Charlie Chan: Colonel's Son is a Murder Suspect/Simmon's Confrontation About Identity (EP4776)

Summary

Podcast Summary: "Colonel's Son is a Murder Suspect/Simmon's Confrontation About Identity" (EP4776)

Release Date: August 12, 2025
Podcast: The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio | Daily Mystery Dramas
Host: Adam Graham

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Introduction

In Episode 4776 of The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio, hosted by Adam Graham, listeners are immersed in a riveting installment of the Charlie Chan series titled "Colonel's Son is a Murder Suspect/Simmon's Confrontation About Identity." This episode delves deep into the intricacies of a compelling murder mystery set in San Francisco, featuring the renowned Inspector Charlie Chan as he navigates through deceit, hidden identities, and unexpected twists.

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Plot Overview

The episode centers around the mysterious murder of Colonel Willoughby, an elderly man found dead in the hallway of Mr. Blake's residence. Inspector Charlie Chan, accompanied by Inspector Duff and other key characters, investigates the circumstances surrounding the Colonel's death. The initial suspicion falls on Simmons, Mr. Blake's butler, due to his evasive behavior. However, Chan is convinced of Simmons' innocence and believes the truth lies deeper within the Colonel's past and his elusive son.

As the investigation unfolds, Inspector Duff reveals a crucial discovery: the missing son, Douglas Willoughby Jr., masquerading as Jim Watson, is the key to unraveling the mystery. The inspectors grapple with the implications of this revelation, including the safety of Evelyn, a woman connected to the case, and the potential threat posed by the real murderer who may target Douglas if his true identity is exposed.

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Key Developments

1. Identification of Douglas Willoughby Jr. (05:08)
   Inspector Duff asserts, “Mr. Jim Watson is none other than the Colonel's lost son” (05:08). This revelation shifts the focus of the investigation, suggesting a motive rooted in familial ties and past grievances.

2. Suspicion and Safety Concerns (06:27 - 07:24)
   The team debates the best course of action to protect Douglas while ensuring that the true murderer is apprehended. Inspector Duff emphasizes the necessity of keeping Douglas in jail for his safety, stating, “the murderer who so brutally cut down his aged father will not hesitate to kill the son” (06:27).

3. Discovery of Newspaper Clippings (14:16 - 14:43)
   A breakthrough occurs when Charlie Chan uncovers newspaper clippings revealing Colonel Willoughby’s inspection of the Birmingham Volunteers alongside Sergeant Major Simmons. This connection implicates Simmons in unexpected ways, deepening the mystery.

4. Simmons' Confrontation and Revelation (21:55 - 22:37)
   The climax intensifies as Inspector Duff and Charlie Chan confront Simmons. Through strategic questioning, they uncover Simmons’ link to a past military order and the true motive behind Colonel Willoughby’s murder. Simmons admits, “I was walking down Market street one day...” (23:37), shedding light on his actions and the Colonel’s history.

5. Final Twist and Cliffhanger (25:06 - 27:06)
   Just as the inspectors believe they’re nearing the truth, Simmons is fatally wounded before he can divulge critical information. This abrupt turn leaves the investigators with more questions, setting the stage for the next episode.

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Notable Quotes

• Inspector Duff on Suspicions:
  “I am certain of it. Mr. Jim Watson is none other than the Colonel's lost son.” (05:08)

• Evelyn on Intuition:
  “I suppose you'll laugh at my woman's intuition, but that's what I felt.” (05:16)

• Inspector Duff on Murderer's Motive:
  “To answer that question as to why a human being does things contrary to natural impulses. ... Only young Willoughby can answer that question.” (12:35)

• Charlie Chan on Investigation Technique:
  “I wasn't watching, particularly at the moment. What did he do?” (05:33)
  And later,
  “All right, now, what papers would they be and how big a package?” (08:07)

• Inspector Duff on Strategy:
  “The murderer always returns to the scene of his crime.” (17:10)

• Inspector Duff on Outcome Hope:
  “Do not worry, Sir Reginald. We shall catch him.” (16:48)

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Host Commentary and Listener Feedback

After the dramatic conclusion of the episode, Adam Graham provides insightful commentary:

• Recap and Analysis (27:53 - 31:12):
  Graham highlights the deliberate pacing of the investigation, noting the balance between proactive detective work and unforeseen dangers. He appreciates Charlie Chan's proactive measures to safeguard individuals but acknowledges the inherent risks, stating, “But here he's being proactive. It's just that you can't protect everybody” (29:00).

