The Abbotts: The White Hot Flame (Encore) (EP4679)

Summary

The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio Episode Summary: "The Abbotts: The White Hot Flame (Encore)" (EP4679) Release Date: April 16, 2025

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Introduction

In this captivating encore episode of "The Abbotts: The White Hot Flame," listeners are transported back to 1955, immersing themselves in a thrilling mystery that blends romance, suspense, and clever detective work. Hosted by Adam Graham of the "Great Detectives of Old Time Radio," this episode features the dynamic detective duo, Pat and Gene Abbott, navigating a perilous situation that tests their wits and marital bonds.

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Plot Summary

A Suspicious Flight

The episode begins with Gene Abbott recounting a recent flight from Scotland to London with his wife, Pat Abbott. As they board a chartered transoceanic plane, Gene grows increasingly uneasy when he notices something amiss with the aircraft's motor. Despite his concerns, Pat remains calm, even suggesting they play Scrabble to pass the time. Their interaction with Dr. John Rhodes, a distinguished psychiatrist, sets the stage for the unfolding mystery.

The Crash Landing

Shortly after takeoff, Gene's fears materialize as the plane experiences engine failure, leading to a dramatic crash landing in the foggy English countryside. The pilots and passengers are thrown into chaos, but fortunately, Gene and Pat survive with minor injuries. However, Dr. Rhodes is found dead, his head severely injured—a condition that contradicts the supposedly minor nature of the crash.

Investigating the Incident

At the British Military Hospital, Pat and Gene Abbott interact with Major Stirling, the hospital director, and meet Vic Williams, an intern. Gene's suspicions heighten when discrepancies emerge regarding the crash's severity and Dr. Rhodes's fatal injuries. Pat leverages her detective skills to uncover that the crash was orchestrated to eliminate Dr. Rhodes, who was investigating the hospital's covert activities.

Unmasking the Culprit

Through meticulous observation and deductive reasoning, Pat deduces that Major Stirling is the mastermind behind the staged crash and Dr. Rhodes's murder. Stirling's ulterior motives are revealed as his disdain for the British Empire and his ties to the Mediterranean League—a secretive and dangerous organization. The Abbotts confront Stirling, leading to a tense showdown where his true intentions are exposed.

Resolution and Escape

With the truth unveiled, the Abbotts efficiently neutralize the threat posed by Major Stirling. They secure him, ensuring he can no longer endanger others. The episode concludes with Pat and Gene safely returning to London, having successfully navigated the complexities of the mystery without resorting to violence, reinforcing their reputation as adept detectives.

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Character Insights

• Pat Abbott: Portrayed as the composed and resourceful partner, Pat demonstrates exceptional investigative skills and maintains her composure under pressure. Her ability to read people and situations is pivotal in uncovering the truth behind the crash.

• Gene Abbott: While ostensibly less composed than Pat, Gene's concerns and attention to detail play a crucial role in identifying inconsistencies in the plane's accident narrative. His interactions add depth to the couple's partnership.

• Dr. John Rhodes: Initially presented as a knowledgeable psychiatrist, Rhodes's untimely death becomes the catalyst for the mystery. His background hints at a deeper involvement in uncovering the hospital's secrets.

• Major Stirling: The antagonist, Stirling, is a complex character driven by personal vendettas and ideological beliefs. His manipulation and deception highlight the dangers lurking beneath respectable facades.

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Key Moments and Notable Quotes

1. Gene's Suspicion (05:43–06:32)

   • Gene Abbott: "Pat, something's wrong. The pilot isn't cutting that motor. It's missing." (05:43)
   • This moment marks the beginning of Gene's realization that the flight may not be as it seems.

2. Unveiling Dr. Rhodes's Death (13:37–13:39)

   • Pat Abbott: "He was tied into a seat with a safety belt. He didn't bounce around any more than we did wear. Well, but the doctor's head is bashed in. Skull is cracked wide open." (13:37)
   • Highlights the inconsistency between the crash's severity and Rhodes's injuries.

3. Pat Confronts Stirling (25:03–25:05)

   • Pat Abbott: "You faked that crash, didn't you?" (25:03)
   • A pivotal accusation that leads to Stirling's exposure.

4. Stirling's Motivations (28:36–28:38)

   • Major Stirling: "I helped them because I believe in the cause. My father was British, but my mother was Asiatic. I was raised in the Near East and raised in a tradition that loathes the British Empire." (28:36)
   • Reveals Stirling's deep-seated reasons for his actions.

5. Final Confrontation (29:12–29:15)

   • Major Stirling: "Is it, Mrs. Abbott? Or does it burn within us with a high dead white flame?" (29:12)
   • Stirling's final attempt to justify his motives before being outmaneuvered by the Abbotts.

