
Today's Mystery: A woman hires The Falcon to find her missing hypochondriac husband. Original Radio Broadcast Date: August 1, 1951 Originating from New York Starring: Les Damon as The Falcon; Chuck Webster as Sergeant Corbett; Jackson Beck; Mandel...
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Adam Graham
Welcome to the Great Detectives of Old Time Radio from Boise, Idaho. This is your host, Adam Graham. In a moment we're going to bring you this week's episode of the Adventures of the Falcon. But I do want to let you know that today's program is brought to you in part by the financial support of our listeners. You can support the show on a one time basis, support.greatattackives.net or become one of our ongoing Patreon supporters for as little as $2 per month at patreon.greatdetives.net and I want to thank Rebecca for increasing her support from the seamus level of $4 or more per month to the Master detective level of $7.14 or more per month. And I want to thank Eric for increasing his support from the rookie level of $2 or more per month to the shamus level of $4. Again, thank you so much for your support. Now let's see if I can beat Ed Hurley and get this right the first time. From August 1, 1951, here is the case of the Hypocritical Hypo.
Ed Hurley
The Kraft Foods Company brings you the Adventures of the Falcons starring Les Demons. Hello? Yes, this is the Falcon speaking. Oh Carol, I'm glad you called. You'll have to count me out tonight, angel. I'm all jammed up. The hypochondriac I know is having trouble sleeping and someone prescribed a little lead pill. Unless I stop him, he may take it right between the eyes. This is Ed Hurley. He friends inviting you on behalf of the Craft to listen to the Adventures of the Falcon transcribed Today you met The Falcon, first in his bestselling novels. Then you saw him in his thrilling motion picture series. Now join him on the air when the Falcon solves the case of the hypocritical hypo.
Pearl Graham
Miracle Whip has a flavor so pleasing. Miracle Whip tastes so lively, so teasing. Miracle Whip, only one of its kind. Miracle Whip Best salad dressing you'll find.
Ed Hurley
Miracle Whip tastes really good. Not too sharp, not too mild, but just exactly right. And Miracle Whip tastes different, too different from any other salad dressing. Try it yourself, see? Why, it's America's favorite salad dressing. The one and only Miracle Whip. And now, the case of the hypocritical hypo. It's Wednesday evening in New York and the rain is coming down in the proverbial bucket. From a window in a little Brooklyn hideout a gentleman named Fred Desantis watches anxiously. Then finally, a car draws up to the curb. A few minutes later, there's a knock at the door and Mr. DeSantis almost knocks over a lamp in his. Hello, friend. You alone, Demi? What else? Where's Margie? She wouldn't come. What do you mean, she wouldn't come? Give a fellow a chance to take his coat off, would you? I asked you something, Danny. Honest. DeSantis. Have a little consideration. I could catch pneumonia this way. Any doctor will tell you. Where's Margie? I told you, she didn't come with me. Why not? She said. How did she know it wasn't a trap? There was no way of checking. You ain't got a phone here. Told her you were working for me? Sure, but you wouldn't believe me. What does she want me to do, call for the money myself? That's what she said. Well, you go right back to home. I don't do any good, Fred. I practically got on my knees to the girl. All she said was, if Desantis wants his dough, let him come and get it. How far does she think I'd get with Larry Sloan looking for me? I told her that, too, but she wouldn't listen. Look, I got an idea. How would it be if you gave me a note? If I gave you a note? Yeah, to Margie. You can tell her if she don't want to come over here herself she can turn the money over to me. She can. What I mean, to bring to you. Hey, you nuts? Well, what's the matter? You think I'd trust you with 65 grand? Oh, now, that hurts, Fred. All I'm trying to do is be helpful. You can't say I haven't proved It. What are you trying to give me? Who else would go out on a night like this? I'm liable to catch my death a cold. Don't make me laugh. Yeah, well, I'm very susceptible. Well, if that's the way you feel. Oh, wait a minute. Danny. Yeah? Swear in your kid's life. I swear by my kid. Now you satisfied? No, but I can't help myself. Get me a pen and some paper. Say, buddy. Me? Yeah. I wonder if you could help me out. Now, look, mister, I'm in a hurry, if you don't mind. Relax, kid. Someone would think I was going to brace you for a touch. You live in that house? Why? Because if you do. You must be Danny Graham. Well, what if I am? Well, My name is Cy Nichols. Now, look, Mr. Nichols, I'm not a well man. You'd never guess it to look at you. Well, appearances can be deceiving, you know. So if you'll excuse me. Ah, take it easy, Danny. Better by wants to talk to you. Your friend's name wouldn't be Larry Sloan, would it? What made you say that? I wasn't born yesterday. And if Mr. Sloan wants me, Betty does. Danny, when Larry Sloan wants something bad enough. You going to get on? Yes.
