Counterspy: The Housing Racket (A0078)

Summary

---

Podcast Summary: The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio

Episode: Counterspy – The Housing Racket (A0078)

Host: Adam Graham
Original Air Date (drama): May 23, 1948
Podcast Date: April 11, 2026

---

Overview

This episode features a vintage radio drama from the series Counterspy, titled “The Housing Racket” (originally known as “The Bunco Builders”). Host Adam Graham introduces and comments on the episode, focusing on its depiction of post-war housing fraud and its intersection with broader issues of consumer protection. The show dramatizes the plight of returning veterans facing hazardous, shoddy housing and the collective action they take, which ultimately attracts both legal and criminal intrigue.

---

Key Discussion Points and Episode Breakdown

Setting the Scene: Postwar Housing Crisis

• The episode opens in the aftermath of WWII, where demand for new homes—especially from returning veterans—is immense.
• Many rapid-construction housing developments have serious quality issues, leading to health hazards and buyer frustration.

Notable Quote
“You feel so powerless. When they're so young, they can't tell you what hurts.”
— Edie, discussing her sick child and the poor house conditions (04:44)

The Gorham Family's Plight (04:35–07:59)

• Andy and Edie Gorham’s child, Kathy, falls ill, likely due to their damp, newly-built home.
• The family can't afford both further payments on their failing house and much-needed medical recovery in a better climate.
• Andy resolves to stop mortgage payments, considering the money better spent on Kathy’s health—and sparks a neighborhood revolution.

Notable Quote
“Afford to lose Kathy, Andy?”
— Edie, expressing the stakes of their decision (06:50)

Neighborhood Meeting: Organizing for Justice (08:29–10:42)

• Andy gathers his neighbors, all victims of shoddy construction and high costs, to organize collective action:
  • List all home defects: “Green wood, flooded cellars, crumbling foundations, poor flashings, bad drainage...”
  • Decide to withhold mortgage payments until repairs are made or homes are improved.
  • Plan to seek legal advice and send complaints to federal authorities.

Notable Quote
“If we all stick together…I doubt Mr. Hobbs will foreclose on 45 houses at once.”
— Andy Gorham (09:49)

Introducing Law Enforcement: Counterspy's Involvement (11:12–12:57)

• The Veterans Administration, FHA, and the National Association of Home Builders urge Counterspy agents David Harding and Harry Peters to investigate—though they note a lack of clear criminal activity at first.
• Harding justifies involvement based on the potential for criminal fraud and the reputation of the homebuilding industry.

Notable Quote
“There's no visible cause for criminal proceedings... Still, two agencies have already called asking us to investigate.”
— Harry Peters (11:49)

The Confrontation with the Developer (15:14–16:35)

• Andy confronts Clifford Hobbs, the real estate agent:
  • Presents all neighbors’ returned mortgage statements.
  • Hobbs attempts to offer Andy a private fix in exchange for dropping the collective action.
  • Andy refuses: “Our only strength is in sticking together.”

Notable Quote
“The only deal I'll make will involve all 45 homeowners. When you're ready to talk one like that, call me up. Until then, you can whistle for your money.”
— Andy Gorham (16:30)

Hard Turns: The Mob Connection & Criminal Escalation (17:10–25:48)

• Investigation reveals the real estate company is secretly owned by Chris Mankato, a notorious racketeer.
  • Mankato’s history: rum-running, policy rackets, black markets.
• Mankato orders intimidation (and eventual abduction) of Andy Gorham to crush the neighborhood resistance.
• As pressure builds, Harding and Peters race to uncover fraudulent applications to the government and gather evidence for criminal prosecution.

Notable Quote
“Take away the head, you take away the power. See the deal? No?”
— Chris Mankato, threatening Andy (25:13)

Resolution: Justice Delivered (25:49–26:41)

• Counterspy agents rescue Andy just before he is harmed.
• Mankato and his enforcer are arrested for fraud and false government statements.

Notable Quote
“I'm sure they'll find it no trouble at all to convict you of false statements and fraud. Take them away, Peters.”
— David Harding (26:23)

Epilogue: Industry and Public Responsibility (28:31–29:56)

• Special message from Frank W. Cordright, VP of the National Association of Home Builders:
  • Warns buyers to verify builder credentials and home quality.
  • Association promises continued integrity in homebuilding for veterans and public alike.
  • Closing note: “Be sure you're buying good value and quality.”

---

Notable Quotes & Moments (with Timestamps)

• “You feel so powerless. When they're so young, they can't tell you what hurts.”
  — Edie, on Kathy's illness (04:44)
• “Caveat emptor. Let the buyer beware. But in a tight market like housing, I think the seller should have some responsibility for what he sells.”
  — Andy Gorham (17:57)
• “The only deal I'll make will involve all 45 homeowners. When you're ready to talk one like that, call me up. Until then you can whistle for your money.”
  — Andy Gorham (16:30)
• “Take away the head, you take away the power.”
  — Chris Mankato (25:13)
• “Don't buy a new home without knowing everything about it.”
  — Frank W. Cordright, NAHB (28:35)

---

Host Adam Graham’s Commentary (31:40–38:32)

On Story & Execution

• Adam praises the episode’s depiction of a real postwar issue (“effective at establishing this problem and what was going on and what some people might have done about it”), but critiques the show for shoehorning the counterspy angle:
  • “The tortured logic used to insert Counterspy into this case is kind of stunning.” (31:45)
  • Notes the conflict would have fitted Mr. District Attorney or another legal drama better.