• Listener Engagement (31:29 - 32:39):
  The host shares feedback from listeners, including theories and interpretations of the Landini murder case, reflecting the engaged and analytical community surrounding the podcast. He addresses changes in listener hypotheses and acknowledges the depth of audience involvement.

• Acknowledgments:
  Graham thanks Patreon supporter Jennifer for her ongoing support, reinforcing the podcast's community-driven nature.

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Conclusion

Episode 4776 offers a masterful blend of suspense, character development, and intricate plotting, hallmark traits of The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio. With Inspector Charlie Chan at the helm, listeners are treated to a narrative rich in intrigue and unexpected developments. The episode concludes on a cliffhanger, promising further revelations and twists in the unfolding saga of Colonel Willoughby’s murder. Fans of classic detective dramas will find this installment both nostalgic and engaging, continuing the legacy of beloved radio mysteries.

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Additional Resources

• Subscribe to the Podcast: Available on all major podcast platforms or visit greatdetectives.net.

• Explore Archive Feeds:

  • Volume 1 (Seasons 1-3)
  • Volume 2 (Seasons 4-6)
  • Volume 3 (Seasons 7-9)

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This summary captures the essence of Episode 4776, providing both a comprehensive overview and detailed insights into the unfolding mystery. Whether you're a long-time listener or new to the series, this episode promises to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Transcript

[Evelyn]

What do you think makes the perfect snack?

[Inspector Duff]

Hmm, it's gotta be when I'm really craving it and it's convenient.

[Evelyn]

Could you be more specific?

[Charlie Chan]

When it's cravinient.

[Evelyn]

Okay.

[Inspector Duff]

Like a freshly baked cookie made with.

[Adam Graham]

Real butter, available right down the street at AM pm.

[Charlie Chan]

Or a savory breakfast sandwich I can grab in just a second at a.m. pM. I'm seeing a pattern here.

[Adam Graham]

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

[Inspector Duff]

Crave, which is anything from AM pm.

[Charlie Chan]

What more could you want? Stop by AM PM where the snacks and drinks are perfectly craveable and convenient.

[Inspector Duff]

That's cravenience.

[Charlie Chan]

AM PM Too much good stuff.

[Adam Graham]

Welcome to the Great Detectives of Old Time Radio from Boise, Idaho. This is your host, Adam Graham. In a moment, we're going to bring you this week's episode of Charlie Chan. But first I want to encourage you, if you're enjoying the podcast, to please follow us using your favorite podcast software. I also want to take an opportunity to let you know about one of our other podcasts, and I'm highlighting the great adventurers of Old Time Radio. It's our newest effort featuring two great adventure episodes per week, Flash Gordon and Cloak and Dagger. Check it [e-mail] now we are moving on to a shorter Charlie Chan serial. This is once again a partial. We're kind of coming in in the middle, but I think the recaps do a good job explaining what's happened to date. In addition, we are only going to have three weeks with this particular serial, so it's not going to be another Landini murder mystery thing. So much shorter story as we try to untangle the murder of Colonel Willoughby. Now there are often dates given for this series for September and October 1936, and I'm not entirely sure that that is accurate given that it assumes that the serials are played once a week, which was not generally the way that these 15 minute shows were aired. Generally like three times a week. But we will go ahead and say that these episodes are from 1936 and the episodes are known as the Colonel's Son Is Murder Suspect and Simmons Confrontation About Identity.

[Charlie Chan]

The most delightfully fascinating character in the realms of mystery Earl Durbiger's Charlie Chan.

[Evelyn]

Sam.

[Charlie Chan]

Inspector Charlie Chan of the Honolulu Police Force is engaged in trying to solve the murder of Colonel Willoughby. The elderly Colonel had been struck down in the hallway of Mr. Blake's house in San Francisco. Inspector Chan feels that the murder had some connection with the Colonel's search for his son, who had supposedly Committed suicide during the war. Simmons, Mr. Blake's butler, falls under suspicion since he steadfastly refuses to talk. But Inspector Chan is convinced that Simmons did not commit murder. Sir Reginald Bartoli, also a guest, accompanies Ms. Mitchell, the murdered man secretary, to search the Colonel's hotel room, where they find a stranger going through the Colonel's papers. Charlie Chan arrives on the scene and after ordering Sergeant o' Brien to take the man to prison, he announces to the others that the prisoner is none other than the missing son, Douglas Willoughby Jr. Are you really serious, Chan?

