Counterspy: The Courageous Come-On (A0110)

Summary

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Podcast Summary: "Counterspy: The Courageous Come-On"

Podcast: The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio
Host: Adam Graham
Episode Date: August 1, 2026
Featured Dramatization: Counterspy, “The Courageous Come-On” (original airdate: September 8, 1949)

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Episode Overview

In this episode, Adam Graham features a classic "Counterspy" radio drama, “The Courageous Come-On.” The story combines intrigue, social commentary, and action, as Counterspy agents uncover a crooked charity scam exploiting the goodwill toward disabled veterans. The episode is notable for tackling the real issue of fraudulent fundraising and advocating for the rights and abilities of the disabled, all while delivering suspense and a satisfying sting operation.

Adam’s reflective outro provides context on Old Time Radio’s public service message tradition and the blending of fiction and reality within the genre—especially concerning how disabled veterans and charity scams were perceived in the postwar era.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Charity Scam Setup (03:39–08:54)

• Setting: The story opens on a Hollywood film set, introducing matinee idol Gary Marlowe who is approached by Dr. Hobart Whelan and his assistant, Jimmy Dover—a disabled veteran with one arm and one leg.
• Dr. Whelan’s Pitch: Whelan seeks Marlowe’s involvement as emcee in a high-profile New York benefit for the "Institute for Disabled Workers." At first, Marlowe assumes they want money, but Whelan clarifies they only seek his time (07:02).
• Underlying Motives: The interactions suggest surface-level goodwill, but quickly hint at deeper manipulations and a potential con.

2. Inside the Con: Pity as Bait (09:45–12:32)

• Jimmy’s Role: Jimmy confides to Vicki Brandt (secretary and accomplice) that he’s tired of being used as a “pitch to soften people up,” resenting the pity invoked by his disability (10:20).
• True Colors Revealed: Whelan privately admits to Vicki that Jimmy—and donors—are being played; the cause of the disabled is only a front (“The fact he's a cripple doesn't change that. Simply makes him better bait to lure on the healthy suckers." — Dr. Whelan, 12:02).

“What do you use for a heart?”
“A pump composed of animal tissue, like every other human being.”
– Vicki Brandt & Dr. Whelan (11:56–12:01)

3. Counterspy Investigation Launches (07:48–09:15)

• Routine Alert: The Actors’ Union notifies Counterspy David Harding of the benefit, triggering a standard investigation due to IRS concerns over fraudulent “charity” events.
• Protocol: Harding stresses the importance of vetting sponsors but typically does not intervene unless clear fraud or risk of crime is detected (“For once we get a chance to stop a crime before it's committed.” — 09:12).

4. The Confrontation and Turn (12:56–15:36)

• Jimmy’s Awakening: On the train to New York, Vicki, troubled by guilt, breaks the news to Jimmy that the entire organization is fake and they’re both complicit (“Our organization is a phony. And the Doc is a phony. And I'm a phony.” — Vicki, 15:33).
• Key Moment: Jimmy is devastated, but immediately seeks to notify Counterspy headquarters, setting up the showdown (15:52).

5. Alliance with the Counterspies (18:09–22:13)

• Coming Clean: Jimmy and Vicki report to David Harding in New York, revealing the whole scam—including ticket pricing schemes and fake organization details.
• Ethical Dilemma: Harding recognizes the importance of the planned benefit for actual disabled people and proposes letting the event proceed under surveillance, so the money reaches a real cause and the crooks are exposed publicly.
• Sting Operation: Jimmy and Vicki agree to participate in Harding’s plan, at personal risk.

“I'm not sure this case is as simple as that… if we plan the how and when of Dr. Whelan’s arrest, we’d be doing a lot more for society than we would by picking him up right now.”
– David Harding (21:39–21:47)

6. The Climax: Benefit Night and Public Arrest (22:29–27:12)

• At the Benefit: The Coliseum is packed. Jimmy and Vicki nervously await Whelan, conscious of their double-cross.
• Surprise Guest: Harding is introduced on stage as a special guest (“…the chief of the United States counterspies, Mr. David Hardy.” – 24:27), and, in front of the crowd, exposes Dr. Whelan and orchestrates his arrest for charity fraud.
• Empowerment: Jimmy, the “supposedly disabled man,” physically subdues Whelan with his crutch—demonstrating the very capability the scam sought to exploit (26:25).

“This crutch is good for something besides leaning on!”
– Jimmy Dover (26:25)

• Resolution: Harding assures the audience their donations will go to a legitimate cause, reinforcing the episode’s central message that the disabled deserve opportunities, not pity.

7. Moral and Social Advocacy (27:12–28:50)

• Message from the Vice President (Voice-acted): Statement read on behalf of Vice President Alvin W. Barkley urging policy and social support for disabled veterans and handicapped workers; emphasizes ability over disability (28:50).