Pearl Graham
I wonder if I have the right place.
Ed Hurley
Well, that all depends. What place are you looking for?
Pearl Graham
Are you Mike Waring? I mean, the private detective they call a falcon?
Ed Hurley
That's right.
Pearl Graham
Oh. Well, my name is Pearl Graham.
Ed Hurley
Won't you come in?
Pearl Graham
Thanks.
Ed Hurley
Let me take a coat.
Pearl Graham
No, I. I can't stay long. I left my baby with a neighbor.
Ed Hurley
Well, what can I do for you, Mrs. Graham?
Pearl Graham
I. I don't know if you can do anything. My husband's disappeared.
Ed Hurley
Your husband?
Pearl Graham
His name is Danny. He hasn't been home since last night.
Ed Hurley
Did you report it to the police?
Pearl Graham
Yeah, but they told me not to worry.
Ed Hurley
You don't seem to have much luck following their prescription.
Pearl Graham
Going out of my mind, Mr. Waring. Danny never did anything like this before.
Ed Hurley
What does your husband do?
Pearl Graham
Well, that's hard to say. Right now, he's working for Mr. DeSantis.
Ed Hurley
What DeSantis would that be?
Pearl Graham
I don't know his first name.
Ed Hurley
But what kind of work does Danny do for him?
Pearl Graham
I don't know exactly.
Ed Hurley
When you come right down to it, you don't seem to know very much about anything.
Pearl Graham
Well, Danny believes that a wife shouldn't interfere in her husband's business. He thinks her place is in the home.
Ed Hurley
A fellow named Hitler had the same idea.
Pearl Graham
What?
Ed Hurley
Nothing. Well, I'll do what I can, Mrs. Graham. Though I've got a hunch if your husband doesn't show up, you'll be way ahead of the game. Oh, you must really enjoy your work. Si. You realize Graham's been out for almost 24 hours? What'd you hit him with, anyway? Well, you know how it is. Sloane? No, I don't know. That's why. Now, who? That I can't imagine. Think it'd be Fred? No. Desantis wouldn't have missed him yet. Keep an eye on him. I'll get it. All right. Hold your horses, will you?
Pearl Graham
Hello, Larry.
Ed Hurley
What are you doing here, Hazel?
Pearl Graham
I surprised you, didn't I?
Ed Hurley
You certainly did. What's the matter with Los Angeles?
Pearl Graham
Nothing.
Ed Hurley
So why didn't you stay there?
Pearl Graham
I got lonesome for you.
Ed Hurley
You got lonesome for me? I got a good mind to knock your teeth out.
Pearl Graham
Will you listen to him? I travel 3,000 miles to Salmon. I. Hey, what was that?
Ed Hurley
None of your business.
Pearl Graham
Well, who's that fellow on the back?
Ed Hurley
Hazel, if you don't get out of here.
Pearl Graham
Hey, that's Danny Graham, ain't it?
Ed Hurley
How did you know that?
Pearl Graham
What's the matter with you, Larry? You know, I used to work here in New York. It was in. Let me think.
Ed Hurley
Do it outside.
Pearl Graham
You mean you don't want me here?
Ed Hurley
How'd you ever figure that out?
Pearl Graham
Well, when a man says.
Ed Hurley
I'll be right with you, Sime.
Pearl Graham
Hey, who's he?
Ed Hurley
Nobody you should know. Now beat it.
Pearl Graham
Well, at least give me a chance.
Ed Hurley
I told you something, Hazel, didn't I?
Pearl Graham
Okay, Larry. You'll see if you won't be sorry.
