. Probably pulled the trigger twice.

[A]

What happened to you?

[C]

Say, what's going out there in the studio? Pop didn't fire that shot. He's over by the curtain in front of the phone booth.

[A]

He lying on the floor of the ice house.

[C]

Ed, cut the show. I'm going out there to see what goes. Tell Master control to pipe in the standby orchestra. Well, well. Looks like actors are expendable too, doesn't it? This one certainly died in the line of duty. Right on the radio studio, script in hand. Probably the best scene he ever played. So much for snide remark. Why don't you plan to be in your seats for our next performance when big town Steve Wilson, fighting newspaper editor that he is, becomes involved in murder in the radio studio. Peter Laurie is our regular mystery master of ceremonies and he'll be back on the job soon. But for now, this is Sergeant X closing the doors of the Mystery Playhouse and saying for him, good night, sleep tight. This is the Armed Forces Radio.

[A]

What do you think makes the perfect snack? Hmm, it's gotta be when I'm really craving it and it's convenient. Could you be more specific? When it's cravenient? Okay, like a freshly baked cookie made with real butter, available right down the street at a.m. p.m. Or a savory breakfast sandwich I can grab in just a second at a.m. p.m. I'm seeing a pattern here.

[B]

Well, yeah, we're talking about what I.

[A]

Crave, which is anything from am pm.

[C]

What more could you want? Stop by AM PM where the snacks and drinks are perfectly craveable and convenient. That's cravenience am PM Too much good stuff.

[B]

Welcome back. I have a special place in my heart for this episode. No great sleuthing, but as an episode promoting national unity and showing Charlie Chan and his dedication to his family with both their strong points as well as a nice little bit of bickering, this is a fun episode. I do have to say that the teaser is one of the most tantalizing that I've ever heard on Mystery Playhouse. But sadly, the episode advertised is missing along with every other episode from July 1942 on to 1948, which is really sad. If someone found the script for that episode, I would love to hear a re performance. This is such a great setup for Mystery and you've got some radio biz stuff going on. I Wish I knew what happened Now. I should note regarding Charlie Chan that there was one more American Charlie chan series in 1947-48. Santos Ortega, who starred in so many New York based detective series, helmed the incomparable Charlie Chan. Sadly, it was a serial show and we don't have any complete stories. So next week we'll turn our attention to Down Under. Well, listener comments and feedback. And we have some comments regarding episode 4786. Swallow69 writes over on Spotify. I'm sure I missed the reason, but why is a Honolulu detective helping another series? And David actually responded, the movie Beverly Hills Cop with Eddie Murphy might explain that premise.

[C]

Maybe.

[B]

Well, I have never heard the Axel Foley to Charlie Chan connection, but now I've heard it. I cannot unhear it. Appreciate the comment, David, who writes also that I enjoyed this episode and I will be back for more. I look forward to it. Now it's time to thank our Patreon supporter of the day. And I want to thank Martin, patreon Supporter since March 2024, currently supporting the podcast at the Master detective level of $15 or more per month. Thanks so much for your support, Martin. And that will do it for today. If you're enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software. And if you're enjoying this podcast on YouTube, be sure to like the video, subscribe to the channel and mark the notification bell. We will be back next Tuesday with another episode of Charlie Chan. But join us back here tomorrow for Broadway's My Beat, where?

[C]

All right. You the lady over there, Magaman? Uh huh. We want you to be sure, ma'.

[A]

Am. I'm sure.

[C]

Well, no, it's not my sister. That way out, ma'. Am. Now the gentleman. My wife was blonde. Is this your wife? Take it easy. I haven't seen Aggie in three years. This girl is five six, weight, 124, approximately 22 years of age. Aggie's gonna turn up here one of these days. I'll make book on it. She ain't done it yet. This ain't Aggie. Through that door over there please. You're next, lady.

[B]

Hey, I hope you'll be with us then. In the meantime, send your comments to [e-mail] 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.

[A]

What do you think makes the perfect snack? Hmm, it's got to be when I'm really craving it and it's convenient. Could you be more specific when it's cravenient? Okay, like a freshly baked cookie made with real butter available right down the street at a.m. p.m. Or a savory breakfast sandwich I can grab in just a second at a.m. pM. I'm seeing a pattern here.

[B]

Well yeah, we're talking about what I.

[A]

Crave, which is anything from AM pm.

[C]

What more could you want? Stop by AM PM where the snacks and drinks are perfectly craveable and convenient. That's cravenience AM PM Too much Good stuff.

[A]

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