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Themes and Insights

• Deception and Trust: The episode delves into the ease with which trust can be manipulated, as seen with Major Stirling's facade of professionalism masking his sinister motives.

• Marriage and Partnership: Pat and Gene's relationship exemplifies a balanced partnership where mutual respect and complementary skills lead to successful outcomes.

• Mental Health and Control: Through Dr. Rhodes's role and the hospital's activities, the narrative touches upon the tenuous line between mental health and criminality, raising questions about control and influence.

• Ideological Conflict: Stirling's actions are driven by ideological beliefs, highlighting how personal vendettas can escalate into dangerous pursuits.

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Conclusion

"The Abbotts: The White Hot Flame" stands out as a masterful blend of suspense, character development, and intricate plotting. Pat and Gene Abbott's adeptness in unraveling the mystery not only entertains but also underscores timeless themes of trust, deception, and partnership. This episode serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of Old Time Radio detective dramas, offering listeners both nostalgia and enthralling storytelling.

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Transcript

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[Adam Graham]

From Boise, Idaho, this is your host Adam Graham. As I'm taking a recording break, please enjoy this special encore presentation. Please note this episode was recorded in 2019, so any offers or information in the episode may not be valid unless they're reflected on the Great detectives [e-mail] now on with our podcast. Welcome to the Great Detectives of Old Time Radio from Boise, Idaho, this is your host Adam Graham. If you have a comment, email it to me. Box13greatdetectives.net Follow us on Twitter at radiodetectives and become one of our friends on Facebook, facebook.com RadioDetectives Today's program is brought to you by the financial support of our listeners. You can support the show on a one time basis. Support.greatdetectives.net or by Zell to Box13.8detives.net by mail to Adam Graham, P.O. box 15913, Boise, ID 83715 and become one of our ongoing Patreon supporters for as little as $2 per month at patreon.great.detives.net now it's time for today's episode, which is going to be a wild card program that I chose that didn't make the cut by the listeners vote, but which I really enjoyed and would like to listen to again. We're going to bring you an episode of the Abbotts. The Abbotts aired over NBC in 1955 and it starred variety of actors including Les Damon and Mandel Kramer as Pat Abbott and throughout the series, Claudia Morgan, who had played Nora Charles throughout the Thin man series, also opposite a number of actors, including Damon, played the role of Gene Abbott. We played this back during season two, and so it's been quite a while since we've heard an episode. The original air date on this one is March 13, 1955, and this one is the dead white Flame.

[Gene Abbott]

After all, what would you do if your husband thought romancing in the moonlight with you wasn't as much fun as solving a murder mystery?

[Narrator]

The National Broadcasting Company presents the adventures of the Abbotts, starring Claudia Morgan and Les Damon as Gene and Pat Abbott, those popular characters of detective fiction created by Francis Crane. NBC invites you to join Pat and Gene each week at this time for another recorded adventure in romance and crime. Now here is Gene Abbott to set the stage for tonight's puzzle in murder.

[Gene Abbott]

You've heard about the unbelievable fogs they've been having recently in England. Well, this one topped them all. Pat had been working on a case in a remote town in Scotland. Now we were flying back to London to pick up the transoceanic plane and return to the States. The plane we found in Scotland was a chartered job. It was the best we could get, being in a hurry to reach London. Pat, of course, was sitting as calmly as could be. Nothing on earth rattles that boy's nerves. He was nonchalantly thumbing through a magazine. Me? Well, as usual, I wasn't doing too well, peering out at the. We, Pat, want to play Scrabble?

[Pat Abbott]

Nope.

[Gene Abbott]

Oh, be sociable, Pat. You should say I'd be delighted to play Scrabble. Especially with you, Mrs. Abbott, the world's champion player. I found a set pad. Now, I'll get a pencil and paper and we'll play. Let's see. I have a pencil. Oh, a pencil. Maybe he has some paper.

[Major Stirling]

Who?

[Gene Abbott]

That man right in front of us. That very distinguished looking man.

[Pat Abbott]

If you're looking for an excuse to talk to him, dear, go right ahead. I'm not the jealous type, you know.

[Gene Abbott]

Not much. If he talked to me for more than 60 seconds, he would pick him up like he were back out west with a newborn calf. Toss him out of the plane.

[Pat Abbott]

I would not. Now, go on, ask him for the paper.

[Gene Abbott]

Okay. I. I beg your pardon? Yes, we wanted to play a game, and we haven't any paper, have you?

[Pat Abbott]

Oh, surely.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

I have a pad right here in my briefcase.

[Gene Abbott]

Well, it's awfully kind out there.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

Oh, not at all. There you are. Go on, take the whole pad.

[Gene Abbott]

Thank you.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

Sounds a bit rude, but it isn't a game three could play, is it?