Ed Hurley
Go on, get lost. Not bad if you like him. Stupid. You're running off at the mouth sign. No offense intended. Get him up. All right. Come on, Danny. Come on, rise and shine. Lemme alone. Get up, boy. This is reveille, huh? Hello, Graham. Oh, you're Larry Sloan. That's right. I am awfully sorry about this. Should be. You know, he could have fractured my skull. Where's the mirror? Sit down. Lay off him, Sime. Listen, Danny, I want to talk to you. You're not kidding me, Sloan. I know what you're going to say. You'd like to know where Fred Desantis is hiding out, but you're not going to tell me, huh? I swore on my child's life. So what? So on top of that, this. This. Careful. I'll be lucky if I don't have a concussion. Do you know that the skull is the tenderest part of. Well, if you think I'm going to tell you where Desantis is just like that, you're wrong. Am I? Yeah. It's going to cost you a grand. What? It's worth a lot more. I know why you're after him. Do you? Well, I can draw my own conclusions. He had a roll on him big enough to choke a horse. How much was it? I didn't stop to count it, but I figured ought to be worth a thousand. Well, I'll tell you what I'll do, Danny. I'll give you a hundred now on the balance, after I see the status. Well, I really shouldn't, but. Okay. 20, 40, 50 and 50 makes 100. He's in Brooklyn. Where in Brooklyn? Got a furnished room at 1440 Kelvin. If you're lying to me, Graham, I swear by my. It's the truth, Mr. Sloan. Can I go now? Yeah. You won't say anything to this? I won't say anything to him. Well, lots of luck. Oh, thanks. You know, he could be tossing you a curve. Yes, I thought of that. And supposing he tips off Desantis? Would you believe it? Si, I thought of that, too. Get your coat. I feel like a little ride. Now, where could she have put that hot water bottle? If I told her once, I told her a thousand times. Who'd you expect? Pearl?
Pearl Graham
Where have you been? I was going out of my mind.
Ed Hurley
You didn't have far to travel.
Pearl Graham
I even hired a private detective to find you.
Ed Hurley
You what?
Pearl Graham
Yeah, Mike Waring.
Ed Hurley
What'd you do that for?
Pearl Graham
I told you, I was worried sick.
Ed Hurley
Well, you call him and tell him the wandering boy has returned. Is that all the shirts I've got?
Pearl Graham
No, there's some in the bottom drawer. You going off again?
Ed Hurley
Yeah, I gotta run over to Philly for Mr. DeSantis.
Pearl Graham
How long will you be gone?
Ed Hurley
Just overnight.
Pearl Graham
Well, what do you need all those shirts for?
Ed Hurley
I'm gonna change every five minutes. Any more questions?
Pearl Graham
Going away with that girl.
Ed Hurley
What girl?
Pearl Graham
Hazel.
Ed Hurley
Hazel?
Pearl Graham
Hazel Fulton?
Ed Hurley
What are you crazy? I don't know anybody. But did she call me? Yes. What do you know? I haven't heard from her in years. I thought she was in Los Angeles.
Pearl Graham
You're not fooling me. You're planning to run away with her.
Ed Hurley
I wasn't planning on a Pearl, but it's not a bad idea.
Pearl Graham
What about me and the baby?
Ed Hurley
Let your father support you. He's got apartment houses.
Pearl Graham
I'm not gonna let you go.
Ed Hurley
Danny, don't be a duke.
Pearl Graham
I mean it.
Ed Hurley
Are you gonna get out of my way.
Pearl Graham
I'm warning you, you walk out of that door, how. Danny.
Adam Graham
Sorry.