On Villainy and Escalation

• Comments on the rapid shift from civil dispute to criminal conspiracy:
  • “Our mob boss apparently has only two settings for persuasion, either bribery or quick execution...”
  • Criticizes the abruptness of this escalation and its fit within the series’ usual remit.

On Production Details

• Mentions issues with sound design, particularly mismatched volume levels and underwhelming sound effects—especially in light of listener feedback on past episodes.

---

Important Segments & Timestamps

| Time | Segment | |-----------|-------------------------------------------------------| | 04:35 | Introduction of Gorham family’s housing woes | | 08:29 | Neighborhood organizes for collective action | | 11:12 | Counterspy brought into the case | | 15:14 | Confrontation with developer Clifford Hobbs | | 17:10 | Counterspy agents begin investigation | | 19:00 | Evidence of fraud and racketeer ownership revealed | | 25:33 | Gorham threatened and rescued | | 28:31 | Frank W. Cordright’s message to home buyers | | 31:40 | Adam’s commentary on episode and fit with the series |

---

Takeaways

• Social Commentary: The drama effectively highlights the real perils of postwar housing shortages, poor construction, and the need for consumer vigilance.
• Collective Solidarity: The homeowners’ united stance leads to investigations and eventually exposes high-level fraud.
• Limits of Genre: Despite its relevance, the story awkwardly fits the “Counterspy” crimefighting formula—an observation echoed in Adam Graham’s critique.

---

Conclusion

This episode of Counterspy stands as both a time capsule of 1940s postwar anxieties (especially regarding veterans' housing and consumer rights) and a primer in the risks of formulaic storytelling. Host Adam Graham’s commentary, along with dramatized industry warnings, encourage viewers—then and now—to investigate thoroughly before making life-changing purchases.

Memorable Final Note:
“Don't buy a new home without knowing everything about it.”
— Frank W. Cordright (28:35)

---

Transcript

[Chelsea Handler]

This is Chelsea Handler from Dear Chelsea after the Big Game like most people, I kept thinking about the commercials and there was one that stayed with me. It was from the Blue Square Alliance Against Hate, and it wasn't loud or flashy. It showed a Jewish kid being targeted at school and another student who chose not to ignore it. As someone who is Jewish, that moment felt very real to me. Not dramatic, just familiar. And what struck me was how clearly it showed that hate doesn't always announce itself, but the impact is still huge. If you saw the Blue Square spot during the Big Game, it's worth thinking about. And if you want to show support, sharing the Blue Square is one small way to do that.

[Commercial Announcer]

Introducing Home Care Plus, a new subscription service from Lowe's that helps make life easier by giving members a hand with home maintenance. Let Lowe's tackle the tasks you keep meaning to do, like electric dryer, vent cleaning, replacing hard to reach light bulbs, and more. Subscribe to Home Care plus for just $99 a year and consider your to do list done. Members get more at Lowe's. Available and select zip codes only. Cancel anytime. Non refundable fee. Product purchase required. Terms and service restrictions apply. Details@lowe's.com Terms subject to change.

[Adam Graham]

Welcome to the great adventurers 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 counterspy. But but first I do want to encourage you. If you're enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software. And today's program is also 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 or become one of our ongoing Patreon supporters for as little as $2 per month at patreon.greatdetactives.net well, today's episode brings us to of 1948 and it's worth noting what a significant gap there is in the series as there was only one episode before this from the post war era and that one was a rehearsal. However, this starts one of those really wonderful strings where we actually have consecutive episodes for three weeks in a row. This was actually the 303rd episode of Counterspy. The original air date May 23, 1948. And this is the Housing racket, but I like the slightly less popular but better sounding the Bunco Builders.

[Narrator/Announcer (David Harding Counterspy)]

David Harding Counterspired presented by the makers of Old Nick and Bit of Honey Candy Bar. And today we're happy to be able to repeat a special money saving offer. For all you folks who enjoy Old Nick and Bit of Honey candy bars.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

We offer a 13 inch stainless steel slicing knife guaranteed to equal knives selling at 75 cents to $1.

[Narrator/Announcer (David Harding Counterspy)]

Sent to you for only 25 cents in coin with two wrappers from either Old Nick or Bit of Honey candy bars. Here's where to send your order. Send to old Mick, box 144, New York 8, New York.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

We'll repeat this address later, so have a pencil and paper ready to get

[Narrator/Announcer (David Harding Counterspy)]

the address correct and listen later for complete details.

[Andy Gorham]

Washington calling David Harding, counter spy. Washington calling David Harding, counter spy.

[David Harding]

Harding counter spy. Calling Washington.

[Narrator/Announcer (David Harding Counterspy)]

David Harding, chief United States counter spies. Especially appointed to investigate and combat the enemies of our country both at home and abroad. And to secure for every American the rights which are his under our Constitution.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

Honey, and I didn't expect you to come home.

[Andy Gorham]

Well, I couldn't do any work after you called and told me about Kathy.

[David Harding]

How is she?

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

The doctor's still with her. Andy.

[Andy Gorham]

He.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

He thinks it might be pneumonia.

[Andy Gorham]

Well, how did she look?

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

Feverish. She was whimpering when the doctor came. You feel so powerless. When they're so young, they can't tell you what hurts.

[Chelsea Handler (Kohler Ambassador Segment)]

What's wrong.

[David Harding]

Yeah, I know.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

Andy, she'll be all right, won't you?