[Gene Abbott]

Why, surely, Mr. Dr. Rhodes. Oh, I'm glad to know you, doctor. I'm Gene Abbott and this is my husband, pat.

[Pat Abbott]

You aren't Dr. John Rhodes, a psychiatrist, are you?

[Dr. John Rhodes]

Yes, I am.

[Pat Abbott]

Well, I'm delighted to meet you, sir. I read your book, Psychoneurosis in wartime. Gene, Dr. Rhodes is one of England's foremost analysts.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

You sound as though you were quoting the dust jacket on my book. I wish you wouldn't. It's most embarrassing. Are you a physician, Abbott?

[Pat Abbott]

No, I'm a private detective from San Francisco. Your book, as you might well imagine, was very closely connected with my field.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

You mean some private detectives? Read. I was under the impression they all solved their cases by being periodically knocked unconscious.

[Pat Abbott]

That happens too. But criminal psychology is also helpful at times. Your theory about us is very much like our theory about you.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

And what is that?

[Pat Abbott]

That all psychiatrists begin a case by fluoroscoping the patient's wallets.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

I'm afraid our business is considerably more serious than that.

[Gene Abbott]

Especially, doctor, in the area where psychosis becomes crime.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

Yes, Mrs. Abbott, you know, our most widespread problem medically today is not heart disease or cancer. Devastating as they are by statistics, it's mental illness. Hundreds of thousands of persons lie in hospital beds today because they are emotionally ill. Still more are at home or wandering the streets.

[Pat Abbott]

Wandering the streets? Contemplating murder, eh, doctor?

[Dr. John Rhodes]

Occasionally.

[Gene Abbott]

Does becoming absorbed in the criminal mind sometimes make you, well, wonder about?

[Dr. John Rhodes]

Myself, of course. I simply like to think my more evil impulses are reasonably controlled, though so.

[Gene Abbott]

Controlled you could never commit homicide.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

No, I'm susceptible too. But we are admitting an entire area in this discussion. The area of fanaticism. The lunatic who believes he must have power in the form of admirers, followers. Who believes he has a special mission on earth even though it means bloodshed. Which gets me to my present trip.

[Pat Abbott]

Might we ask what that is, Dr. Rhodes?

[Dr. John Rhodes]

British government is sending me to Kensington Downs to a hospital there. There are some very perplexing cases in that hospital. Cases of Fanaticism. I'm going to.

[Gene Abbott]

Excuse me. Pat. Pat, something's wrong. The pilot isn't cutting that motor. It's missing.

[Pat Abbott]

Yes, I know. I hear it. It's all right. It'll pick up again.

[Gene Abbott]

Pat. Pat, the light.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

Steady, Mrs. Abbott. If anything were really wrong, the pilot would warn us.

[Pat Abbott]

Just. Just stay in your seat, Gene. Don't fidget. And you don't become hysteric. We can always make a belly ride. We aren't over water. We're somewhere near London. He'll find a place to set us down. This whole section is pockmarked with airports.

[Gene Abbott]

Fasten your safety belts.

[Major Stirling]

Fasten your safety belts.

[Gene Abbott]

Pat. Pat, we're going to crash.

[Pat Abbott]

How? Easy, darling. Pat, get that belt tight.

[Gene Abbott]

Yes.

[Pat Abbott]

There you are.

[Gene Abbott]

Pat will be killed. It was a big kill.

[Pat Abbott]

Now, don't lose your head, Gene.

[Gene Abbott]

Oh, we're going to die, Pat. We're going to be killed.

[Pat Abbott]

No, we're not. Now, darling, steady. Steady now, steady.

[Gene Abbott]

Where are you bab. Where are you?

[Pat Abbott]

Jean.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

Jean, darling, you're hurt.

[Gene Abbott]

Oh, no, I'm all right. Are you, dear?

[Pat Abbott]

Yes, just a little shaken up. Can you stand up?

[Gene Abbott]

I think so. I'm. Wait till I unfasten belt.

[Pat Abbott]

Here, let me help you.

[Gene Abbott]

I'm okay. I'm pretty dizzy, though. Golly, the plane's all in one piece.

[Pat Abbott]

So let's get out of here fast. It might catch fire. That emergency exit's open. See it up ahead?

[Gene Abbott]

What is it? Where are you? I can't see you.

[Pat Abbott]

Over here, Dr. Rhodes.

[Gene Abbott]

Is he hurt?

[Pat Abbott]

He's out cold.

[Gene Abbott]

Pat. There's the pilot outside. He'll help in here. There's someone hurt in here.

[Pat Abbott]

All right, take it easy. I have a flashlight. Oh, please, please, shine it this way.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

That's it.

[Pat Abbott]

That chap got it back, didn't he?