[Inspector Duff]

Most assuredly, my dear Duff. I am certain of it. Mr. Jim Watson is none other than the Colonel's lost son.

[Evelyn]

I suppose you'll laugh at my woman's intuition, but that's what I felt.

[Inspector Duff]

You see, Duff, from the moment Sergeant o' Brien mentioned the fact that Colonel Willoughby had been murdered, the young man's expression completely changed.

[Charlie Chan]

I wasn't watching, particularly at the moment. What did he do?

[Inspector Duff]

Up until that moment, he seemed to be somewhat concerned with the predicament in which he found himself. But with the announcement that the Colonel had been murdered, a look of pain cropped his feature. He was stunned. There was no acting. He was genuinely shocked.

[Charlie Chan]

That, of course, would tend to show him innocent of the murder at least.

[Evelyn]

But it wasn't that sort of a look. I mean, it wasn't that he was amazed or anything like that. He was. Well, you've seen people who've received word of the sudden death of a relative or friend. It was exactly like that.

[Inspector Duff]

Added to that, Duff, a little Chinese saying.

[Charlie Chan]

What do you mean, Charlie?

[Inspector Duff]

Through the eyes of the aged man you can look back into the past and see the youth in the features of the youth. You can look forward into the future to see the man he will become. There is a similarity of feature which cannot be denied.

[Charlie Chan]

Then if you felt that he, Watson, was the Colonel's son, why did you encourage o' Brien to arrest him?

[Inspector Duff]

Because he will be safer in jail than in any other place. The murderer who so brutally cut down his aged father will not hesitate to kill the son. And consider, Duff, what explanation can we make to o'? Brien? We shall have to tell o' Brien of the inside of the case, so to speak. We can hardly expect cooperation from Sergeant if we fail to enlighten him as to facts leading up to and involving case.

[Charlie Chan]

Yes, we, Sir Reginald, the Colonel, all of us naturally wanted to keep the matter of the Colonel's search for his son away from the gentlemen of the press.

[Inspector Duff]

But now I. I Think with proper explanation to Sergeant o'. Brien he will keep secret. All Irishmen, even if born in San Francisco, are sentimentalists. However, we have more work here.

[Evelyn]

Here are all the colonel's business papers on this desk. I'm sure there's nothing here that can help. I've been through them all.

[Inspector Duff]

No, it is not an expected place. We should look for papers. I seek no.

[Charlie Chan]

And what papers?

[Inspector Duff]

Charlie, think, please, both of you. What was young man doing here? Searching for papers. Is that not so?

[Charlie Chan]

Yes.

[Inspector Duff]

We assume that if he apparently did not find them. Or if he did, he hid them when he heard you. Ms. Evelyn and Sir Reginald come to room. Now, where would you, if you were caught unawares, hide papers? Remember, when Fox is pursued by hounds, he eludes his pursuers by thinking like them.

[Charlie Chan]

All right, now, what papers would they be and how big a package?

[Inspector Duff]

That question, Duff, my friend, you can answer as easily as I. I look about you what seems disarranged. Pictures are all straight. Desks we have searched. Carpet on floor seems taut and even. No hidden wall. Safe behind curtains. Wardrobe trunk is locked. Pat, come in, please.

[Charlie Chan]

Oh, Reggie and the district attorney. Yes, yes, we saw. Sergeant o' Brien told us what had transpired to date. We thought you might be searching for papers, so we thought we'd drop around and help you. I was going to wait till breakfast, but the old thrill of the chase, the man hunt. Ah, even at my age, a man doesn't outlive it. O' Brien told you about his prisoner, Mr. Holbrook? Yes. Seems certain that he was the fellow who left his hat on the hall table. Said that he wouldn't talk. And that you, Mr. Chan, recommended that he be locked up. Indeed? Yes. Charlie maintains, and I agree with him now that o' Brien's prisoner, the colonel's son. Jove, you astound me. You don't mean it?

[Inspector Duff]

I am certain of it. But come explanations later. We must continue search for papers.