[Andy Gorham]

Of course she will, darling. Now, why don't you rest for a while? You didn't sleep at all last night. Neither did you. Let's not argue the point.

[David Harding]

You. Oh, hello, Mr. Garm.

[Andy Gorham]

Hello, doctor.

[David Harding]

You didn't have to come home from work.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

I called him down.

[Andy Gorham]

I wanted to.

[Narrator/Closing Remarks]

The babies.

[Andy Gorham]

Well, how is she, doctor?

[David Harding]

She's holding her own. Mr. Garam, I'd like to order a portable oxygen tent just as a precaution.

[Andy Gorham]

Order whatever you need.

[David Harding]

It may be a little expensive, doc.

[Andy Gorham]

It doesn't matter.

[Narrator/Announcer (David Harding Counterspy)]

I know.

[David Harding]

I just wanted to keep everything straight. Now, is there another room in the house that we could move her to? Well, sure.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

Well, what do you want to move her for, doctor?

[David Harding]

Well, I'd like a place that isn't quite as damp and drafty.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

Oh, that's the driest room we have, except for the kitchen.

[David Harding]

I see. Well, we'll manage all right.

[Andy Gorham]

This whole place drips water three days after every rain.

[Narrator/Announcer (David Harding Counterspy)]

Really?

[David Harding]

I thought these houses were just built.

[Andy Gorham]

They were, but not very well. Oh, well, don't wrong or we'll move

[David Harding]

her to the hospital. Yeah, sure.

[Andy Gorham]

Say, tell me, doctor, this house has been damp and drafty from almost the first month we moved In. Could living here have caused Kathy's pneumonia?

[David Harding]

Well, now, I wouldn't like to be pinned down as to the cause, but. Well, I'd certainly say that living here hasn't helped to avoid it.

[Andy Gorham]

I see.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

Kathy. Kathy will get better, won't she?

[David Harding]

Yes, but.

[Andy Gorham]

But what, Doctor?

[David Harding]

Well, if you can manage it, I think she should get out of this climate for a while. I should suggest the south for a month or two.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

The South?

[Andy Gorham]

Thanks, doctor. We'll take your advice, Andy. We'll talk it over. Edie.

[David Harding]

Well, now, I'll get back to my Pat.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

Andy, we. We can't afford a trip south at this time.

[Andy Gorham]

You bet we can.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

Where will the money come from?

[Andy Gorham]

From this dream house we bought. We're not gonna make any more payments on it. We'll use the money to send you and Kathy south for a while.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

Yes, but. But what about the money we've already put into the house?

[Andy Gorham]

Well, I'll think of something.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

Oh, darling, we can't afford to lose all that, can we?

[Andy Gorham]

Afford to lose Kathy, Andy? I'm sorry, honey. I shouldn't have said that. I just don't want you to worry about anything except her.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

If we're not going to give Mr. Hobbs any more money, what will we do when we get the mortgage statement?

[Andy Gorham]

I'm not sure, darling, but that's not your worry.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

All right, Andy.

[Andy Gorham]

Now you start planning for that trip south. The minute the doctor says okay, you and Kathy go.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

Andy, you didn't have to get a roommate on the train. We could have gone by day coach.

[Andy Gorham]

Edie, it's already paid for. Don't fret about it. Enjoy it.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

All right.

[Andy Gorham]

Kathy looks good, doesn't she?

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

Oh, I hope she takes the trip all right.

[Andy Gorham]

She's starting off okay. Sleeping like a log on that seat.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

Well, this has been a lot of excitement for a one year old.

[Andy Gorham]

Yeah, I guess so.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

Oh, darling, I wish you could go with us.

[David Harding]

So do I.

[Andy Gorham]

Somebody has to work.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

What are you doing about the mortgage payments, Andy?

[Andy Gorham]

Well, I've been talking to some of our neighbors in the development and they've been stuck just like we have. Together, we may work something out.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

Don't get into any trouble, Andy.

[Andy Gorham]

I won't, darling, but don't you worry about it. Just have a good time. Well, now, I be better get off this train or I'll be going with you.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

Goodbye, Andy.

[Andy Gorham]

Goodbye, darling. Mr. Bradley? Andy Gorham. Yes. Can you come over to my place tonight about 8:00'? Clock? Yeah, that's right. See what we can do about These salt boxes that were sold to us as houses. Good. I'll expect you,

[David Harding]

Harold.

[Andy Gorham]

Andy.

[David Harding]

Hey.

[Andy Gorham]

Tonight okay for you? Yeah, yeah. My place. Right. Be seeing you, Tommy. Andy, we're going to meet here tonight. Count on you. Good. Eight o'. Clock. Bye. I know some of us here paid a little more for our houses than the rest of us. A larger house or more land. But whatever you paid, I think we're all agreed that it was too much for what we got.

[David Harding]

No question about that.

[Andy Gorham]

Now our individual complaints are pretty similar. Green wood, flooded cellars, crumbling foundations, poor flashings, bad drainage. Well, you know them as well as I do.

[David Harding]

Perhaps better, Andy. Perhaps.

[Andy Gorham]

But the point is the majority of them can be repaired.

[David Harding]

At whose expense? Yeah, I don't want to sink any. Any more money into my house.

[Andy Gorham]

You won't have to, Tommy. At least I hope not.

[David Harding]

Then who will, Mr. Goran?

[Andy Gorham]

If we all stick together, Mr. Brantley, I think we can make the Oak Nub Real estate company bear the expense.