Ed Hurley
How are you, Mike? Long time no see. Yeah, it feels like a week. Well, what do you have? Well, I don't know. What do you suggest? I wish you'd asked me that sometime. Oh, hi. What are you doing here? Well, I had something to tell you, but it kind of slipped my mind. Well, that's a great help. Speaking of great helps, Mike, that reminds me. Did you ever try a fresh, crisp, chopped lettuce salad to cool off with? Oh, yes, indeed. These are my salad days, you know. Oh, you mean you're green and fresh and all mixed up? Why, Sergeant, you surprised me. That's tough to top. Not if you top it with Miracle Whip. Oh, that's pretty good. Can you beat that one, Sergeant? No, no, no, no. After all, it's Eddie's favorite subject. That's right, because Miracle Whips, my favorite dressing. And on you it looks good. On salad, it tastes good, Mike. Because it's a doggone delicious salad dressing. That's why. The best you ever tasted. And what makes it so wonderful? It's swell, peppy flavor, mind you. Not too sharp, but just right. And is there any other dressing like Miracle Whip? No, because Miracle Whip is made differently, so it has a distinctive flavor. And is it mighty good tasting? Believe me, it is. So, Mike, shall I bring on the salad now? You mean with no questions asked? Well, just this one. Do you know what folks call Miracle Whip? Let me see. Miracle Whip? No. Yes. I mean, millions of folks call Miracle Whip their favorite salad dressing. It's the one and only. Gee, Miracle Whip is just like my girl. How's that? Well, I call her my one and only. Yeah? Yeah. And so do millions of other guys. Hey, hey. Now I remember what I had to tell you. I'll get that salad for you. Yeah, thanks, Ed. Yeah? We picked up a client of yours today, Mike. Client of mine? Lady named Pearl Graham. How did you know I was working for her? Well, didn't she hire you to find her husband? But I don't seem to be having much luck. Maybe you ought to try the morgue. What are you talking about? He's down there with a slug in his brain. Would you like to take a look at him? Well, I don't imagine I can do him any good. I'd sooner take a look at Mrs. Graham. Now her, I may be able to help.
Adam Graham
You.
Pearl Graham
I didn't kill Danny, Mr. Ware, and you've got to believe me.
Ed Hurley
And how come you didn't see the murderer.
Pearl Graham
My back was to the door.
Ed Hurley
You didn't hear it open? It was.
Pearl Graham
It was open all along. I just came in.
Ed Hurley
What time was that?
Pearl Graham
It was exactly 20 after 3. I remember looking at my watch. Danny bought it for me. He was always buying me presents.
Ed Hurley
He sounds like the type. How do you explain the gun being found in the room?
Pearl Graham
I don't know.
Ed Hurley
You know, your. How your fingerprints get on it.
Pearl Graham
I don't remember. I was so dazed, I must have picked it up without thinking.
Ed Hurley
You weren't so dazed that you couldn't take your child and head to LaGuardia Airport?
Pearl Graham
I didn't realize what I was doing.
Ed Hurley
Did you realize you had a fight with your husband?
Pearl Graham
That's a lie.
Ed Hurley
Well, then why did Sergeant call you?
Pearl Graham
What is this, the third degree? Just what side are you on?
Ed Hurley
I want to be on yours, Pearl. But you've got to let me.
Pearl Graham
Danny and I never had any trouble.
Ed Hurley
Well, I heard.
Pearl Graham
I don't care what you heard. He was a good husband and a wonderful father.
Ed Hurley
Yeah, I know. And he was always buying your presents.
Pearl Graham
He was. He never looked at another woman?
Ed Hurley
No. And who was this, Hazel? One of the neighbors heard you yelling about.
Pearl Graham
I don't know any Hazel.
Ed Hurley
Didn't you accuse your husband of going away with her?
Pearl Graham
No. Danny was going away on business for Mr. DeSantis.
Ed Hurley
So we're back to Desantis again. Have you any idea where I can find him?
Pearl Graham
No. Danny never told me.
Ed Hurley
No, that's right. Danny never told you anything.
Pearl Graham
That's because he was considerate. He never wanted me to worry.