[Charlie Chan]

Well, I may not be the world's greatest searcher, but I am certain there's nothing in this suitcase. Searching. That's supposed to be the prerogative of the district attorney's office. Searching and finding what doesn't exist. Did you look in that flower pot? No, no, but I will.

[Inspector Duff]

A key.

[Charlie Chan]

Looks like the key to that trunk.

[Inspector Duff]

I hardly think, however, that our prisoner had time to unlock the trunk, hide the papers and relock the trunk. No, I am inclined to opinion that it is some simple place we shall find paper.

[Evelyn]

A woman, of course, would hide them under the mattress on the Bed.

[Charlie Chan]

I'm looking there now.

[Evelyn]

Sorry.

[Charlie Chan]

Pray they're not there. Did you ask your prisoner where he hid them?

[Inspector Duff]

No, we did not. I do not think he would give us an answer to that question any more than he would to the other questions we asked.

[Charlie Chan]

Just the same, we've got our own methods. I'll call o'. Brien. Hello, every police headquarters. This is the District Attorney. By the way, Inspector Chan, what do you expect to find in these papers?

[Inspector Duff]

I am hopeful that we will find that link which will complete for us the chain of evidence with which we shall shackle murderer.

[Charlie Chan]

She's pretty hopeful. I wish you and us luck. Oh, hello. Listen, this is Holbrook. Yes, where's o'? Brien? I want to talk to him right away. He's still there. By the way, Duff, I wireless England, notified everybody I could think of. You sent word to Gerald? Yes. I rather imagine he'll want to make the funeral arrangements. General, Mr. Chan, is the colonel's nephew, the heir to the estates?

[Inspector Duff]

Not if our prisoner is Colonel Willoughby's son.

[Charlie Chan]

Gods, that does complicate matters, doesn't it? I hadn't thought of that at all. Oh, hello there, Brian. Listen, See if you can persuade your prisoner to tell where he hid the papers he found when he was searching the colonel's hotel room. I know he won't talk. Try a little persuasion. What's that? You did? No. Don't say anything to anyone, you understand? Now listen, o', Brien, you handle this the way Inspector Chan and Inspector Duff wanted handled. And you're due for promotion. Right. Goodbye.

[Inspector Duff]

Your tone of voice would indicate that Sergeant o' Brien had made discovery.

[Charlie Chan]

He has. He went through Colonel Willoughby's wallet and he founded photograph of a young fellow in uniform. He says it's a photograph of your prisoner, Watson.

[Inspector Duff]

But he disclosed his findings to no one.

[Charlie Chan]

He hasn't so far. And I've warned him, as you heard, to keep his mouth shut. Well, Jolly, your surmises, deductions and eliminations are correct. Not to mention your woman's intuition, Ms. Mitchell.

[Inspector Duff]

All of which, however, while definitely proving that we are correct does not bring us closer to finding the murderer. That requires the finding of the other papers.

[Charlie Chan]

But on the other hand, Inspector Chant, you have no proof that there were or are any other papers? No.

[Inspector Duff]

But do you think, Sir Reginald, that this man. I do not know whether to refer to him as Watson or Willoughby. Do you think that he came here searching? That he committed burglary merely on the possibility that there were papers? No, I think not. He knew that Papers referring to him existed.

[Charlie Chan]

Do you think, Inspector Chan, that he wanted the papers to prove his identity?

[Inspector Duff]

I do not. I think the man has forever given up the thought of claiming relationship with the murdered man. I believe that he wished to destroy the papers to ensure forever that the past was dead.

[Charlie Chan]

But why?

[Inspector Duff]

To answer that question as to why a human being does things contrary to natural impulses. Is to answer the riddle of the mind. It is to solve the problem of the insane. It is to supply the answer to what is genius. Only young Willoughby can answer that question. And we must use utmost care in trying to persuade him to do so.

[Charlie Chan]

Well, the only thing I know left to do. Is to have this room completely turned inside out. We haven't the time to do it. So I suppose we'll have to turn that over to Mr. Holbrook's step.

[Inspector Duff]

It is at such moments as these that I regret not having my assistant, Kashimo, with me.

[Charlie Chan]

Kashimo? Oh, yes. The little Japanese I met in Honolulu.