[David Harding]

What? You've been drinking, Andy.

[Andy Gorham]

No, I'm serious.

[David Harding]

Yeah, but that's all it is.

[Andy Gorham]

Mr. Hobbs of the real estate company

[David Harding]

has only one interest in these houses now. It's not repairing them, it's collecting on the mortgages.

[Andy Gorham]

Right, Tommy? And that's our weapon. We refuse to pay those mortgages.

[David Harding]

What?

[Andy Gorham]

Until steps are taken to remedy our complaints.

[David Harding]

What about foreclosure?

[Andy Gorham]

Well, that is a possibility, Mr. Bradley, and we should face it. But if we all stick together, I doubt that Mr. Hobbs will foreclose on 45 houses at once.

[David Harding]

Yeah, same. It would certainly be bad publicity if he did.

[Andy Gorham]

Whether or not that will bother him, I don't know. But not getting his money will.

[David Harding]

Can we get in trouble though?

[Andy Gorham]

Yeah, well, to be honest, I'm not sure. I think we should get legal advice and keep the whole affair above board.

[David Harding]

How'd you go about it, Mr. Gorham?

[Andy Gorham]

Well, I believe we should draw up a statement of what we intend to do and why. Then send copies of it to the government housing authorities, the Veterans administration and any other federal and state agencies concerned. Just to get ourselves on the record.

[David Harding]

It's a good idea. Very sound.

[Andy Gorham]

Now after that, we pool our monthly mortgage statements and appoint one man to present them to Mr. Hobbs to tell him that they won't be paid until our homes are made habitable and worth the purchase price agreed on. Now that's the whole idea. How do you feel about it?

[David Harding]

Well, it's certainly better than just putting up with paying for these cracker boxes. I'll Go along with it.

[Andy Gorham]

I'm glad to hear that, Mr. Bradley.

[David Harding]

And I'll make the first motion of this informal association that Andy Gorham be the man we appoint to talk to Mr. Clifford Hobbs.

[Andy Gorham]

All right, all right, I will. And I'll do my best to get more out of him than just conversation.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

Counter spy headquarters. Yes, Mr. Secretary, I'll connect you. Counter Spy Headquarters. Busy. Hold on, please. Yes, Mr. Harding.

[Andy Gorham]

Mr. Peters, please.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

Mr. Peters. Thank you.

[Andy Gorham]

Peters, you come into my office for a minute. Peters. Okay, Chief.

[David Harding]

And bring a copy of that memorandum

[Andy Gorham]

from the Veterans Administration. Which one? That letter from the XGIS who are refusing to honor their mortgage statements. Oh, yes. Be right in, Chief.

[David Harding]

What do you think about it, Peter?

[Andy Gorham]

Well, from the way they describe their

[David Harding]

houses, Chief, I sympathize with them, but I don't see that there's anything we can do. Well, we could conduct an investigation. Of what? There's no visible cause for criminal proceedings, as I know. Still, two agencies have already called asking us to investigate. The Federal Housing Administration and the national association of Home Builders.

[Andy Gorham]

Association of Home Builders.

[David Harding]

That's a private builder's outfit, isn't it? Yes, reputable builders in all large cities. What's their interest in this? Well, a story like this is bound to get publicity. The public will read that publicity and they'll cast all contractors and home builders in the same role as this Oaknub Realty company. They won't differentiate.

[Andy Gorham]

So the national association wants to get

[David Harding]

on record as opposing these practices. That's it. And the fha? They don't think any outfit that can stir up as much resentment as this company did could be completely legitimate. Then we do investigate. I think we should. Peters, I want you to assign two agents to check the companies incorporation papers and any other related documents of public record. Right. Also get train reservations for us to Asheville. We'll question this man who signed this letter for the veterans, this Andrew Gorham.

[Narrator/Announcer (David Harding Counterspy)]

Back to our old Nick, David Harding. Counter Spy case in a moment. Now, I want to tell you folks how you can get one of the most useful knives you've ever had in your home at a fraction of the price you'd expect to pay. It's a handy, helpful slicing knife, nearly 13 inches long with a blade of gleaming lifetime stainless steel. And notice this especially, the blade is hollow ground. Now, if you know knives, you know that hollow grinding makes for a longer lasting, keener edge. And you know it's a process which is usually found only in knives costing $2 or more. Yet you can get this knife for only 25 cents with two wrappers from either Old Nick or Bit of Honey candy bars. Yes. To get your stainless steel slicing knife, just send 25 cents in coin with two Old Nick or Bit of Honey wrappers to old Nick, box 144, New York 8, New York.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

Old Nick, box 144, New York eight, New York.

[Narrator/Announcer (David Harding Counterspy)]

We can make this offer only because we have a special arrangement with a famous cutlery manufacturer. He is the only one in the country who has this new secret process by which long lasting stainless steel can be successfully hollow ground. We guarantee that this stainless steel slicing knife would compare favorably with knives costing 75 cents to $1 even without the special process hollow grinding. But hollow grinding gives this knife longer life, a keener edge and greater usefulness. So when you send in, you're really getting extra value. An outstanding bargain buy. But remember the address. Old Nick, box 144, New York 8 New York. For each stainless steel slicing knife you want, send us two wrappers from either Old Nick or Bit of Honey candy bars and 25 cents in coin. The offer may be withdrawn at any time because the supply is limited. So be sure of your quick Cut slicing knife. Send your order today. Now back to our Old Nick. David Harding COUNTERSPY case.