[Gene Abbott]

Oh, his head.

[Pat Abbott]

Well, I sent someone for an ambulance. They'll fix him up. I don't think so. Why not? He's dead.

[Gene Abbott]

He is? Oh, no.

[Pat Abbott]

Too bad that confounded motor had to blow like that. Well, you two come on up. We'll take care of him. Watch your step, Gene. That's it.

[Gene Abbott]

Gosh. Dark and cold out here. What is this, a swamp?

[Pat Abbott]

No, we're about 80 miles from London. There's a hospital down the road. I sent there for help. I'll be back. Have to see about the other passengers.

[Gene Abbott]

So cold. Can you see anything, Pat? It's so foggy.

[Pat Abbott]

No, not much, darling.

[Gene Abbott]

We should get down on our knees and thank God for that pilot. I never thought we'd Walk away from this landing.

[Pat Abbott]

Mm.

[Gene Abbott]

What are you doing? Get away from that motor. It's broken. It's liable to explode or something. Pat, will you listen to me?

[Pat Abbott]

Oh. Oh, yeah, yeah.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

Huh?

[Gene Abbott]

Fine thing. A man nearly gets killed in an airplane crash and what's he do? Calmly strolls around examining motors of all the coats.

[Pat Abbott]

Gene, that motor is in awfully good shape.

[Gene Abbott]

It just doesn't make any sense to go. Good shape.

[Pat Abbott]

Yes, Looks like nothing's wrong with it at all. Oh, but Donnie, we had a crash landing. The puzzle, huh? Yes, and when you got the answer to that, you might try telling me how Dr. Rhodes got killed.

[Gene Abbott]

Well, he was killed in the crash.

[Pat Abbott]

He was tied into a seat with a safety belt. He didn't bounce around any more than we did wear. Well, but the doctor's head is bashed in. Skull is cracked wide open. You wanted to play games, Gene? All right, get a pencil and paper and figure that out.

[Gene Abbott]

We stood beside the huge silhouette of the plane in that cold, damp English countryside. The but the dead body of Dr. Rhodes inside the plane. Spotlights swept the ground from police cars. Ambulances roared about. White coated interns like ghosts flitted past us. Pat was very deep in thought and businesslike. Now that he'd stumbled into a murder. He kicked the ground pensively.

[Pat Abbott]

Now, Gene, listen, when they come over to us, no matter what I say, follow my lead. Don't ask questions.

[Gene Abbott]

Pat, do you think you know why we had that phony accident and why Dr. Rhodes was killed?

[Pat Abbott]

I'm just a detective, dear, not a crystal gazer. Keep your pretty shirt on.

[Major Stirling]

Ah, good evening. My name is Stirling, Major Stirling. I'm the director of the Regent Hospital down the road. You people feel all right? Anything we can do for you?

[Gene Abbott]

Why, we're.

[Pat Abbott]

I think you might help me. I feel punchy from shock. You're kind of tossed around in the plane.

[Major Stirling]

Why, certainly. If you come this way, I have a car. You can rest at the hospital and we'll have a look at you there.

[Pat Abbott]

Fine. Thank you, Major.

[Gene Abbott]

Major, I'd appreciate it very much. I'm his wife. I'm Mrs. Abbott, and this is my husband, Pat.

[Major Stirling]

Well, don't worry, Mrs. Abbott, we'll have him fixed up in no time. He's probably just a bit rocky from the fall. Now, if you take his other arm, he can lean on both of us. That's it. There we are. Now, I'll just tell the pilot that I'm stealing two of his passengers. I say there. Yes, I'm taking Mr. And Mrs. Abbott to the hospital. Mr. Abbott doesn't feel well.

[Pat Abbott]

He doesn't feel well?

[Major Stirling]

No. He said he's very dizzy and weak.

[Pat Abbott]

That's funny.

[Major Stirling]

Why?

[Pat Abbott]

We simply had a rough landing, that's all. I don't see how he could have been hurt so badly.

[Gene Abbott]

You don't?

[Pat Abbott]

No.

[Gene Abbott]

Well, that's strange too.

[Pat Abbott]

Why?

[Gene Abbott]

Well, you say the landing wasn't rough enough to injure my husband. But it was rough enough to kill Dr. Rhodes, wasn't it? As soon as I saw the hospital, I realized it was some sort of military establishment. It was surrounded by high stone walls with sentries and machine gun. The major told Pat he'd soon be okay and advised him to lie down for a while. They put both of us in a small private room. You can stop groaning now, Pat. We're alone.

[Pat Abbott]

Oh, didn't I do a terrific piece of acting?

[Gene Abbott]

Marvelous, darling. Pat, you know, you haven't kissed me for ages. After all, we might have been killed.