“Ability is much more important than disability.”
– “Vice President Barkley” (29:35)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Scams & Sympathy

  • “You see, Mr. Marlow, that’s what my institute is for. To educate the public to the abilities of disabled people. To accept a man minus an arm and a leg, like Jimmy for instance, as a man, not a cripple.” – Dr. Hobart Whelan (06:38–06:54)

• Cynicism of the Con Artist

  • “The survival of the fittest. The strong eat the weak. I’m strong, Vicki. The kid’s a sucker…Makes him better bait to lure on the healthy suckers.” – Dr. Whelan (12:02)

• Turning Point – Betrayal Revealed

  • “You know who’s stupid? ... You. You’re stupid. Stupid and a sucker. You’re not a strong one. You’re not like the Doc.” – Vicki Brandt to Jimmy (14:58-15:07)

• Public Exposure and Justice

  • “An actual arrest here on the platform… This man here, Dr. Hobart Whelan. Jimmy, I want you to arrest him.”
    – David Harding (26:04–26:22)

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Host Commentary & Analysis (32:00–36:20)

Adam Graham reflects:

• Old Time Radio PSA tradition: The “Vice President’s” message was likely read by an actor, a common practice to maintain professionalism and audio quality. This realism served as an effective public service message.
• Fiction vs. Reality: While stories of charity scams were not uncommon in the 1940s, there was no real-life government agency that preemptively investigated all charitable events. “This is yet another case of Counterspy really stretching its jurisdiction in order to tell the story it wanted to tell, which was an important one.”
• Cultural Message: Graham highlights the importance of enabling the disabled, not merely supporting them—an attitude reflected across OTR programs of the era.

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Important Timestamps

• Charity Scam Setup: 03:39–07:48
• Dr. Whelan’s true attitude revealed: 11:56–12:32
• IRS/Counterspy investigation initiated: 07:48–09:15
• Con uncovered to Jimmy: 14:58–15:36
• Jimmy & Vicki confess to Counterspy: 18:09–22:13
• Benefit night and public takedown: 22:29–27:12
• Vice President’s advocacy message: 28:50–29:40
• Adam Graham’s outro commentary: 32:00–36:20

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Summary

“The Courageous Come-On” blends suspenseful radio storytelling with a pointed social message—demonstrating how empathy and vigilance are both needed to protect society’s most vulnerable against exploitation. The episode stands out in the annals of detective fiction for its real-world resonance and remains a powerful, entertaining artifact from radio’s golden era. Adam Graham’s commentary helps modern listeners appreciate the episode’s deeper relevance and the conventions of old-time radio.

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Transcript

[Narrator/Announcer]

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[Adam Graham]

Welcome to the great adventurers of Old time radio from Boise, Idaho. This is your host, Adam Grah. In a moment, we're going to bring you this week's episode of Counterspot. But first, I want to encourage you. If you're enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software. And I want to encourage you. Today's program is brought to you in part by the financial support of our listeners. You can support the show on a one time basis at support.greatdetectives.net and become one of our ongoing Patreon supporters for as little as $2 per month at patreon.great detect. But now, from September 8, 1949, here is the courageous. Come on.

[David Harding]

This is David Harding. Because of the importance of tonight's counterspy case, following our dramatization, there will be a special message from the Vice President of the United States of interest to

[Narrator/Announcer]

all Americans,

Pepsi cola. P e p s I. That's your smartest colabi. Pepsi Cola presents counterspy.

[Counterspy Agent]

Washington calling David Harding. Counterspy Washington calling David Harding.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Counterspy Harding.

[David Harding]

Counterspy calling Washington.

[Narrator/Announcer]

United States counter spies especially appointed to

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

investigate and combat the enemies of our

[Narrator/Announcer]

country both at home and abroad. Tonight, the case of a courageous. Come on. Another counter spy report to the American people. Brought to you each Tuesday and Thursday by Pepsi Cola.

[Pepsi Cola Advertiser]

Pepsi Cola. It's a spot. Two full glasses. That's a lot.

[Narrator/Announcer]

That's right. You heard what they said. Two full glasses of spot sparkling Pepsi from one big 12 ounce bottle. You're getting an extra glass full. And what a delicious glass full. The most refreshing, delightful cola that ever tickled your taste. You can't top Pepsi's tangy flavor. And that big, big bottle saves you money. Goes twice as far. Pepsi is America's big, big favorite. And America's biggest cola value. So why take less when Pepsi's best? Whenever you reach for refreshment, Remember why

[Pepsi Cola Advertiser]

take less when Pepsi's best?

[Narrator/Announcer]

And now to counterspy. It is a scene truly out of the old West. A dance and gambling hall crowded with hard riding, fast shooting men enjoying themselves, but at any moment ready for action. Suddenly the swinging doors fly open. A tall, languid cowpoke stands framed in them. The crowd quiet as the cowpoke ambles to the bar and stops in front of a well dressed, shifty eyed man.

[Gary Marlowe]

Well, dude, it's sundown and I'm still in town.

[Counterspy Agent]

You don't take advice easy, Steve Morgan.

