Episode Summary: "Philip Marlowe: The House that Jacqueline Built (Encore)" (EP4587)

Overview

In this encore episode of "The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio," listeners are transported back to a classic Philip Marlowe adventure titled "The House that Jacqueline Built." Hosted by Adam Graham, the episode features Gerald Moore as the iconic private detective Philip Marlowe. This intricate mystery weaves themes of greed, deception, and hidden treasures, all set against the backdrop of mid-20th-century Los Angeles and the serene San Pablo Bay.

Plot Summary

Introduction to the Mystery (00:03:59 - 00:05:54)

The story commences with Philip Marlowe being approached by Professor Felix Piper and his assistant, Stephanie Fraser. Piper is distressed over the mysterious disappearance of his house—a structure integral to his botanical research in South America. He explains that the house, laden with months of research and tropical herbs, has inexplicably vanished from its Los Angeles location, leaving behind a vacant lot and a troubling void in his work.

Philip Marlowe: "Look, if you just sit down and tell me who you are. I have no object." (00:05:27)

Investigation Begins (00:05:54 - 00:14:09)

Marlowe takes it upon himself to locate the missing house. His investigation leads him to Jacqueline Beatty, a neighbor who witnessed the suspicious removal of the house by the Gilligan Wrecking and Moving Company. Beatty provides crucial information, including the company's address and mentions a significant mishap involving a pomegranate tree during the house's relocation.

Jacqueline Beatty: "I have to tell you, I remember. Craziest thing I ever saw, them men working all day and all night, getting that little house up on rollers." (00:09:24)

Uncovering the Conspiracy (00:14:09 - 00:20:09)

Further probing leads Marlowe to Bat Battenschlag, a former employee of Gilligan Wrecking, who reveals that the house was moved to the Harbor Salvage Company yard in San Pedro. Marlowe deduces that the move was hastened without proper reason, sparking his suspicion of foul play. His inquiries uncover a connection to Martin Corday, an importer with dubious intentions, and the real Felix Piper's demise.

Philip Marlowe: "And somebody tagged him? Yeah, with a knife. A very fancy knife." (00:15:05)

Climax at San Pablo Bay (00:20:09 - 00:30:15)

Marlowe, alongside Stephanie Fraser, travels to Wilson on San Pablo Bay to locate the houseboat owned by Jacqueline Beatty. Upon arrival, they confront Beatty, who orchestrates a tense revelation. It becomes evident that Martin Corday had been masquerading as Felix Piper to seize the hidden rubies—valued at $30,000—concealed within the house's fireplace.

In a dramatic twist, Corday attempts to eliminate Marlowe, but the detective outsmarts him, ensuring Corday's capture and the safety of the rubies. The episode concludes with a philosophical reflection on new beginnings, as Marlowe walks away from the case with hope for the future.

Philip Marlowe: "1950 another chance for Marlow and for the world. I hope we both do better with it this year." (00:30:15)

Key Characters

• Philip Marlowe (Gerald Moore): The quintessential private detective, embodying wit, intelligence, and resilience.
• Professor Felix Piper: A dedicated botanist whose life's work is jeopardized by the disappearance of his research house.
• Stephanie Fraser: Piper's assistant, whose initial distrust of Marlowe evolves into collaboration.
• Jacqueline Beatty (Gerald Moore): A seemingly gentle neighbor with deep connections to the central mystery.
• Martin Corday (Professor Felix Piper): The antagonist, whose deceit and greed drive the plot's conflict.

Notable Quotes

1. Philip Marlowe on Divorce (Ad Insertion):

   "There's a lot on the line in a divorce. Your home, savings, retirement, maybe even kids." (00:00:00)

2. Marlowe Introduces Himself:

   "I was up the coast with two murders behind me..." (00:03:59)

3. Jacqueline Beatty on the Moving Company:

   "Them clumsy oxes in such a rush they backed a big truck over my pomegranate tree." (00:09:24)

4. Marlowe's Philosophical Reflection:

   "1950 another chance for Marlow and for the world. I hope we both do better with it this year." (00:30:15)

5. Host Adam Graham's Commentary:

   "The missing house definitely draws you in and then of course still managed to conclude the story with that little bit of hopeful philosophical note." (00:33:00)

Insights and Themes

• Greed and Deception: The central plot revolves around the lengths individuals will go to obtain wealth, as seen with Corday's fraudulent actions.
• Trust and Betrayal: Stephanie Fraser's initial deceit and eventual trust highlight the complexities of human relationships in high-stakes environments.
• New Beginnings: Marlowe's final reflection underscores the recurring theme of hope and renewal, a staple in noir detective narratives.

Conclusion

"The House that Jacqueline Built" is a quintessential Philip Marlowe tale that captivates listeners with its intricate plot and dynamic characters. The episode masterfully balances suspense with insightful commentary, making it a standout installment in the Great Detectives of Old Time Radio series. Adam Graham's engaging narration and the stellar performances by Gerald Moore and the supporting cast breathe life into this timeless mystery, offering both entertainment and a nostalgic journey into the Golden Age of Radio.

Listener Feedback Highlights

• Appreciation for Gerald Moore's Performance:

  "Gerald Moore really was everywhere in the 60s, and that's definitely the case with not only Gerald Moore, but with a lot of very professional, talented character actors who did voice work." – Wes

• Acknowledgment of Philip Marlowe's Legacy:

  "In my opinion, Philip Marlowe is the best noir detective of all time. And there's definitely a good argument for that." – Anonymous Listener

• Recognition of Production Quality:

  "You just listen to them work and you don't even realize it. But they played such a key part in creating the atmosphere and the style of so much great entertainment..." – Listener Comment

Final Thoughts

This encore episode not only delivers a compelling mystery but also pays homage to the rich history of radio detective dramas. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, "The House that Jacqueline Built" offers a captivating experience that highlights the enduring allure of classic noir storytelling.