[Andy Gorham]

Let's drop the act, Mr. Hobbs. You know perfectly well and not a single one of us is satisfied with this house.

[David Harding]

I hope you didn't come in here just to argue.

[Andy Gorham]

No, Mr. Hobbs, I didn't. I came in to give you these. Here.

[David Harding]

What are they?

[Andy Gorham]

A mortgage statement you mailed out a few days ago. All 45 of them.

[David Harding]

What?

[Andy Gorham]

And until you do something about the condition of the Oaknub house at Homes, that's all you're going to get every month. Your statement's back again.

[David Harding]

I'm not sure I understand.

[Andy Gorham]

It's simple enough, Mr. Hobbs. You either take care of the complaints we made about the houses or we refuse to pay for it.

[David Harding]

You can't do that. I'll foreclose on you.

[Andy Gorham]

If you'd like to make 45 foreclosures with the publicity that would result, go ahead.

[David Harding]

I'll take you to court.

[Andy Gorham]

That may do some good. We'll find out in court.

[David Harding]

Now look here, Goram. Isn't there some way we can get together on this thing? Yes. How?

[Andy Gorham]

Start repairs on the houses. All 45.

[David Harding]

Now look, I can't spend the company's money on my own say so. I've got investors and stockholders to think of.

[Andy Gorham]

And we've got families to think of. We paid for decent places to live and we want them now.

[David Harding]

Why don't you be sensible about this, Garam?

[Andy Gorham]

Just what do you consider sensible?

[David Harding]

Well, you made a lot of complaints about your house. Suppose. Suppose I take care of those complaints

[Andy Gorham]

and the other houses in the development?

[David Harding]

Forget them. Worry about yourself.

[Andy Gorham]

Well, that's an attractive offer.

[David Harding]

I know a smart man when I see one. Thanks.

[Andy Gorham]

And I assure you I'm smart enough to know why you're making this offer.

[David Harding]

What do you mean?

[Andy Gorham]

You're not impressed by me. You're impressed by the fact that I'm representing all of the homes you hold mortgages on. Well, I intend to keep it that way since our only strength is in sticking together. Goram, don't be a fool. I'll make my offer even more attractive. You listen to a deal, Mr. Hobbs. The only deal I'll make will involve all 45 homeowners. When you're ready to talk one like that, call me up. Until then you can whistle for your money. Goodbye.

[David Harding]

Not a bad looking house on the surface, chief. Take a closer look, Peters. Some of those clapboards up there are warped. Oh, I didn't notice. Yes? Mr. Andrew Gorham?

[Andy Gorham]

That's right.

[David Harding]

My name is David Harding. This is Mr. Harry Peters. How do you do?

[Andy Gorham]

What can I do for you?

[David Harding]

Our credentials from the United States. Counterspy.

[Andy Gorham]

Oh. Oh, come in.

[David Harding]

Thank you. I imagine you know why we're here.

[Andy Gorham]

Yes, I think so. Won't you sit down? Or isn't that the customary procedure before an arrest?

[David Harding]

Arrest? I think you've got us wrong, Mr. Gorham. We're here just to ask questions.

[Andy Gorham]

Oh, well, go right ahead. We want to stay within the law.

[David Harding]

Well, Mr. Gorham, what do you expect to gain by this?

[Andy Gorham]

Decent homes and good repair.

[David Harding]

You weren't forced into buying this house, were you?

[Andy Gorham]

No. I know, Mr. Harding. Caveat emptor. Let the buyer beware. But in a tight market like housing, I think the seller should have some responsibility for what he sells.

[David Harding]

You got a point there. When did you notice defects beginning to show up in your homes, Mr. Gorham?

[Andy Gorham]

Four or five months after they were built.

[David Harding]

You notified the building company?

[Andy Gorham]

Yes, but they didn't pay any attention until we all got together.

[David Harding]

Oh, you're getting results then.

[Andy Gorham]

Well, not exactly results, but we've made Mr. Hobbs of the Oaknub Company rather unhappy.

[David Harding]

I should imagine he would be.

[Andy Gorham]

He offered to fix up my house and possibly throw in a little money if I'd forget the whole affair.

[David Harding]

Just your house not the others.

[Andy Gorham]

That's right.

[David Harding]

Sounds a little off key, doesn't it, Chief?

[Andy Gorham]

Yeah, I thought so, too.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

If I.

[David Harding]

If it were only faulty construction, Hobbs could take the case to civil court and make some kind of an adjustment. That would be fair all around. Yes, if he's an honest man.

[Andy Gorham]

Well, I know of nothing that could prove he isn't. Well, I don't think a man who

[David Harding]

was on the level would have tried to buy you off.

[Andy Gorham]

I agree, Mr. Peters.

[David Harding]

Mr. Gorham, what did you pay for this house?

[Andy Gorham]

$10,500.

[David Harding]

Are all the houses in the development same price?

[Andy Gorham]

No. They run from $9,500 to $12,500. I see.

[David Harding]

Well, I'd like to run tests of the structural defects in a few of these homes. Have a responsible builder look them over. Do you think that'd be all right with your neighbors?

[Andy Gorham]

I'm sure it would. M. We'll agree to anything to get some action.

[David Harding]

You set that up, will you, Peters? Right, Chief. And, Mr. Gorham, if Mr. Hobbs should get in touch with you with another personal offer, let me know.

[Andy Gorham]

All right, Mr. Harding.