[Pat Abbott]

You know something? Maybe I should have been an actor instead of a detective. Just imagine. Radio City Music hall presents Ava Gardner and Pat Abbott.

[Gene Abbott]

I was talking about a much more fascinating subject.

[Pat Abbott]

Now, let's see. What role would I play? Maybe I'd be. Huh? What'd you say?

[Dr. John Rhodes]

What were you talking about?

[Gene Abbott]

Kissing, remember? Oh, lots of fun. Very popular nowadays.

[Pat Abbott]

Oh, Gene. Now, stay away from me. I'm supposed to be sick. What if somebody walks in?

[Gene Abbott]

Oh, they'll get a good prize. Practical lesson in the art of kissing from two highly qualified experts.

[Pat Abbott]

Oh, Jean, I'm supposed.

[Gene Abbott]

Close your eyes, dear. Lie back. You're supposed to be sick. And I'm Dr. Abbott, who's about to give you something that's a sure cure for chills. Fever. Well, maybe not fever. You ready?

[Pat Abbott]

Well, Doctor?

[Gene Abbott]

Yes. Oh, your fever's worse. Better give you another treatment.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

Oh, excuse me. Sorry to break in on you like this. I'm Vic Williams. The major sent me. I'm an intern.

[Pat Abbott]

What is it, Vic?

[Dr. John Rhodes]

He said for you to drink the stuff in this glass. It's a sedative.

[Pat Abbott]

Thanks, Vic. Hi.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

You don't mind my saying so, that was quite a clinch you two were in. Young love's a wonderful thing. What?

[Pat Abbott]

Sure is, Vic. Now, if you'll just run along.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

You should see me and my girlfriend. Like two love birds we are. I haven't seen her in a fortnight. Been stuck here at the hospital. Can't even talk to her. The phone lines are down, you know, on account of the store.

[Major Stirling]

I shan't be able to call her.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

For a couple of days. She must be piling away no end.

[Gene Abbott]

Yes, I'm. I'm sure she is. Now, if you've nothing else to tell us.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

You're from the States, aren't you?

[Pat Abbott]

That's right.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

Married?

[Pat Abbott]

Yes. Now look, if you just.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

Where are you from in the state? They just brought in that corpse from the plane, Dr. Rhodes. He looked like a real top line in the morgue. Sort of a friendly light. Did you know him?

[Gene Abbott]

We just met him on the plane.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

Hey, how'd the accident happen? I mean, you two just sitting there.

[Pat Abbott]

Suppose we ask you some questions.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

All right, I'll go ahead.

[Pat Abbott]

What is this hospital?

[Dr. John Rhodes]

It's called British Military Hospital. T17, Kensington Down.

[Gene Abbott]

Well, what sort of men are here? Veterans of World War II.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

Yes, mum and others. The. The weird ones.

[Gene Abbott]

You mean mental cases?

[Dr. John Rhodes]

Well, some of them are legitimately that, mum. The others?

[Pat Abbott]

Yes. What about the others?

[Dr. John Rhodes]

Oh, you know, the British government's mixed up with plenty of fanatics in the Near East. We're always having trouble with them. They got some chaps here from the Mediterranean Society.

[Gene Abbott]

What in the world is that?

[Dr. John Rhodes]

Wild eyed blokes. I call them professional assassins. Stage riots in the near east, kill people, usually for money. Although they claim some other fancy reasons. A lot of them are homicidal maniacs. Some of them are narcotic addicts. British army rounds them up now and then, pulls them out of the area, ships them here for a cure.

[Pat Abbott]

The cure Work.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

My, I often wonder.

[Pat Abbott]

Lots of the Mediterranean League in this hospital, you know.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

It's quite a three ring circus with those boys and the kind they attract.

[Gene Abbott]

What kind do they attract?

[Dr. John Rhodes]

Deportees. Ex Nazis, Neo fascists, the lunatic fringe. There's a lot of ex Nazis who turned up in the League.

[Pat Abbott]

Let's come in.

[Major Stirling]

Everything all right, Mr. Abbott?

[Pat Abbott]

Oh, fine, Major, thank you.

[Major Stirling]

Well, you try to get some rest and take that sedative. It'll calm your nerves. You want anything at all, just tell Vic thank you. We. We haven't any caviar or champagne though, much as I'd like to give it to you. I'll see you in the morning.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

I'm getting along myself. I know you two want to be alone. How long you been married?

[Gene Abbott]

A few years.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

San Francisco. Huh? What business are you in, Mr. Abbott?

[Pat Abbott]

Oh, I make a fortune, Vic. I dunk donuts for near sighted millionaires.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

Now look, I know, I know. I'm going. Oh, by the way, after I go bolt the door. Why, this is a hospital for lunatics, ma'am. You remember during the nights, they get hopped up. They start running around. Pleasant dreams.