[Gary Marlowe]

I'm choosy about whose advice I take. Dude, I don't like yours. I give you five seconds to draw.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Now look, Steve, you don't want to.

[Director]

Okay, okay, that's it. Cut.

[Pepsi Cola Advertiser]

Cut.

[Director]

Camera will print that take.

[David Harding]

All right, boys, clear the set so

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

we can do the fight scene next.

[Director]

Oh, Gary. Gary.

[Gary Marlowe]

Well, how did it go, my great director?

[Director]

Okay.

[David Harding]

Swell, swell.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Great strong jaw stuff.

[Gary Marlowe]

Thanks.

[David Harding]

You've got a visitor, Gary. Dr. Hobart Wayland, this is Gary Marlowe. Steve Morgan in this picture we're shooting.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Well, how do you do, Mr. Marlow? It's quite a thrill meeting you in person after seeing you in so many films.

[Gary Marlowe]

Thank you, Doctor.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

May I present my assistant, James Dover.

[Gary Marlowe]

Hello, Mr. Dover.

[Jimmy Dover]

I. Oh, it's all right, Mr. Marlow. I can shake hands with my left. Get used to it after being without a right arm a couple of years.

[Gary Marlowe]

I'm sorry, I didn't notice.

[Jimmy Dover]

Okay, everyone spots a leg first.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Mr. Marlow, is there somewhere we could talk privately?

[Gary Marlowe]

Why, my dressing room. Just follow me.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

To get to the point, Mr. Marlow, I'm heading the Institute for Disabled Workers and we're embarking on a large fundraising campaign.

[Gary Marlowe]

Well, maybe I'd better. Save your time, Dr. Whalen. All my charitable contributions are handled by my business manager.

[Jimmy Dover]

We're not looking for charity, Mr. Marlow. You mean, why is it every time you guys see somebody without an arm or a leg, you think of ten cups and Becky?

[Gary Marlowe]

Oh, I'm sorry.

[Jimmy Dover]

I thought. Sure, I know you thought. We're looking for a handout charity, huh? Did you ever take any, Mr. Marlowe? It sticks in your craw.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Jimmy, you better wait outside.

[Jimmy Dover]

I'm sorry, doctor.

[Gary Marlowe]

Believe me, Mr. Dover, I didn't mean

[Jimmy Dover]

my fault, Mr. Marlow. I fly off the handle too easy.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Wait outside, Jimmy. I'll finish our business with Mr. Marlow.

[Jimmy Dover]

All right, Daddy. I'm sorry again. I'M always being sorry,

[Gary Marlowe]

Doctor. I didn't mean to hurt him.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

No one does. You see, Mr. Marlow, that's what my institute is for. To educate the public to the abilities of disabled people. To accept a man minus an arm and a leg, like Jimmy for instance, as a man, not a cripple.

[Gary Marlowe]

Dr. Weyland, any way I can help you, I will.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Thank you, Mr. Marlow. You can by a contribution not of your money, but of your time.

[Gary Marlowe]

Yes.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Month from now, we're holding a benefit in New York City. It's to raise money to set up a chain of industrial and liberal arts schools for the disabled so they. So they can become self employed.

[Gary Marlowe]

A month from now, you said?

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Yes. And I'd like you, the famous western film star, to be our master ceremonies. We'll have a full program of stars and celebrities.

[Gary Marlowe]

Why, I think I can do it, Dr. Whalen. I'll have to clear it with my agent, my studio, but that should be simple.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Splendid, Mr. Marlow. Thanks for your cooperation. I'll have my secretary, Ms. Vicky Brandt, call you for a final confirmation. Good day, sir.

[Counterspy Agent]

To David Harding, United States counterspies, Washington from United Stage and Screen Actors Union. Pursuant to Tax Bureau memorandum. This is to notify you that members of our union are being solicited to appear at a benefit performance for the Institute for the disabled. Dr. Hobart Whelan, Director. We are notifying our members they may appear unless you notify us to the contrary.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Mr. Harding, the Telegram just came in for you.

[David Harding]

Let's see. Peter. Oh, yes.

[Narrator/Announcer]

What's it all about?

[David Harding]

Oh, that's right. You were out of town on the horn case when this memorandum was issued.

[Narrator/Announcer]

I must have been.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

I don't know what it refers to.

[David Harding]

Charity benefit performances. The Tax Bureau's been having trouble with them.

[Jimmy Dover]

Oh? How?

[David Harding]

Well, in some instances, the tax regulations allow entertainers to deduct contributions of their services to charity, just as if they had donated cash. But there were a number of benefits last year that were nothing but highly organized rackets.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Oh, I get it. The tax people wouldn't allow the deductions to playing those benefits.

[David Harding]

That's right. So we've worked out an arrangement with them and the various entertainers unions. They notify us of scheduled benefits, we make a routine investigation.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Do the sponsors of the benefits know about it?

[David Harding]

Not if we give them a clean bill of health.