Ed Hurley
He sounds too good to live. No wonder someone knocked him off. All right, Pearl. I'll do what I can. Hi, Mike. Well, what'll it be? Oh, just a cup of coffee. And here you got yourself a new case. Yeah. Incidentally, did you know Danny Graham? Yeah. I used to drop by occasionally till I discouraged him. You know, the nanny worked for. Who's that? Mr. DeSantis. DeSantis. Now, hold on a minute. No. Well, pass the word along, will you? If you can give me a lead, I'll be right. Yeah? Who is it? They don't say. All right. Thanks. Hello. You Mike Waring? That's right. I hear you. Looking for me? Who's this? Fred Desantis. This is a great pleasure, Mr. DeSantis. I was beginning to believe you didn't exist. What time you mine? Well, I'm working for Pearl Graham. Pearl Graham? Yeah. Her husband, Danny was employed by you. I was wondering if we couldn't sit down somewhere. Have A little talk. I think you'd find it more profitable if you talked to Larry Sloan. Larry Sloan? Yeah. Look him up. He's stopping at the Wickersham. What's he got to do with this mess? I'm not going to do all your work. Where can I reach you? I kind of hard to say. I'm always on a move. But don't worry, wearing. I'll keep in touch. Hello, Sloan. Do I know you? I don't think so. My name is Mike Waring. Not the buzzard. I mean the falcon. You may have had it right the first time. What do you want? My client needs your help. The client? A girl named Pearl Graham. Oh, is that the widow? Then you know her husband was murdered. Yes, I heard it on the radio. Sad, wasn't it? Very. Well, now that we've got that settled, I don't think there's anything else to talk about. I don't know. Fred Desantis thought we ought to get together. And Santa? You spoke to him not more than 10 minutes ago. Time. Yeah. This is Mike Waring. Glad to know you, sir. Frisk him. Sure. Look, fellow, if you don't mind. Shut up. This is my best suit. Well, I'm giving it a good press. He's clean, Larry. Well, that's the way my mother brought me up. Oh, this kid's a ball of fire. Yes. Maybe we'll have to put him out. Where is the Santis, Waring? I have no idea. You said you spoke to him on the phone. You're lying. I'd like to see you try that again. Let me. Come on, Waring, get up. I said get up. Where is the Santis? I wouldn't tell you if I knew. If there's one thing I can't stand, it's a guy who's stubborn. All right, Sim, break him down. Well, he still ain't talking, Larry. And what'd you come out for? Get back in there. So you. She's hot. Cold. You gotta hand it to the gang. He's got the constitution of the Knox. He knows where we can find the Sanderson. If he does, he ain't telling. Look, Sloan, I've been doing a little thinking. Have you? Yeah. Much as I hate to say this, I think we can kiss that doe goodbye. How do you think, sir? Well, for all we know, that Danny Graham might have had it. Mm. When did you think of that? Well, I don't think I understand you, Larry. Sure you do, Si. You're no dope. Thanks. You know, something just occurred to me. After Danny left here, you went to get the car. You were gone a long time. And I told you I was low on gas, so I thought I better fill up. Where'd you go for it? Texas. Oh, now that's not right, Larry. You don't hear me making accusations. After all, you weren't around when I got back. I went to look for you. We're in Texas. Don't you be smart. And I'll tell you, Sloane, when people don't trust each other, it's no good. So suppose I bow out? You mean just like that? Why not? Well, look what you invested in this thing. It was only time. Still, I feel you got something coming to you for all your trouble. No, I wouldn't feel right. Stick around, Si. I'll see you get yours. Oh, hello. Huh.
Pearl Graham
I hope I didn't disturb you.
Ed Hurley
How did you get in here?
Pearl Graham
The door was open. I gotta talk to Larry about that. He's very careless.
Ed Hurley
And where is he?
Pearl Graham
I don't know. He and that fine nickel fellow must have gone out.
Ed Hurley
What's your name?
Pearl Graham
Hazel.
Ed Hurley
Hazel?
Pearl Graham
Hazel Fulton. What's yours?
Ed Hurley
Waring.
Pearl Graham
Well, I'm very glad to make your acquaintance, Mr. Waring.
Ed Hurley
Likewise. You'll part my not getting up.
Pearl Graham
Oh, that's all right. I'm used to it. Every time you come into this room, there's someone stretched out on the bed.
Ed Hurley
That's who was the previous occupant?
Pearl Graham
Danny Graham.
Ed Hurley
Danny Graham?
Pearl Graham
Yeah, you know him?
Ed Hurley
Very well.
Pearl Graham
It certainly is a small world.
Ed Hurley
It has certainly is. We called Graham's apartment last night.
Pearl Graham
Who told you that?
Ed Hurley
My spies.
Pearl Graham
Well, don't let on to Larry. He's awful jealous.
Ed Hurley
What did you want with Graham?
Pearl Graham
Just wanted to find out how he was. I haven't seen him. Oh, I bet it must be at least five years.
Ed Hurley
Have he changed much?
Pearl Graham
Nah, I would have known him anywhere. I got a wonderful memory for faces. Now take yours, for example.
Ed Hurley
Yeah, I wish someone would. It's not doing me any good.