[David Harding]

I can't guarantee results, but I can guarantee you that we'll make a thorough investigation of this whole affair. Hello, Bernie. Oh, Hobbs. Mr. Mankato up yet? Yeah, he's having breakfast in bed. Well, I have to see him right away. He won't like that. Neither do I. But there's a little trouble. Trouble? I thought this setup was strictly legitimate. Well, things go wrong and we put them right. I hope you can. What is it, Barney? Who was it? Hobbs. He wants to see you. I'm sorry to disturb you at this time, Mr. Mankato. Okay, you did. Now, what's on your mind? You got a simple job. There ought to be no problems. I'm afraid there are, though. What's so hard about collecting the mortgages I hold? Simply, they won't pay. What? They're beginning to get wise to the fact that they were stuck with those houses. I'll shed a tear for them. They bought them. They'll pay for them. Strictly legitimate. You want the case to get to court? Ain't gonna get there. They're gonna pay. Not according to Andy Gorham. Who's he? One of the men who bought a house he's representing. A mall. Troublemaker, huh? Well, he's not easy to get along with. We'll see about that, Barney. Yeah. I advise you to be cautious, Mr. Mankato. Keep your advice. All my dough is tied up in those houses. Money. I got the hard Way. Rum running in the 20s, policies in the 30s, black markets during the war. Gonna keep it the hard way if I have to. Well, times have changed, Mr. Mankato. People have different ideas nowadays. Nothing changes. People are the same. They only wear different clothes. You push them around, they do like you say. I push? Yeah. Gorham won't be easy. I tried to buy him off, he wouldn't sell. One of those guys. Yeah, Barney knows how to handle them. He'll still have the others to deal with. Don't be a jerk, Barney. You were with me in that poultry racket in the Bronx. Yeah. What happens when you chop a chicken's head off? He kicks a little and he dies. Get the idea, Hobbs? Don't be too hasty about this, Mr. Mankato. Who's being hasty? Barney picks this guy up, we try to reason with him. If he don't reason, it's his tough luck that he's the head of the chicken. The part that gets chopped off. Well, that fills in the picture with more to right. Goodbye. Hello, Chief. I've got something real interesting for you. I've got something more than interesting, criminal.

[Narrator/Announcer (David Harding Counterspy)]

What?

[David Harding]

I've been over to the local FHA office getting information via teletype from their Washington headquarters.

[Andy Gorham]

You can pin something on the realty company.

[David Harding]

A false statement in their building application to the government. They said those homes they built wouldn't sell for more than $7,500. That's how they got their application approved. I'm not surprised. Why? What have you got? Chief, do you know who holds 90% of the company? Who? Mr. Christopher Mankato. Chris Mankato? The racketeer who said he was going to retire? That's the one.

[Andy Gorham]

Only he doesn't seem to have kept his promise.

[David Harding]

No? At the prices he sold those houses, his profits 200%. That's a racket in anybody's language. We'll close in fast, Peters. So far the company hasn't any idea that we're investigating. We should be able to attach all their files and records for criminal and civil prosecution. What do we go for? Mankato or Hobbs first?

[Narrator/Announcer (David Harding Counterspy)]

Hobbs.

[David Harding]

He signed the building application. He'll lead us to Mankato. What about Andy Gorham, Chief? Ask him to come down here. Start him on a full statement of the whole affair. I'll pay a little visit to Mr. Hobbs. Mr. Harding, I had no idea your organization would be involved in this. It's very unfortunate situation. I'm sure it is. Oh, I can see the viewpoint of Mr. Gorham and the rest of the Homeowners. But I have my stockholders to look out for. And who are they? Why, various people. I can't name them all offhand. You go to great lengths to show your stockholders a profit, don't you, Mr. Hobbs? What do you mean? I have a copy of a building application you made to the government. Oh? You said those houses would sell for $7,500. You charged more than that. Why? A false statement is a serious offense, Mr. Hobbs. A prison sentence goes with it.

[Andy Gorham]

I don't.

[David Harding]

Never mind. I'll take that. Just sit where you are. Hello?

[Andy Gorham]

Open Up Realty Company.

[David Harding]

Oh, yes, Peter.

[Andy Gorham]

Oh, Chief.

[David Harding]

What is it?

[Andy Gorham]

I can't locate Gorham.

[David Harding]

What?

[Andy Gorham]

He left his office to go to lunch. He didn't come back, and he hasn't gone home. I don't like it, Chief, particularly since Mankato's involved.

[David Harding]

We'll find out if he's got anything to do with Gorham's disappearance soon enough. Come over here right away. You've got Hobbs there? I have? I'll give you odds that he tells me everything we want to know before you arrive, including where Mankato is. Won't you, Mr. Hobbs? You know, you're being silly, kid. You ought to listen to reason.

[Andy Gorham]

What's your interest in this?

[David Harding]

Don't be curious. Just be smart. Say the word and you go out of here with a new house and a couple of bucks.

[Andy Gorham]

Well, suppose I did. You think the rest of the fellows would pay off and take it lying down?

[David Harding]

I'll worry about that. Take away the head, you take away the power. See the deal? No. Okay, Barney. Yeah, sure. You're a jack, kid. Barney's hand can hold out longer than your face.

[Andy Gorham]

Yeah, well, you won't get away with this.

[David Harding]

The original kid. Everybody says that. One last time. Is it a deal? No. Too bad. But in a way, it's good. You saved me some dough. Looks like you do a real job, Barney. Okay. Here or someplace else? Someplace else. I don't like funerals.