[Inspector Duff]

He is the same. He is world's prized bungler. He enters with fanfare of trumpets where angels fear to tread. But he has unique faculty for interesting himself in other people's affairs. And as such, bungler though he is, he is past master in art of searching. One moment, please. I have thought. Miss Evelyn, will you be pleased to rise from chair? Search under cushion.

[Evelyn]

I'm sorry, Mr. Chan. No paper's here.

[Inspector Duff]

A moment's concentrated thought. I found paper and wish to destroy Sam. And that conclusion of search. I am interrupted. I desire to hide papers, but also to try and assure their being destroyed. I should remove colored paper from bottom of wastebasket. Placing papers underneath colored paper. This time we are fortunate. Here are papers.

[Charlie Chan]

I'll be dash. Newspaper clippings. By Jove, I say that's searching.

[Evelyn]

Look, Here's a cutting. The London Daily Sketch. March 11, 1916. Colonel Willoughby, son Douglas. Lieutenant in King's Rifles. To be tried by a military court.

[Charlie Chan]

Here's another lieutenant prefers suicide to court martial. By Jove, look at this.

[Inspector Duff]

What is it, daft?

[Charlie Chan]

Look here, everybody. Colonel Douglas Willoughby inspects Birmingham Volunteers. Here's the colonel walking down the front rank. And look who's behind him.

[Evelyn]

The Sergeant Major Simmons, Mr. Blake's butler.

[Inspector Duff]

You are correct. Come. No time must be lost. We must question Simmons. But more than that, if murder knows that Simmons is here at Blake's house. His life is not worth a proverbial penny.

[Charlie Chan]

Inspector Chan and Inspector Duff of Scotland Yard are in Blake's study. When the suspected Simmons knocks on the door.

[Inspector Duff]

Amen. Please.

[Charlie Chan]

You rang, sir?

[Inspector Duff]

Yes, sir. Is Mr. Blake at home?

[Charlie Chan]

Yes, sir. Mr. Blake, sir, is in the library. You wish to speak with him?

[Inspector Duff]

If you please, sir. Has Sergeant o' Brien arrived yet?

[Charlie Chan]

Sergeant o', Brien, sir, is in the gymnasium on his hands and knees, sir, examining the floor with a magnifying glass.

[Inspector Duff]

Indeed. You seem to find some measure of humor in the situation. Sim.

[Charlie Chan]

Begging your pardon, sir, but considering Sergeant o' Brien's sarcastic remarks about Sherlock Holmes. I do find a tinge of humor in his position, sir, if not the situation here. By Jove, you know, that's something I haven't done for a long time. I have half a mind to join the sergeant. In fact, I shall. After you, Simmons.

[Evelyn]

Yes.

[Charlie Chan]

Wonder what the due stuff has up his sleeve.

[Inspector Duff]

Something on his mind, undoubtedly. Yes, but what? Ah, well, we shall learn in due course. Ms. Evelyn.

[Evelyn]

Yes, Mr. Chan?

[Inspector Duff]

You have arranged these newspaper clippings, notes and diary on that table?

[Evelyn]

Yes, Mr. Chan. Everything is as you wished it.

[Inspector Duff]

Splendid, I think. Yes, I am certain that now it would be better for you to get some rest. You will stay here.

[Evelyn]

You, Mr. Chen. But I have my room at the hotel.

[Inspector Duff]

Yes, quite so. Yes. You have none of your things here. I realize that. And I took the liberty of having the hotel people send them here.

[Evelyn]

But why? I can just as easily.

[Inspector Duff]

Yes, quite. Ms. Evelyn, if murderer has any thought that you may know something regarding Colonel Search for son. He will as ruthlessly kill you as he has Colonel. No, Ms. Evelyn. Until such time as murderer is under lock and key, you do not move from under our eyes.

[Charlie Chan]

I think you're right, inspector. I only wish I had your optimism in regard to capturing the killer.

[Inspector Duff]

Do not worry, Sir Reginald. We shall catch him.

[Charlie Chan]

But you haven't the slightest idea who he is or what he looks like or where to start searching for him.

[Inspector Duff]

Think, Sir Reginald. What other, shall we say, proverb do you make frequent use of at Scotland Yard? What other besides essential clue will carry you through?

[Charlie Chan]

I don't know exactly what you're driving at.

[Inspector Duff]

Is this remark not familiar? The murderer always returns to the scene of his crime.

[Charlie Chan]

Well, yes, I've forgotten that for the moment.