Pearl Graham
Well, you shouldn't talk that way, Mr. Waring. You got a lot of character in your face. Just because it's all banged up don't make any difference.
Ed Hurley
Does to me.
Pearl Graham
I'm serious. Now, on the other hand, you take Larry.
Ed Hurley
I'd love to. Any idea where I can find him?
Pearl Graham
Well, he just opened an office in the Parker building, but I don't suppose he'd be there, do you?
Ed Hurley
No, I don't suppose so. But we're not doing anything, so what have we got to lose?
Pearl Graham
I think it's down this way, Mr. Waring? Yeah. Yeah, that's right. See? 419.
Ed Hurley
Hazel, you're wonderful. How long have you been in town?
Pearl Graham
I just got in this afternoon. Boy, was that plane jammed.
Ed Hurley
How'd you know about this office, huh? Well, if you only got in this afternoon. Who told you Sloan had an office in this building?
Pearl Graham
He. Rodney, what did you think?
Ed Hurley
I don't know what to think. You're a very strange girl, Hazel.
Pearl Graham
You really mean that?
Ed Hurley
I can't make out it.
Pearl Graham
You were saying?
Ed Hurley
It's open.
Pearl Graham
So what's the matter?
Ed Hurley
Well, easy to see. You never listen to mystery shows?
Pearl Graham
Ooh, I think they're awful.
Ed Hurley
Where's the light switch?
Pearl Graham
I got it.
Ed Hurley
My, my. That boyfriend of yours is quite sloppy, isn't he?
Pearl Graham
Larry, please.
Ed Hurley
A heck of a way to leave an office. Yeah, just look behind this door. Now, take it easy. Angela.
Pearl Graham
Larry's friend.
Ed Hurley
Yeah. How are you? Si.
Pearl Graham
What are you doing?
Ed Hurley
The last time we met, he tried to make me talk, so I thought I'd do as much for him. Well, you can't say I didn't try.
Pearl Graham
What now, Mike?
Ed Hurley
Now. Angel. The police. Homicide. Sergeant Corbett. How you doing, sergeant? Oh, Mike. Yeah, you've been keeping yourself. Your client's been asking for you. Tell Mrs. Graham she's got nothing to worry about. I'll be down in five minutes with the proof she didn't kill her husband. What's your idea? Proof? Ever hear of a lad named Cy Nichols? There was a cy Nichols who used to run with Capone. Wouldn't be surprised if that's the boy. I just found his body. Yeah? Where? In Larry Sloan's office. I heard Sloan was in town. Oh, yes. He's definitely moved in, sergeant. You'd be surprised how quickly he picked up our local customs. What's all this got to do with your client? Well, it figures that the same party who killed Danny Graham kill Cy Nichols. Well, what's wrong with you, Corbett? Nichols couldn't have been murdered more than an hour ago. And for the last 24 hours, you've had my client under lock and key. Guess again, Mike. Mrs. Graham raised ten grand worth of bail at half past seven tonight. She didn't. And if you think that's something, wait till you hear the payoff. The guy who put up the dough was your friend Larry Sloan. Well, the sergeant's news has probably surprised Mike, but me, I prefer more pleasant surprises. Mike, the first time I ever sat down to enjoy a salad topped with delicious miracle whip.
Pearl Graham
Miracle whip has a flavor so pleasing, Miracle whip tastes so lively, so teasing.
Ed Hurley
Miracle Whip.
Pearl Graham
Only one of its kind.
Ed Hurley
Miracle Whip.
Pearl Graham
Best salad dressing you'll find.
Ed Hurley
Miracle Whip is the only one of its kind because it's a different type of salad dressing. Made from a secret craft recipe, Miracle Whip combines the best qualities of old fashioned boiled dressing and fine mayonnaise. So it's truly distinctive and delicious with a flavor millions of folks call just exactly right. Try it, won't you? One taste will tell you why it's America's favorite salad dressing. The one and only Miracle Whip. Now back to the adventures of The Falcon. Just 20 minutes have passed since Mike Raring learned that Pearl Graham was released on bale. Supplied by Larry Sloan. Now, as we find the Falcon and Hazel.
Pearl Graham
Is this your apartment?
Ed Hurley
What does it say on the door?
Pearl Graham
Michael Wearing, private detective. You're a detective?