[Andy Gorham]

What do you mean? You're not gonna knock you off?

[David Harding]

Yeah, kid, your object lesson number one, Nobody likes to die. And they might think twice about kicking up a fuss with you as an example. Let's can the chatter, Chris, and get it over with. Her your department, Barney.

[Narrator/Closing Remarks]

Yeah.

[David Harding]

Open up, Mankato. Open up. Somebody cross this bus. Stay where you are.

[Andy Gorham]

Oh, Mr. Hardy.

[David Harding]

Untie him, Peter. Right, Chief. Hardy. Spies, huh? That's right, Mankato. Easy, Barney. I wouldn't like to shoot you. All right, Andy.

[Andy Gorham]

Well, a little bit worse for the Wear. I'm glad you came. And that's an understatement.

[David Harding]

All right, Peters, put cuffs on Mankato and Barney. Okay? Nobody's gonna make trouble. I get lawyers. You'll need them. What happened, Gorham?

[Andy Gorham]

Now? That gorilla Barney picked me up. I didn't know what it was all about, man.

[David Harding]

Kato is the man behind the Oak Nub Real estate company. That's his interest. Yeah, by rights I should be suing this guy. He's the one who's not paying off. I just wanted to save the courts

[Andy Gorham]

a lot of trouble.

[David Harding]

That's nice of you man, Cato. But I'm sure they'll find it no trouble at all to convict you of false statements and fraud. Take the moy, Peter.

[Narrator/Announcer (David Harding Counterspy)]

Mr. Harding will be back in a moment with a special guest. You know, friends, I want to be sure that every counter spy listener has a chance to get one of our outstanding stainless steel slicing knives. So if the lady of the house isn't listening now, be sure you tell her about this offer. Or better still, send in for one for her. Remember, this is an extra useful slicing knife. Guaranteed to compare with knives costing 75 cents to $1. Because of a new secret process, we've been able to have this knife hollow ground. A feature usually found only in knives costing $2 or more. But this slicing knife is offered to you today for only a quarter with two wrappers from Old Nick or Bit of Honey candy bars.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

Our slicing knife has a blade that is gleaming stainless steel hollow ground with a razor sharp edge hollow ground by a special extension exclusive process to keep its sharpness for a long, long time.

[Narrator/Announcer (David Harding Counterspy)]

The handle is polished blonde hardwood designed to fit your hands smoothly and comfortably with a non slip grip.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

You'll be proud to use it as a carving knife at your nicest dinner party.

[Narrator/Announcer (David Harding Counterspy)]

And your stainless steel slicing knife will stand up for years of hardest kitchenware. It's stronger, it's extra sharp, it's extra useful. You may want two of these fine knives, so here's what to do. For each stainless steel slicing knife you want, send in two Old Nick or Bit of Honey wrappers with 25 cents. Please use coin. Do not use stamps or checks. Send to Old Nick, Box 144, New York 8, New York.

[Supporting Female Character (Edie)]

Old Nick, Box 144, NY 8, New York.

[Narrator/Announcer (David Harding Counterspy)]

Send your order now while you're still thinking about it. The quality is limited, so send in today.

[David Harding]

This is David Harding. Now we're happy to present the executive vice president of the national association of home builders, Mr. Frank W. Cordright, the

[Narrator/Closing Remarks]

moral of tonight's episode is an important one. Don't buy a new home without knowing everything about it. Unfortunately, some fly by night operators, like the ones you just heard dramatized, have tried to capitalize on the immense housing demand. In order to drive these unscrupulous people out of the home building business, we must have the help of the home buying public. Your part of the job is to be sure you're buying good value and quality. Be sure that the home is well constructed and well situated, that it is properly priced and financed, and that it is being built and sold by a reputable builder. These are all easy things to learn before buying a house, things that one generally makes very sure of before buying many less expensive things. Remember, this home building requires skill, integrity and years of experience. We came out of the war with a most serious housing shortage, but by this time we are approaching the 2 million mark and are beginning to meet the most critical part of the veterans housing needs. Speaking for the national association of Home Builders, I can assure you that its many thousands of members will continue to build good houses at fair prices.

[David Harding]

Thank you, Mr. Cordright.

[Narrator/Announcer (David Harding Counterspy)]

Tune in next Sunday, same time, same station, for the case of the photogenic crook whose gang delved in hot money until the counter spies worked out a scheme to put their activities on ice. The case of the Camera Happy Crook on David Harding CounterSpy. Tonight's David Harding Counterspy case was directed by William M. Sweets and was dramatized by Palmer Thompson with music by Jesse Crawford and featured Don McLaughlin and Mandel Kramer. David Harding counterspy is a Phillips H. Lord production originating in New York for the makers of Old Nick and Bit of Honey candy bars. Now a listening reminder. When Drew Pearson looks ahead, he usually comes out with a fascinating prediction. Be sure to hear Pearson tonight over this ABC station. This is abc, the American Broadcasting Company.

[Chelsea Handler]

This is Chelsea Handler from Dear Chelsea, after the Big Game. Like most people, I kept thinking about the commercials, and there was one that stayed with me. It was from the Blue Square Alliance Against Hate. And it wasn't loud or flashy. It showed a Jewish kid being targeted at school and another student who chose not to ignore it. As someone who was Jewish, that moment felt very real to me. Not dramatic, just familiar. And what struck me was how clearly it showed that hate doesn't always announce itself, but the impact is still huge. If you saw the Blue Square spot during the big game, it's worth thinking about. And if you want to show support, sharing the Blue Square is one small way to do that.