[Inspector Duff]

The murderer will, in this instance do so, if not of his own volition, then because of trap which we shall bait and set for him. Consider too, if you please, we have not only to arrest murderer to avenge killing of kindly old gentlemen. But we must do so in order to free young man at present held in jail.

[Evelyn]

Yes, I. I feel so sorry for that young man. I did when we Sir Reginald and I walked in on him at Colonel Willoughby's hotel room.

[Charlie Chan]

I have to admit that even though caught in the act, he didn't strike me as being a thief.

[Inspector Duff]

But until murderer is caught, that young man's life is not worth anything. I know that. I'm right. Murder will kill him if he finds out that he is young Douglas Willoughby. No, he is safer in jail, no matter how unpleasant.

[Charlie Chan]

Oh, there you are. Simmons told me you had returned first.

[Inspector Duff]

Mr. Blake, can we impose upon you to the extent of having Ms. Evelyn provided with sleeping cot? I. I am fearful of allowing her out of our sight.

[Charlie Chan]

Oh, yes. Afraid the murderer might get her too. Yes, I see. Why, certainly. Simmons will show you to her room. You ring the bell, Sir Reginald. Of course.

[Evelyn]

Oh, I feel. That is, I really hate to put you to this trouble.

[Charlie Chan]

Oh, not at all.

[Inspector Duff]

Delighted to have you with us. Oh, I almost forgot. This telegram arrived a short time ago.

[Charlie Chan]

Oh, thanks. Just learned of my uncle's death. Am flying from Chicago. Gerald.

[Inspector Duff]

Gerald? Colonel Willoughby's nephew?

[Charlie Chan]

Yes. We knew he was on a trip around the world, but we didn't know he was in the States.

[Inspector Duff]

Mr. Blake, may I use your telephone?

[Charlie Chan]

Certainly.

[Inspector Duff]

Thank you so much. Hello. Give me telegraph Company, please. Yes. Thank you. Hello. Please send this for me. Addressed to Gerald Willoughby, your uncle murdered. Come to Blake's San Francisco. Signed Duff. Where to? Telegraph company. Will have to call Chicago Hotel. You shall do that at once and answer is required. Try expensive hotels first. Here. Thank you so much.

[Charlie Chan]

What on earth you try to find out whether or not Gerald is or was in Chicago?

[Inspector Duff]

Precisely.

[Charlie Chan]

Well, he couldn't have sent the first telegram if he hadn't been.

[Inspector Duff]

Perhaps I am over careful. But between time murder was committed and sending of this telegram. Murderer could have flown from here to Chicago to send said telegram.

[Charlie Chan]

Oh, but Gerald had no reason to kill the old man.

[Inspector Duff]

He believed he was heir to the estate.

[Charlie Chan]

Well, yes, that's true, but they were the best of friends. And in any case, Gerald has plenty of money of his own.

[Inspector Duff]

Man who has fallen in well does not require to be told that hole is there. When we receive answer to that telegram, we shall have either one way or other, definite answer as to Mr. Gerald's whereabouts.

[Charlie Chan]

The young lady is ready?

[Evelyn]

Oh, why, yes. Thank you. Everybody.

[Inspector Duff]

Rest well.

[Charlie Chan]

Anything you require, just ring for.

[Evelyn]

Thank you, Mr. Blake.

[Inspector Duff]

Ah, here is Sergeant O'. Brien. Well, Sergeant, thou prisoner talk.

[Charlie Chan]

Not a word will he say. Says he doesn't care what we do to him.

[Inspector Duff]

Simmons informed us that you were making exhaustive search of Floor and gymnasium.

[Charlie Chan]

And that I did. I searched the floor for traces of wood and I found that the man.

[Inspector Duff]

Who made the footprint outside the front.

[Charlie Chan]

Door walked down the hallway into the gymnasium as far as the motion picture machine and back onto the hall rug. And that's all.

[Inspector Duff]

Which finding would tend to substantiate our previous release. That's the murderer slipped in the house, handed note to Colonel, lowered him the hallway and killed him all within the space of a few moments. Archie Georgian. Ah, and here is Inspector Duck, I think. Yes, I am certain. Now is time to question Simmons.

[Charlie Chan]

Simmons? Is Simmons really mixed up in this affair?

[Inspector Duff]

Very much so, Mr. Blake. But in manner totally unexpected.