[Narrator/Announcer]

And if we don't, no benefit.

[David Harding]

If they want to promote one for themselves in the penitentiary, fine.

[Narrator/Announcer]

For once we get a chance to stop a crime before it's committed.

[David Harding]

That's about it. So put this institute and this Dr. Hobart Whelan through a routine investigation. Then we can forget it. Unless, of course, it turns out to be not routine.

[Vicki Brandt]

Yes, Mr. Marlow. Well, this is Dr. Whelan's secretary. I'll give him your message just as soon as he gets back here to the office. And we'll see you in New York in a month. Goodbye.

[Jimmy Dover]

The great Gary Marlowe, isn't he?

[Vicki Brandt]

Yes, Jimmy. He says he'll emcee the benefit performance.

[Jimmy Dover]

Wonderful.

[Vicki Brandt]

You're not very enthusiastic about it, are you, Jimmy?

[Jimmy Dover]

Sorry, Vicki. I've got the blues.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Vicki. Jimmy, I have splendid news. Splendid news.

[Vicki Brandt]

What is it, Dr. Whelan?

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Well, I've just talked to the management of Colosseum hall in New York by transcontinental phone. They're going to let us have the hall for our benefit. For just expenses, they're giving up their usual profit.

[Vicki Brandt]

That's wonderful, Doctor. Isn't it, Jimmy?

[Jimmy Dover]

Yeah, great.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Well, what's the matter?

[Vicki Brandt]

Jimmy's a little down in the dumps today, Doctor.

[Jimmy Dover]

It's just that I haven't been doing anything. Just hanging around, acting like a pitch to soften people up. I walk in, they took a look at me and they go woozy. And I can't stand the pity in their eyes when they see what the war did to me.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

I know how you feel, boy. That's why your job is the toughest of all.

[Jimmy Dover]

Yeah.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Because you've got to stand that pity. The misplaced pity of a lot of well meaning people. You've got to do that so we can break the ground and educate them to know that you don't need pity.

[Jimmy Dover]

We've got to show people that a

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

boy like you is well able to take care of himself. Show them in a dramatic manner that they'll never forget.

[Jimmy Dover]

Maybe you're right, Doc.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Of course I am. Now, I just made train reservations to New York. You go down the station, get those tickets on the double. And don't tell me that you can't do that with one leg. I know you better.

[Jimmy Dover]

Okay, Dr. Wayland. Sorry. I'm a double.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Hello, Vicki. Think I set the boy straight?

[Vicki Brandt]

No question about it.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Funny thing is, every word I said was true.

[Vicki Brandt]

And you didn't mean a single one.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

The important thing is he thinks I did.

[Vicki Brandt]

Yeah, he does.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Now, what's the matter with you, Vicky?

[Vicki Brandt]

Him?

[Gary Marlowe]

Him.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

You falling for that half, man?

[Vicki Brandt]

Shut up.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Now, wait a minute.

[Vicki Brandt]

I'm working this con game with you. That doesn't mean I have to like it what?

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

But on this sudden distaste.

[Vicki Brandt]

I just got a mental picture of Jimmy when he finds out that you and I are phony.

[Pepsi Cola Advertiser]

Really?

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Was he heartbroken?

[Vicki Brandt]

Why don't you?

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Ah, the tears were streaming down his face. Touching sight.

[Vicki Brandt]

Doc. What do you use for a heart?

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

A pump composed of animal tissue, like every other human being.

[Vicki Brandt]

Don't flatter yourself.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

All right, I'll change that. Like every other animal in the jungle you call civilization, Doc. The survival of the fittest. The strong eat the weak. I'm strong, Vicki. The kid's a sucker. The fact he's a cripple doesn't change that. Simply makes him better bait to lure on the healthy suckers.

[Vicki Brandt]

Okay, Doc, no lectures.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Whatever you say, Vicky. Just don't turn into a sucker yourself.

[Vicki Brandt]

It's a little late for me to change sides. I guess.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

That's right. So snap out of it, Vicki. Two more days, we head for New York.

[Vicki Brandt]

Who is it?

[Jimmy Dover]

Me, Jimmy.

[Vicki Brandt]

Sure, Jimmy, sure. The door's not locked.

[Jimmy Dover]

I thought you'd be in the club car.

[Vicki Brandt]

Got my own club car right here in my own compartment.

[Jimmy Dover]

Both, I see. Do you get train sick, Is that why.

[Vicki Brandt]

No, I just like a drink now and then. Nothing wrong with that, is it?

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Of course not.

[Jimmy Dover]

Vicki, if you want me to go.

[Vicki Brandt]

Why should I want you to go? Sit down. Look at the scenery. It goes by.

[Jimmy Dover]

I've just been talking to Dr. Whalen.

[Vicki Brandt]

Dr. Whalen. That calls for another drink. You want one?

[Jimmy Dover]

Vicki, don't you think you've had enough?

[Vicki Brandt]

I've had enough or something. But it's not this.