[Adam Graham]

Welcome back. Well, this episode dealt with a really significant social problem after the war, which was housing. And you'll hear that hinted about in so many old time radio programs. And I think the scenes focusing on that were pretty effective at establishing this problem and what was going on and what some people might have done about it. But the big problem is that the series is counterspy. And the tortured logic used to insert counterspy into this case is kind of stunning. And the attempts to justify it in the conversation between Peters and Harding kind of make it worse. I mean, as far as they know, there's no criminal angle. And Peters points out this, this looks like this is just entirely civil, nothing for us to do. And Harding doesn't explain why there's a specific crime involved, but it's like, hey, you know, there's FHA wants us to look into it, and there's also an industry group. So we're going to look into it. Bring the full force of the federal government and the powerful counterspy agency to bear on this problem and we'll solve it. Now, of course, you can kind of retroactively justify this because they found the fraud and because the mob boss was involved, but still, this is such a stretch for counterspot. And the weird thing is that this wasn't Phillips Lord's only show. He had Mr. District Attorney, and this would have fit a lot better over there. Our mob boss apparently has only two settings for persuasion, either bribery or quick execution. It just seemed to escalate so quickly. And again, it is the fact that the overall plot really doesn't fit counterspy. Even with the expanded law enforcement approach that we saw on last week's show, this felt like they were trying to address an issue out of scope. And that is really problematic whether it was done in the 1940s or whether it's done today. When you're so concerned about addressing a particular social issue and you don't have a story that actually fits what your series is about. Start on Patreon with a comment regarding the explosive dog. Jeff writes, blowing up a dog makes for quite an emotional episode, at least for me. Made villains even worse. Dog food angle at the end was clever. I had talked and I think this might have been on the Great Detectives podcast about how our views of pets has kind of changed over the years. And I think people loved dogs in the 1940s, but that's become even more intense, which leads to some plot points hitting very differently or more intensely with modern audiences. And that might be a case of it. And it definitely Hit that way with me too. And it's probably one of the lesser discussed aspects of old time radio that can cause some challenges for modern listeners. Dr. Whodunit comments on the same issue on Spotify. When the cabbie and the dog are louder than the explosion. Come on, sound effects guy. I did go back and listen to that portion again. I don't pick apart sound effects too much, but I think that there's a really good point here because when I listened to that, just focusing on that effect, it sounded like maybe a thunderstorm had started. To be fair, I think it can be a challenge with the resources that you would have had in the 1940s to using four way effects make an explosion sound realistic and well realized. We've got a lot more tools for that over audio today. What may have made this one sound more problematic is that you had this very loud, intense scenes with the dogs and the shouting, and that all being louder than the explosion creates a problem. It might not be so dramatic a difference if the explosion came after soft dramatic music, but really stands out if you're it coming out of another very loud scene. I will also say sound was a bit off on today's episode. I don't think I got into that because I got hung up on the plot. But the booming intro for David Harding, that was just wow. It's like they think the show gets better as the intro gets louder. We'll see if that trend continues. All right, well, now it's time to thank our Patreon supporter of the day. And I want to thank Judith, Patreon supporter since December, currently supporting the podcast at the cadet level of $2 or more per month. Thanks so much for your support, Judith. And that will do it for today. If you're enjoying this podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software. We'll be back in two weeks with another episode of counterspy Encore presentations this week on the Great Adventurers Podcast. But on the Great Detectives podcast, join us back here tomorrow for our 4,950th episode special. In the meantime, do send your comments to Box [e-mail] follow us on Twitter at Radio Detectives and check us out on Instagram Instagram.com great detectives from Boise, Idaho, this is your host, Adam Graham, signing off.

[Commercial Announcer]

It's tax season and by now we're all a bit tired of numbers, but here's an important one you need to hear. $16 billion. That's how much money in refunds the IRS flagged for possible identity fraud. But it's not all grim news. LifeLock monitors millions of data points per second and alerts you to threats you could easily miss on your own. If your identity is stolen, they'll fix it, guaranteed. Save up to 40% your first year. Visit lifelock.com iheart Terms apply when Kohler,

[Chelsea Handler (Kohler Ambassador Segment)]

global design leader in luxurious kitchen and bath products and asked me to be their ambassador for timeless, elegant, durable cast iron, I said, I'm in. Soon after, I was in their Kohler, Wisconsin foundry watching molten iron, poured, enamel applied by hand, and the beautiful finished pieces ready to ship. Since 1883, Kohler cast iron has been crafted by incredible artisans, and seeing it firsthand gave me a whole new appreciation for their craftsmanship. Now I'm proud to lend my stamp of approval to my favorite Kohler cast iron products for their durability, beauty and enduring style. Shop my curated [e-mail] as the Kohler Cast Iron Ambassador, I say, long live Cast Iron.

[Commercial Announcer]

Here's the truth. You could literally be adored by everyone and then come home and still get completely ignored by your own cat. It's classic cat behavior, but new Shiba Premium Puree is a lickable treat that changes all that. They're protein rich, made with bone broth, and have the smooth, creamy texture cats go crazy for, especially when it's hand fed. Yeah, it's more than a treat. It's a fast pass to favorite human status. So feed your cat Sheba and go from totally ignored to truly adored in just 12 days, guaranteed or your money back. Learn [e-mail].