[Gene Abbott]

Lovely place. Lovely. Pat, what are you doing?

[Pat Abbott]

I'm going for a stroll.

[Gene Abbott]

Here.

[Pat Abbott]

Now, what did you think I pretended to be sick for? I want to see what makes this hospital tick.

[Gene Abbott]

Wouldn't you rather lock the door and make believe we're back in Scotland on that moor, in the moonlight? You made quite a fancy Heathcliff back on that moor.

[Pat Abbott]

Pat, darling, right now I'm more interested in who bounced Dr. Rhodes on the coconut and why. I'll see you around, Mrs. Abbott.

[Gene Abbott]

Not on your life. If you prowl, I prowl. If you think for one moment you're going without me, I'll. I'll scream.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

No.

[Gene Abbott]

No.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

No.

[Pat Abbott]

All right, all right.

[Major Stirling]

Shh.

[Pat Abbott]

Come on. There are no lights out here. Follow me. Tiptoe.

[Gene Abbott]

Pat. Look, a light's shining under that door.

[Pat Abbott]

Yes, I see it. Oh, come on. Easy. Yeah, easy. I'll peek through this keyhole.

[Gene Abbott]

What do you see?

[Pat Abbott]

Two doctors. Looks like an operation they're working on a man's arm.

[Gene Abbott]

What are they doing?

[Pat Abbott]

One of them has a tattoo mark on his arm. Looks to me like the doctor is taking off the tattoo.

[Gene Abbott]

Oh, is that all?

[Pat Abbott]

It's enough.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

More than enough.

[Pat Abbott]

Come on, Jean. We're going to find the major.

[Gene Abbott]

But, darling, thousands of men have tattoos.

[Pat Abbott]

Not those men, and not for that purpose. Now, come on, let's go. Hurry. Sorry to break in on you, major.

[Major Stirling]

What's wrong?

[Pat Abbott]

Mr. Abbott, do you know what's happening to some of your prisoner patients?

[Major Stirling]

What?

[Pat Abbott]

I just saw them in the operating room. The doctors are removing tattoos from the men's arms.

[Gene Abbott]

Tattoos are usually.

[Pat Abbott]

In a situation like this, those tattoos may be very important. Every man who served in Hitler's boffin SS bore a tattoo, a Nazi insignia and his blood group. Ex Nazis by the hundreds have them. And as for that Mediterranean League, they probably have a tattoo also. Most fanatic secret societies do.

[Gene Abbott]

You're right, Pat. I remember the Pachucos, the dangerous secret society in America. Same deal.

[Pat Abbott]

Yes. Once out of this camp, any of those men has a much better cover story. It would be much easier to deny any affiliation they once had.

[Major Stirling]

Lot and trick of theirs. Well, I'm Grateful to you, Mr. Abbott. I. I'll telephone our headquarters in London and I'll double the guard. You'd best get back to your room. Mrs. Abbott will be safer there. These men may riot if they find out we're on to their game.

[Pat Abbott]

It's okay, Major.

[Major Stirling]

Hello. I want military headquarters in London.

[Gene Abbott]

Here's our door. Pat.

[Pat Abbott]

Yes, and you're going to stay in this room, Gene, because.

[Gene Abbott]

Look out, Pat, behind you. The pilot, he has a knife.

[Pat Abbott]

Yes, I see him. You.

[Major Stirling]

Wrist.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

You break my wrist.

[Pat Abbott]

Now drop the knife. Let go of that knife.

[Gene Abbott]

All right, all right. My wrist.

[Pat Abbott]

I'll let go of your wrist after we finish playing a little quiz game.

[Gene Abbott]

All the double crossings.

[Pat Abbott]

You faked that crash, didn't you?

[Major Stirling]

Didn't you?

[Dr. John Rhodes]

Yes.

[Pat Abbott]

It turned out the lights, left the controls, ran back, and in the excitement you hit Rhodes over the head. Simple, wasn't it? Especially when the plane's supposed to be out of control anyway. Then you went up front, did a few wingovers and a sloppy landing. They'd say the doctor died in the accident. Very neat way to commit murder. Why did you do it? Why did you do it? You break my heart.

[Major Stirling]

I got paid £2,000.

[Pat Abbott]

All right, they're going to stay here a while. Come on, Gene, let's get out. I lock him in.

[Gene Abbott]

Here's the keypad.

[Pat Abbott]

Get it docked.

[Gene Abbott]

My arm.

[Pat Abbott]

Yeah, that does it. He'll stay there. Now, come on, let's find the major.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

Well, Mr. Abbott.

[Gene Abbott]

Oh, it's Vic.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

I heard cries. I thought you were sick. What are you running about for?