[Jimmy Dover]

Okay?

[Vicki Brandt]

What you looking at?

[Jimmy Dover]

The countryside.

[Vicki Brandt]

Oh.

[Jimmy Dover]

Makes me kind of ashamed of myself.

[Vicki Brandt]

You ashamed?

[Jimmy Dover]

Look at it, Vicki. Wide and rolling. Those wheat fields. Pretty in the sun, aren't they?

[Vicki Brandt]

So pretty.

[Gary Marlowe]

The doctor's right.

[Vicki Brandt]

The dark lick. Oh, yes. Dr. Wayne.

[Jimmy Dover]

Vicki. Vicki, I've decided something. This country is big enough for everything. Everybody. The mountains we went through, the plains will be rolling over soon. There's room in it for every man, even a guy like me. A half. Sorry, Vicky.

[Vicki Brandt]

The doc told you that, huh?

[Jimmy Dover]

Yeah, but I added something of my own. Vicki, this country is big, but it needs me. I'm alive. I've got something to give it. Me and a million other men and women like me. Trouble is, it's kind of slow to wake up to the fact. Sort of stupid. But I'm gonna help smarten it up.

[Vicki Brandt]

You are?

[Jimmy Dover]

Sure, Vicki. And you too.

[Vicki Brandt]

You know something, Jimmy? You know who's stupid?

[Jimmy Dover]

No, Vicki. Who?

[Pepsi Cola Advertiser]

You.

[Vicki Brandt]

You're stupid.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Stupid.

[Vicki Brandt]

Stupid and a sucker. Oh, what a sucker. You're not a strong one. You're not like the Doc. You're not like me. Strong ones, that's me.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Vicki, what are you talking about?

[Vicki Brandt]

The doc, he couldn't even give you a prescription to buy a bandage in a drugstore.

[Jimmy Dover]

Vicki, why you.

[Vicki Brandt]

Listen to me tell you a beautiful story about a rat. A pretty rat. You think I'm pretty, don't you? Jim?

[Jimmy Dover]

Now Vicky makes sense.

[Vicki Brandt]

I wish I didn't. I wish I didn't, but I do. Jimmy, our organization is a phony. And the Doc is a phony. And I'm a phony.

[Jimmy Dover]

What are you saying?

[Vicki Brandt]

What am I saying? Down off that crutch of yours and I'll tell you.

[Jimmy Dover]

Operator, I'm in a railroad station. I only have eight minutes. I don't know the number, but I've got to talk to counter spy headquarters in Washington D.C. Mr. David Harding.

[David Harding]

Mr. Peters, Call Mr. Harding right away. Mr. Peters, call Mr. Harding right away.

[Counterspy Agent]

Mrs. Peters. Dave.

[David Harding]

Yes, Peters. Has anything come in on the investigation of that benefit for the disabled?

[Counterspy Agent]

No, Chief. You said it was just routine.

[David Harding]

Well, it's not routine anymore. Bring whatever you've got to my office.

[Narrator/Announcer]

We've got to go to work fast. Back to counterspy in just a moment.

[Pepsi Cola Advertiser]

But first, Pepsi Cola hits a spot too. Full glasses, that's a lot. Lots more value, lots more zest. Why take less when Pepsi's best?

[Narrator/Announcer]

More and more among fellows and girls, among mothers and dads. You hear that sane and sensible question? Why take less when Pepsi is best? No budget, no allowance. Ever had a better friend than tangy sparkling Pepsi Cola. Because one big 12 ounce Pepsi bottle gives you two delicious drinks that's twice as much tangy tape. Twice as much delicious Pepsi to go just twice as far. That's why more and more families say why take let when Pepsi's best? Yes, families like yours and mine, families all over America, they're all saying why take let's when Pepsi's best Pepsi Cola hits the spot.

[Pepsi Cola Advertiser]

Tastes terrific when you're hot. More and better than the rest. Why take less when Pepsi's best?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Today, tomorrow always get America's biggest cola value. Take home a carton of six big big Pepsi bottles. Insist on Pepsi at the store and say Pepsi at the fountain, say Pepsi at the stand say Pepsi Whenever you reach for refreshment, Remember why take less when Pepsi's best. And now back to Counterspy. Brent are in a corridor of a large New York hotel. Jimmy raises his good arm to Knock on the door of room 302. Ben Barton.

[Jimmy Dover]

Sure you want to go through with the city?

[Vicki Brandt]

I'm sure.

[David Harding]

Come in.

[Jimmy Dover]

Mr. Hardy?

[David Harding]

That's right, Mr. Dover. Come in.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Sit down.

[Jimmy Dover]

This is Ms. Vicki Brent I told you about. Yes.

[David Harding]

Won't you sit down, Ms. Brent?

[Vicki Brandt]

Oh, yeah. Thanks.

[David Harding]

Why not sit back, Ms. Brandt? You don't look very comfortable perched on the edge of that chair.