Ed Hurley
Yeah, but don't breathe it to a soul. I'd hate for it to get out.
Pearl Graham
Gee, you must be a real lifesaver.
Ed Hurley
Nah, don't let that hole in my head fool you, huh? You see, it's better when I turn on the light. Me. You know, I'm gonna have to change the lock on that door. This seems to happen every week. Well, you got such a wonderful location, you can't blame people for making it their headquarters. Hello, Hazel.
Pearl Graham
Don't you talk to me, Fred.
Ed Hurley
Take it you two know each other.
Pearl Graham
You don't hear me boast about it.
Ed Hurley
Well, you might introduce me just the same. I'm Fred Desantis. I thought so. You won't believe this, Desantis, but I've been looking all over for you. Well, that makes us even. Because I've been looking all over for you. Where's your client? My client? Anna Graham's wife. She's got 65 grand on my dough.
Pearl Graham
You're a liar, Fred. It ain't your money. Larry's got as much right to it as you have. I'll leave it to him.
Ed Hurley
Keep your mouth shut, Hazel. No, let it talk.
Pearl Graham
I'd like to see someone stop me. Let me ask you, Mr. Waring. Just because Larry made a mistake and trusted Fred to grab the payroll from the Mayfair plan while Larry was busy covering.
Ed Hurley
I told you to shut up.
Pearl Graham
It's a free country.
Ed Hurley
That don't belongs to me, Waring. Well, what do you expect me to do about it? Get it from Pearl Graham. She's got it. How do you figure that? Because a girlfriend of mine turned it over to her husband and gave him a note for it. So? So if they didn't find it on Danny's body. Who else could have grabbed it? I never thought of that. Did you, Sergeant? Frankly, no.
Pearl Graham
Hey, what's he doing here?
Ed Hurley
Playing cops and robbers? Do you hear enough, Corbett? You betcha. He's going to make a great witness against your client. He'll make a better one against himself. What are you talking about? Well, it's getting late, Desantis. And if you don't get it by now, believe me, you certainly will at Sing Sing. Well. Hey, Eddie, this coffee's awful good. Oh, thanks, Mike. Yours okay, Sergeant? Yeah, it's. Well, Ed. Oh, say, Mike, just between us girls, will you admit that you were lucky? I was lucky? Yeah. There was no way on earth you could have pegged to Sanders for the killer. Oh, it's as obvious as the hole in my head. Now, you grant me that the 65 grand he and Larry Sloan stole in that payroll heist was the motive for the killing? Well. Well, then Sloan had to be innocent. Why do you say that? Because if Larry had the money, he wouldn't have bothered to bail out my client. He put up 10,000 hoping she'd lead him to 65. Would have been a good investment if it worked. Yeah, that's practically what he told us when we picked him up. I'm sure it's the only thing that makes sense. Well, what about your client? Well, what about her? Well, she could have murdered her husband. Yeah, but not Cy Nichols. Why not? First of all, Pearl had no motive. And second of all, she was with. So by a process of elimination, it had to be Desantis. He killed Graham because Danny double crossed him. Then he went to work on Cy Nichols, hoping you'd pin it on Sloan and get Larry out of his hand. Well, then Desantis had the dough all along. That's right. When Pearl Graham grabbed her kid and beat it after Danny's murder, Desantis just walked in and helped himself to the loop. Hey, wait a minute. Aren't you overlooking something? I don't think so. Well, aren't you forgetting Hazel? Oh, say, you're right. I am? Thanks for reminding me. So long, Ed. I'll be seeing you, Sergeant. Imagine this rich, delicious, chocolate flavored malted milk made right in your own kitchen. Good idea, isn't it? And it's easy to make, too, with craft wonderful chocolate flavored malted milk. Here's how you do it. Make a tasty paste of some craft malted milk and a little milk in the bottom of a tall glass. Fill that glass with chilled milk, stir it again, and you have it a delicious craft malted. Real nourishing as well because it's full of all the food values in milk. Enjoy a craft malted often. Get a jar of craft chocolate flavored malted milk from your groceries tomorrow. The Case of the Bashful Boss the Case of the Bashful Boss that's the title of next week's Adventure of the Falcon when Mike Waring learns that some people operate on the theory that the way to keep a bad man down is to shoot him down. So be sure to listen at this same time next week to another exciting Adventure of the Falcon brought to you by the Craft Company. The Adventures of the Falcon transcribed today are based on the famous character created by Drexel Drake, produced by Bernard L. Schubert, written tonight by Eugene Wang and directed by Richard Lewis. Music was by Arlo Les Damon was starred as the Falcon with Chuck Webster as Sergeant Corpus. Dead Hurley, he's speaking for the craft foods company.