[Pat Abbott]

Come with me, Vic. I'm going to the Major. We're all in for a little entertainment. Your Nazi guests are acting up, huh?

[Dr. John Rhodes]

Well, what do you know, major.

[Major Stirling]

More trouble, Mr. Abbott?

[Pat Abbott]

Yes. The pilot of our plane was waiting for me in my room with a knife. I had to knock him out. He's confessed. He murdered Dr. Rhodes. It was a fake accident.

[Major Stirling]

What? He walked.

[Pat Abbott]

I'll give you the details later. But I haven't picked up by your men.

[Major Stirling]

Oh, yes, I certainly will. Oh, I. I just telephoned headquarters. There's an investigating squad on the way here now.

[Gene Abbott]

Well, it's about time.

[Pat Abbott]

You know, Major, you're quite a remarkable man, taking all this in stride. Telephoning London.

[Major Stirling]

Well, it's. It's all part of my job, Mr. Abbott.

[Pat Abbott]

No, no, I think you deserve special mention for an extraordinary job telephoning London. And the telephone doesn't work.

[Major Stirling]

Well, who's that, Pat?

[Pat Abbott]

Yes, it's amazing. You say you call London for help, but Vic here told me a few minutes ago that the lines were down on account of the storm. He wouldn't be able to telephone his girlfriend for the next two days. How did you manage it, Major? Is magic also one of your accomplishments?

[Major Stirling]

You've been asking unpleasant Questions all evening, Mr. Abbott. I think I've had about enough Careful, Pat.

[Gene Abbott]

He has a gun behind the desk. I can see it from here.

[Major Stirling]

Vic.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

Yes, Major.

[Major Stirling]

We'll have to get rid of Abbott quickly too. I wouldn't try any childish tricks, Mr. Abbott, or I shall be forced to kill your wife.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

Surprised me this chap was trying to gum up the works. You suspect Abbott at all, Major?

[Major Stirling]

Yes, I did, Vic. Since he first presented himself at the hospital, it was obvious there wasn't anything wrong with him. I allowed him to come in though, basing my tactics on the old saying, give a man enough rope.

[Pat Abbott]

You paid that pilot to kill Dr. Rhodes, didn't you, Major? You had to get Rhodes out of the way.

[Major Stirling]

Go on. Very interesting.

[Pat Abbott]

The British authority suspected everything wasn't exactly as it seemed in this hospital. They probably figured some of the so called incurable prisoners were cured a long time ago. That some were feigning insanity. That all sorts of shenanigans were going on here. So they selected a top flight psychiatrist, Rhodes, to check the patients. Not a full dress investigation, just a seemingly innocent visit.

[Major Stirling]

Yes, they underestimated me that too. Mr. Abbott.

[Pat Abbott]

Yes, you needed a bit more time before staging what was probably going to be a wholesale escape. So you hired the pilot to keep Rhodes from coming here.

[Major Stirling]

You fit the pieces together very well.

[Pat Abbott]

Thank you. You even told the pilot to crash right near Kensington down so you could sign the death certificate and get the body out of the way fast. Who paid you, Major?

[Major Stirling]

No one. I helped them because I believe in the cause. My father was British, but my mother, Mr. Abbott, was an Asiatic. I was raised in the near east and raised in a tradition that loathes the British Empire and and the Western world in its entirety. My father left my mother. I grew up as a poverty stricken gamin in the filth of the worst of Cairo. This Mediterranean league you wish to destroy is my fondest hope.

[Gene Abbott]

Even though it's really a hopeless cause, major.

[Major Stirling]

Is it, Mrs. Abbott? Or does it burn within us with a high dead white flame? Mr. Abbott, you will drink the contents of this glass. It's an overdose of a sedative I offered you before. It will be fatal almost instantly. A most regrettable accident happens occasionally in the hospital.

[Gene Abbott]

Oh, Pat.

[Major Stirling]

Take the glass, Mr. Abbot, in your hands. That's it. Now drink it. I said drink it. Oh my.

[Pat Abbott]

Now take that gun. You know, for an apparently intelligent man, Major, it's quite a foolish error to hand someone a full glass of medicine and stand close to him so he could easily throw it in your eyes. A childish trick, as you warned me. About before, Vic. Try reaching London now. You work for MI5, don't you? British Intelligence, Yes.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

You are a smart bloke. I've been investigating this hospital for some time now.

[Gene Abbott]

Well, Vic, the least you could have done.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

I'm sorry, Mrs. Abbott. Obviously, I couldn't tell you anything. I had to let you both sweat a bit. I had no other choice. I'll call London and report this. I'll see you later, Mrs. Abbott. Get moving, Major.

[Pat Abbott]

Bye, Vic.