[Vicki Brandt]

I'm a little nervous.

[Jimmy Dover]

No, no, it's all right.

[David Harding]

Vicky, this is my assistant, Mr. Peters. Ms. Brent.

[Gary Marlowe]

Mr. Dover.

[David Harding]

Here you do, Mr. Peters. Now, Mr. Dover, let's listen to you. What about this phony benefit you called me about?

[Jimmy Dover]

Well, I told you about Dr. Weyland and my part in it sketchily.

[David Harding]

Yes, well, we've already investigated Wayland. He has a long record as a confidence man and a chiseling promoter.

[Jimmy Dover]

Well, I think Vicki, I mean, Ms. Brent, can give you a better picture of the setup than I can.

[David Harding]

Well, Ms. Brent.

[Vicki Brandt]

First, Mr. Harding, I want to get one thing straight.

[Jimmy Dover]

Yes?

[Vicki Brandt]

Jimmy's got a little blind spot about me. This isn't the first fake deal I've been in. The Doc didn't con me into it. I knew what it was all about from the start.

[David Harding]

I'm glad you said that, Ms. Brent. It's a good beginning.

[Vicki Brandt]

What?

[David Harding]

We've been looking you up, too, Peter.

[Narrator/Announcer]

The Courier Brent. And it's Barry and it's Brandon. Indicted for racetrack swindle. Suspended sentence. Indicted. A suspect in fur theft. Probation and some more.

[Vicki Brandt]

I couldn't have hidden it if I wanted to.

[David Harding]

Well, the important thing is you didn't want to. Now, will you tell your story?

[Vicki Brandt]

Well, Doc Whelan got the idea to promote this benefit for disabled people. He called me in on the deal and I went for it. Jimmy was hired by the Doc. And the doc gave him a song and dance about useful work. And what a great project it was. Make the people aware of the ableness of the disabled.

[Jimmy Dover]

And I went for it hook, line and sinker.

[Narrator/Announcer]

No reason you shouldn't, Mr. Dover. It's a great idea.

[David Harding]

I'm keeping that in mind. Go ahead, Ms. Brant.

[Vicki Brandt]

Well, with Jimmy to go around with them and soften them up. The Doc promoted half the big names in Hollywood. They.

[Jimmy Dover]

Well, say it, Vicki. They'd take one look at me and drown in their own pity.

[Vicki Brandt]

I'm sorry, Jim.

[Jimmy Dover]

And I was supposed to pull the same stunt with the Broadway and radio stars. Only I'm not supposed to know that's what it is.

[David Harding]

We'll come back to that, Jimmy. Go on Ms. Brent, the doc set

[Vicki Brandt]

up a phony outfit. The Institute for the Disabled. Chartered in some state out west.

[David Harding]

Yes. With himself as the sole trustee for the institute. Yes, we've checked that.

[Vicki Brandt]

That's right. He was going to send a check for the proceeds of the benefit to the Institute all right. And be there himself to receive it.

[Narrator/Announcer]

He expected to get away with something that raw?

[Vicki Brandt]

No, Mr. Peters. But he expected to be out of the country by the time it was found out.

[David Harding]

Well, how far has the organization gone?

[Vicki Brandt]

All the way. Tickets, advertising. He's even got a Coliseum hall lined up. Now he just wants to line up some more names.

[Narrator/Announcer]

I notice he's scaled the prices on the tickets from ten dollars up to a thousand. He's no placa.

[David Harding]

Anything else, Ms. Brent?

[Vicki Brandt]

No, that's it. I'm glad it's finished and I guess

[Jimmy Dover]

I'm kind of sorry.

[Vicki Brandt]

What?

[Jimmy Dover]

Well, at least somebody was interested in guys like me finding out that disabled guys can do lots of jobs as well as they did before they were cracked up.

[Vicki Brandt]

Jimmy, don't say that.

[Jimmy Dover]

You know, it's funny. The only guy interested was a crook and now he won't be around.

[David Harding]

Jimmy, I think he may be for a little while.

[Gary Marlowe]

What?

[Vicki Brandt]

I don't get it, Mr. Hardy.

[David Harding]

When we make an arrest, it's for the good of society. But I'm not sure this case is as simple as that.

[Jimmy Dover]

Well, I don't understand, Mr. Hardy.

[David Harding]

Well, I may be sticking my neck out, but if we plan the how and when of Dr. Whelan's arrest, we'd be doing a lot more for society than we would by picking him up right now.

[Narrator/Announcer]

How's that, Mr. Harding?

[David Harding]

I've got an idea that might work if Jimmy and Vicki will cooperate.

[Jimmy Dover]

Oh, anything you say, Mr. Harding.

[David Harding]

There'll be some risk.

[Jimmy Dover]

Vicki.

[Vicki Brandt]

I've gone along with you this far, Jimmy. I'll go all the way.

[Jimmy Dover]

Good.

[David Harding]

Now, make yourself comfortable. I'll tell you my plan.