[Charlie Chan]

I've run for him.

[Inspector Duff]

Thank you so much, Sir Reginald. Sergeant and Mr. Blake, we are asking you to bind yourselves to secrecy in what is about to be disclosed. It will make much that is not clear. Quite clear.

[Charlie Chan]

You rang, sir?

[Inspector Duff]

Closed door. If you will be so kind as it. Yes, sir.

[Charlie Chan]

Oh, Sergeant Major.

[Inspector Duff]

Yes, sir.

[Charlie Chan]

I mean, did you speak, sir?

[Inspector Duff]

Useless to deny anything anymore. Look, if you will be so kind at these newspaper clippings, one is of particular interest. It shows Colonel Willoughby, inspecting regiment of Birmingham Volunteers, figurative Sergeant Major follows escorting officers, as is the custom in British Army. Sergeant Major is Simmons by name.

[Charlie Chan]

I see, sir. There's no use, as you say, denying anything.

[Inspector Duff]

Quite correct, Simmons. On dark night lighted way no longer is ofttimes quickest way home. Full explanation is in order, I believe.

[Charlie Chan]

Yes, sir. It is really quite simple, sir. I was walking down Market street one day. I saw a somewhat familiar figure looking at sporting goods in a window. I looked again and recognized him as Colonel Willoughby's only son. We had lunch. I tried to persuade him to let his father know he was alive. Did he give you any reason for his refusal? Yes, sir, he did. He said that his father had at first believed the charge of cowardice against him. He said that he preferred to remain dead, sir. Do you understand why the charge was preferred against him? Yes, sir. He was ordered to retreat by his superior officer. He obeyed orders, sir.

[Inspector Duff]

His superior officer was afterwards killed?

[Charlie Chan]

No, sir. His superior officer denied giving any such order when inquiries were made later.

[Inspector Duff]

And there were no witnesses?

[Charlie Chan]

There were, sir. But neither the witnesses nor Lt. Willoughby would say a word, sir. The entire thing was hushed up as rapidly as possible, sir, once it was believed that Lt. Willoughby had committed suicide. You thought that he had done so too, Simmons? I did, sir. I was dumbfounded when I saw the young master on Market Street. Then, sir, when I learned that the colonel was coming to the House here to talk. I called Master Douglas and told him to come over. He wanted to see his father, to hear his voice. Even if he did not disclose himself to him.

[Inspector Duff]

I understand Simmons and young Willoughby left the house before the murder was committed.

[Charlie Chan]

Yes, sir. Most certainly, sir. Shall I answer it, sir?

[Inspector Duff]

Yes, Simmons. We must try and get Simmons to tell us who the superior officer was who denied this order to retreat. There lies our solution.

[Charlie Chan]

You think so?

[Inspector Duff]

I am certain of it.

[Charlie Chan]

I remember the case. But as far as my memory serves me, no other officer was ever mentioned. Telegram for you, Mr. Duff. For me? Thank you. Excuse me, please. Oh, pardon me, gentlemen. I shall answer the door again. I can't make this out. Look. Gerald Willoughby staying at Drake Hotel this past week. We'd left for San Francisco by plane. 9:10 this morning. Manager, Hotel Drake.

[Inspector Duff]

An answer to my telegram. I desired to find out whether or not Mr. Gerald Willoughby was or was not in Chicago.

[Charlie Chan]

Well, according to this, he was all week. Oh, Gerald wouldn't be mixed up in this. Then the fellow we have in jail is the colonel's son?

[Inspector Duff]

Yes, Sergeant. But you realize it is better that he remain there until we have murderer in our grasp.

[Charlie Chan]

And that it is, sir.

[Inspector Duff]

The man that killed the father wouldn't.

[Charlie Chan]

Hesitate about killing the son.

[Inspector Duff]

Now remember, please, everyone, we must continue our questioning of Simmons. Very carefully. We must find the name of officer who was responsible for tragedy.

[Charlie Chan]

Wonder what's keeping Simmons. He must still be at the front door open by chance.

[Evelyn]

Stop.

[Charlie Chan]

Simmons. Simmons, quick. Simmons has been hurt. What does it do out of. Beware, Inspector. Call the doctor. Blade.

[Inspector Duff]

Simmons, this is Charlie Chan. Who was it?