[Gene Abbott]

I hope you'll get to talk to your girlfriend soon, Vic.

[Dr. John Rhodes]

Oh, I will. I love conkers. All you know. Get going, Major.

[Gene Abbott]

Pat and I finally did get to London. We caught the Clipper, and as we flew over the Atlantic toward home. Pat, if Vic told you he was an investigator, why didn't you tell me?

[Dr. John Rhodes]

He never told me.

[Gene Abbott]

Well, then how did you know?

[Pat Abbott]

But in the first place, he asked an awful lot of questions when we met him. Too many, in fact. Made me wonder whose side he was on. Then he told us to bolt the door, so I knew he was worried about us.

[Gene Abbott]

Darling, how could you be sure?

[Pat Abbott]

When the major said he used the phone, Vic didn't say anything.

[Gene Abbott]

And that did it, huh?

[Pat Abbott]

Mm. That did it.

[Gene Abbott]

Pat.

[Pat Abbott]

What?

[Gene Abbott]

I just thought of a wonderful game we can play.

[Pat Abbott]

Scrabble again?

[Gene Abbott]

Uh, too dark.

[Pat Abbott]

What kind of a game can you play in the dark? You got neon checkers?

[Gene Abbott]

No, I was thinking we could play.

[Pat Abbott]

What? What?

[Gene Abbott]

Post office. Footnote to the story of the dead White Flame. Modern airplanes are perfectly designed for safety, speed, luxury, travel and in indoor sports.

[Narrator]

The National Broadcasting Company has presented the Adventures of the Abbotts, starring Claudia Morgan and Les Damon as those popular personalities of detective fiction. Pat and Gene Abbott, created by Francis Crane. Tonight's cast included Everett Sloan, Burford Hampton and William Lally. The Adventures of the Abbotts was written by Howard Merrill, original music composed and conducted by Dewey Bergman, produced by Ted Lloyd and Bernard L. Shubert, directed and recorded by Harry Frazee. Next week, same time, same station, another exciting adventure in crime with Pat and Gene in the Adventures of the Abbot.

[Pat Abbott]

This is the United States Armed Forces Radio and Television Service Foreign.

[Adam Graham]

Welcome back. Well, a very interesting episode that mixes some light and romantic flirty moments between Mr. And Mrs. Abbott with a pretty serious and heavier case than you might typically see in earlier programs during the golden age of radio. Good job to Pat on spotting that Vic was actually undercover, because I actually just thought the first time I listened to this that Vic was being incredibly inappropriate and rude. I also found myself a little bit curious about how they were playing Scrabble on this particular flight. It sounds like it was an early travel set. I don't know how travel sets with Scrabble work now. I think the only travel set of like a really popular game I've ever had was Yahtzee and Battleship Scrabble. Seems like it'd be hard to play while traveling just because of all those tiles. I came across something recently that leads me to clarify or correct something I said on a previous podcast because a listener asked about if there was an Old Time Radio Museum, and I said the only thing that I was aware of was the Museum of Broadcasting in Chicago. And that was correct insofar as that was all that I was aware of. Since then, I became aware that there is actually a dedicated museum to Old Time Radio, the Radio Days Theater of the Mine Museum in Sutherland, Oregon. It's about two and a half hours outside of Portland, about nine hours from Boise, depending on how you, you know, drive to the location. And it's a storefront museum, so it's not like it's it's huge or anything, but it looks like it's got some really neat exhibits in there and I would. I'm interested in hopefully someday being able to go and see it. So to clarify, there is an Old Time Radio museum, it's in Sutherland, Oregon, and hopefully I'll be able to go there someday. I do want to mention that we're going to be making a slight change at the end of each podcast. I watch a few different creators who make things on YouTube and also have Patreon, and they will often have crafts credits to their Patreon supporters above a certain level. And that's pretty easy to do if you're doing a video podcast. And it's it occurs to me that I really do want to honor people who support the show on Patreon in a similar way, though I don't think there's time to read off all 169 names at the end of each episode. So starting with today's podcast, we will thank one of our Patreon supporters at the end of each episode and we'll choose the particular person we're thanking at random from anyone who's supporting the show at the level of $2 or more per month. Thank you to Christine, currently at the shamus level of $4 or more per month. Thank you to Christine, supporting the program at the shamus level of $4 or more per month and she became a Patreon supporter November of last year. Thanks so much for your support Christine. And that will do it for today. Join us back here tomorrow for standby for crime. And next Monday, we get back into your choices as we bring you number 19 from the standard division in our listener's choice countdown. In the meantime, send your comments to box [e-mail], follow us on Twitter at Radio Detectives and become one of our friends on Facebook. Facebook. ComradeDetectives from Boise, Idaho, this is your host, Adam Graham, signing off.