[Vicki Brandt]

Gee, what a crowd, Jimmy. I never figured they'd turn out like this. The Coliseum's jam.

[Jimmy Dover]

Yeah, but I'm wondering, where's Dr. Whalen?

[Vicki Brandt]

He'll be here. Stop worrying.

[Jimmy Dover]

Well, Mr. Harding's been swell about this. I'd hate for him to get me jam. So you don't think Doc Whmon's wise, do you, Jimmy?

[Vicki Brandt]

You don't think I tipped him?

[Jimmy Dover]

Oh, no, no, Vicky. I know you couldn't. What I. What I think about you? Well, a guy like me shouldn't.

[Vicki Brandt]

Jimmy. How do you know I couldn't cross Out. Tell me.

[Jimmy Dover]

Oh, Vicky.

[Gary Marlowe]

Oh.

[Jimmy Dover]

Oh, there's Doc. Women, I guess.

[Vicki Brandt]

He just came in looking so happy.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Hello, Jimmy.

[Narrator/Announcer]

And Vicki.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Splendid crowd, splendid.

[Jimmy Dover]

Where were you, Doctor? We were getting worried.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Just checking up at the box office. Jimmy, don't you think it's time Gary Marlo started the program?

[Jimmy Dover]

Yeah, sure, Doc, I'll tell.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

He's right over there.

[Jimmy Dover]

Say, Mr. Marlow.

[Gary Marlowe]

Oh, yes, Jimmy.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You want me to begin?

[Jimmy Dover]

Yeah, right away. Oh, and Mr. Marlowe, don't forget that first guest. He'll. He'll be kind of a surprise for everybody.

[Gary Marlowe]

How could I forget him? Well, here I go.

[Jimmy Dover]

Good luck, Mr. Marlow.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Going to start, Jimmy?

[Jimmy Dover]

Yeah, right away. Dr. Wayland, let's sit here close and enjoy the show.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

I intend to. We put a lot of work in it.

[Vicki Brandt]

We've all put a lot of work in this, Doc.

[Pepsi Cola Advertiser]

Thank you.

[Director]

Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. Thank you.

[Gary Marlowe]

Before we begin the show, there's a special guest I'd like to introduce right now as he has to leave shortly on urgent business. In fact, this gentleman is always on urgent business. Ladies and gentlemen, I'm proud to present the chief of the United states counter

[Director]

spies, Mr. David Hardy.

[Gary Marlowe]

Hardy.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Jimmy, how did this Happen?

[Gary Marlowe]

Special guest, Dr. Whalen.

[Jimmy Dover]

I thought it was great we could get him. He doesn't make many public appearances.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Ah, yes, great.

[Director]

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Mr. Marlow, later on, I want to ask you about a trade secret. In those western films of yours. How do you get 50 to 100 shots out of one six shooter revolver? The Counter spies could use a trick like that. But seriously, ladies and gentlemen, I am proud to be here for the purpose of this benefit is of major importance to America. It's wonderful that more and more of us realize that the disabled can take their places as useful citizens. This occasion is to see that they get their chance. Not as a charity, but as a right. And now, will the organizers of this great event come over here, both of you. Dr. Hobart Whalen.

[Dr. Hobart Whelan]

Thank you, Mr. Hardy.

[Director]

And Jimmy Dover. Now I have a surprise for the audience. An actual arrest here on the platform. Ladies and gentlemen, splendid as this affair is, it has one black mark. It was organized by a confident man, a swindler, a crook. This man here, Dr. Hobart Wayland. Jimmy, I want you to arrest him.

[David Harding]

I'm getting up.

[Pepsi Cola Advertiser]

This crutch is good for something besides cleaving us.

[Director]

Pretty good for a supposedly disabled man, wasn't it? Now, while my assistant Harry Peters helps Mr. Dover remove the prisoner, I'll tell you the audience why we did not cancel this benefit weeks ago. Even though we knew the promoter was a crook, we didn't stop it because the cause is close to our heart. The Counterspies employ many so called disabled men and women. They hold key positions in our code

[Narrator/Announcer]

division, communications and others.

[Director]

Though we allowed this benefit to go on. And you may rest assured that at the suggestion of the President's Committee on National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week, your money will go to a legitimate organization interested in its problem. And now, here is Gary Marlow with the rest of the show.

[Jimmy Dover]

Golly, Mr. Harding, that was wonderful, wasn't it?

[Vicki Brandt]

It certainly was.

[David Harding]

How's Waylon?

[Narrator/Announcer]

He's unhappy, Dave. Two of our agents are taking him down to our field office to be booked.

[David Harding]

Well, then that winds up things there, Jimmy.

[Vicki Brandt]

Except for me, Mr. Harding.

[Jimmy Dover]

Yeah. What about Vicki, Mr. Hardy?

[David Harding]

Well, she'll have to testify against the doctor, of course.

[Jimmy Dover]

What will that mean?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Jail as a material witness.

[Jimmy Dover]

Jail?