[Charlie Chan]

Record yet? Records? It was. I saw him.

[Inspector Duff]

So sorry, but it is too late.

[Charlie Chan]

Just when Simmons was about to disclose what he knew, the murderer strikes again. After you've heard from your sponsor, Inspector Chan will be with us again. Well, Inspector Chan, what do you have for us this evening?

[Inspector Duff]

I have been thinking of persons who are always in hurry. Who always ride roughshod, so to speak, to their goal. Chinese people have saying regarding sale.

[Charlie Chan]

Yes, Mr. Chan.

[Inspector Duff]

The wise man waits for the egg to hatch. He does not break it open with a hatchet.

[Charlie Chan]

Thank you, Inspector Chan, and good night it.

[Adam Graham]

Welcome back. I feel like the recap did a really good job getting us caught up on a much simpler murder case. As opposed to one that was written for a novel. Again, it's not quite as deep or involved. And so I wouldn't be surprised if we're only missing somewhere like two to five parts. I also recognized a couple of voices from the Landini murder case, which means the series has kind of got a rep company feel going on. I appreciate that Charlie Chan tried to keep people safe. You hear so many programs where the detective just kind of lets things happen, even when you should suspect based on experience that people are going to be in danger. But here he's being proactive. It's just that you can't protect everybody. And I guess only if you're a genre savvy detective. Wait, you're about to tell us something. Okay, guard him, guard him, guard him. Don't let him go anywhere but here. The killer was able to go ahead and get to Simmons, which means that the inspector's got to go elsewhere for his information. Now this would seem to put the Colonel's son in the Claire because he couldn't very well have committed this murder while he's locked up in jail. But we'll have to see how things play out in the next episode. Well, now we turn to listener comments and feedback. And we had a couple of comments on the Landini murder case. David writes on the site called X. I hope a sing came to his senses. Sadly not. But he was fortunate that Inspector Chan and Sam Holt were willing to give him a lot of mercy so he could get a good ending despite his bad judgment in this case. And I really can't fault them too much on it. And Holly, who emailed me before we played the second to last episode, emailed after we played the second to last episode and changed her mind on who did it. No, wait, it was Dudley Ward. Why not? Well, I'll allow it. I made my call as to who the murderer was. Well, I had an idea, but I firmed it up after listening to that second to last installment. So a perfectly valid change and decision. And in terms of reasoning, it's probably as good as mine and three minutes shorter. Alright, well, now it's time to thank our Patreon supporter of the day. And I want to thank Jennifer, who's been one of our patreon supporters since November 2019, currently supporting the podcast at the rookie level of $2 or more per month. Thanks so much for your support, Jennifer. We will be back next Tuesday with the next installment in the Willowby murder case. But join us back here tomorrow for Broadway's My Beat, where my sister is dead.

[Evelyn]

You see, people have been bringing flowers.

[Charlie Chan]

I'm from the police. My name is Danny Clover and I've.

[Evelyn]

Been telling them to deliver the flowers to the Moss Journal Acknowledge from here.

[Charlie Chan]

Yes.

[Evelyn]

And from the police, I've never talked to a policeman before. Isn't that strange? Joe, you said you were a policeman. I remembered that. Never in my whole life have I done what I'm doing now. Please come in.

[Charlie Chan]

It's about a man named John Webster.

[Evelyn]

Hi, Sylvie. Mm. In here. My sister loves this kitchen so much. Here. Right from this window.

[Charlie Chan]

What?

[Evelyn]

My sister jumped right from this window. Everybody who comes here wants to see what window Agnes jumped from.

[Charlie Chan]

Your sister was a suicide.

[Evelyn]

Don't say that about her. My sister was really not to live.

[Charlie Chan]

I think now perhaps you can tell me about a man named John Wesley.

[Evelyn]

My sister was a woman who loved a man. He died for it. That's a woman's right.

[Inspector Duff]

What man?

[Evelyn]

My sister loved Thomas Perry. Truly loved him.

[Charlie Chan]

Thomas Perry?

[Evelyn]

Do you know him? No, but Adams knew him. He loved him. He was a child about love, the way a woman should be.

[Charlie Chan]

What about a man named John Webster?

[Evelyn]

John Webster. Oh, of course.

[Inspector Duff]

Of course what?

[Evelyn]

You have the wrong address. I never heard of a man by that name.

[Adam Graham]

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