[David Harding]

Of course, if someone would accept responsibility, Vicki could be paroled in his custody.

[Jimmy Dover]

Oh, I'll do that, Mr. Hardy.

[Vicki Brandt]

Jimmy, you don't.

[Jimmy Dover]

Oh, Vicki, we've stuck together this long. I can stand it a little longer if you can. Okay, Mr. Hardy?

[David Harding]

Okay, Jimmy. In fact, from the sound of things, I'd say very okay. And by the way, when you find time, get in touch with me about becoming a regular counter spy, will you, Jimmy? Ladies and gentlemen, it's an honor to present the following message, especially prepared for this counter spy broadcast by the Honorable Alvin W. Barclay, Vice President of the United States.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Today's disabled veterans and handicapped workers have the full support of the United States government in their quest for suitable employment opportunities. The President of the United States has established a special civilian committee to lend assistance in discharging this national responsibility of providing work for qualified handicapped men and women. The response by businessmen, industrialists and labor officials has been highly gratifying. But we must intensify our effort so that a war wound or an industrial accident is not a one way ticket to the sidelines. I ask your continued interest in those handicapped workers presently employed and added opportunities for those seeking work. I urge all Americans to remember that ability is much more important than disability.

[David Harding]

Thank you very much, Mr. Vice President. Next week's counterspy case deals with the teenage terrors who worshiped a heel. The stolen loop that was paid for with a wet handkerchief and hard cash. And the underworld mobster who pulled a switch and continued to be a right guy. Be sure to tune in next Tuesday

[Narrator/Announcer]

to the case of the Flatbush Fagan on Counterspy. And remember, when your friends drop in, be generous, but be thrifty too. Serve plenty of delicious Pepsi Cola. Pepsi's big 12 ounce bottle gives you not just one sparkling glassful, but two. Get a carton of six and serve 12 delicious drinks. Yes, Pepsi is America's biggest cola value. You get twice the tangy taste, twice the refreshment, twice the Pepsi. So why take less when Pepsi is best? Whenever you reach for refreshment, remember Pepsi

[Pepsi Cola Advertiser]

Cola hits the spot. Two full glasses, that's a lot lot more value, lot more zest. Why take less when pepsi zest?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Tonight's CounterSpy program originated in New York, was directed by William M. Sweet, dramatized by Palmer Thompson and featured Don McLaughlin and Mandel Kramer with music by Jesse Crawford. Counterspy is a Phillips H. Lord production for Pepsi Cola. Enjoy some Pepsi Ice cold tonight.

[Jimmy Dover]

Foreign.

[Narrator/Announcer]

What's up everybody?

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[Adam Graham]

Welcome back. Well, I have to say that Alvin Barkley has never sounded so much like Mandel Kramer before. This does actually happen in old time radio on occasion where you would have a major public official like J. Edgar Hoover wanting to speak to a program's content, but you have an actor go ahead and read a statement from them instead. And this can be to simplify the process and also to provide the best quality that they can. If the political leader is not able to be in a station at the time of the broadcast, which is usually it's not going to work out that you have to go through a process to get a recording made and transmitted in time for the broadcast. And on those occasions where I've heard like a pre recorded message put in, there is a visible drop in audio quality. Plus it makes the politician sound good. I can imagine the unobservant listener at home saying, yeah, I thought Barclay might be too old for the job, he's in his 70s. But he certainly sounds vigorous. Of course on other programs like there was an episode of Family Theater where they had someone appearing that way, they noted that the person was impersonated. Now of course this is yet another program with a very strong PSA focus and certainly raising a very important issue about the need of disabled veterans to find not just support, but the ability to work with dignity. This has been a message that you can hear across multiple programs in multiple different genres, and counterspy was carrying that message. They, of course, became involved in a somewhat improvised, probable way. While it was true that there were some shady charities running around in the 1940s, there was no organization that did preemptive investigations of charitable events. Certainly the crooks would have been aware of this, if nothing else. And even if you were, you know, as we have said a few times, imagine that counterspy is the FBI. Imagine J. Edgar Hoover getting involved with routine background checks, or any FBI director getting involved in those sort of things. So this is yet another case of counterspy really stretching its jurisdiction in order to tell the story it wanted to tell, which was an important one. Alright, well, now it's time to thank our Patreon Supporter of the day. And I want to thank David, patreon Supporter since January 2019, currently supporting the podcast at the first mate level of $7.14 or more per month. Thanks so much for your support, David. That will do it for today. If you're enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software and be sure to rate and review the podcast wherever you download it from. We will be back next Saturday with another episode of counterspy, but join us back here on the Great Adventurers of Old Time Radio on Tuesday for Tarzan and on the Great Detectives of Old Time Radio. Join us on Monday for the Saint. In the meantime, do send your comments to [e-mail] Follow us on Twitter at radiodetectives and check us out on Instagram. Instagram.com Great detectives from Boise, Idaho, this is your host Adam Graham signing off.

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