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Adam Graham
Welcome back. This one kind of reminded me of Philovance because they would have this trope where one of the featured criminals would have this one little tick. Usually on Philovance it was a verbal tag like always saying I don't tolerate mistakes or something like that. In this case it was constant hypochondria references. It's not my favorite way to do characterization. I do, however, love the reference to events happening once a week. You can always count on the Falcon for those little meta in jokes. I did also enjoy that little joke that I think came so quick that you might miss it when she said that he was a lifesaver and he said don't let the hole in my head fool you, which was a pun on the lifesaver's candy, which, you know, have the hole in the middle. It's clever. I think it'd fall into that modern day dad joke classification, but I guess that's about my speed. I should also talk about the Falcon, suggesting that the titular characters views on women were not unlike those of Adolf Hitler. This is a rare thing, but it's probably one of the more surprising things that may shock your typical modern listener. Because Hitler references in the 21st century are discouraged in most cases. And most people recognize that if you go to Hitler, most of the time you're trying to really provoke outrage in place of an actual argument. And even online that falls under Godwin's law that the side that first compares its opponents to Hitler loses the debate. But in the post war years, there was a period on radio where Hitler could be invoked as an insult. In some cases it makes sense. For example, on the Adventures of Superman, Jimmy Olsen compared a crooked political boss who was trying to set people against each other due to race or ethnicity to Hitler. And I got that reference. But I've heard it also sometimes in sitcoms where it's being used on someone who is just overly bossy. And I tend to think that it's best not to bring up Hitler for trivial things. And it's rarely helpful in context of any sort of disagreements. I kind of wonder when as a society we arrived at that sort of consensus, which I think is on those sort of Hitler comparisons, because that's always been the way that I understood the world worked. And I would have thought it would have started right after the war because the people who went through the war would be closest to the event. They would have had people who died in the war. And so I imagine that Hitler comparisons would be kind of a touchy thing. But it seems like the only time they were actually okay was in the immediate aftermath of the war. So I don't know, I'm just curious about it. It may just be a generational difference as well. All right, well, listener comments and feedback. And we start out over on Spotify where Vicky writes. The Miracle Whip commercials were very amusing. Thanks for keeping them. Well, thank you so much, Vicki. And I've definitely been enjoying the in episode ads. I think one of the really fun things they did over radio that pretty much got dropped pretty early in television was where you would have the talent interacting with the ad you used. You'll hear that quite a bit on something like fibber McGee and Molly or Burns and Allen or the Bing Crosby programs with Ken Carpenter. These are really a unique trait because you don't really hear that sort of interaction regularly on most other series. I think that Tony Marvin interacted with various characters on Casey Cross photographer prior to doing a commercial. And of course, who could forget Holmes and Watson selling clipper craft clothes in one of the elusive agent stories? But to have it as a week in, week out thing is really kind of special for a detective program. Also on YouTube, we got just some general positive comments from Lori, Paul and Rasputin. Thank you so much. Really appreciate you taking the time to comment. Now it's time to thank our Patreon supporter of the day and I want to go ahead and thank Pam. Pam's been one of our Patreon supporters since February 2024, currently supporting the podcast at the shamus level of $4 or more per month. Thank you so much for your support, Pam, and that will actually do it for today. If you're enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software and be sure to rate and review the podcast wherever you download it from. We'll be back next Monday with another episode of the Falcon, but join us back here tomorrow for Bulldog Drum and Wear.
Ed Hurley
Quick Cut the light, Jenny. I'm all right, sir. That flashlight made us a perfect target for a moment there. Shots. Someone was lying in wait for us over there. We're certainly lucky. We certainly are, Denny. This mean cat didn't break when I dropped out. Maybe it isn't such bad luck after all. The devil was that confounded cat, sir. Look what it got us into. Well, now let's see if it can get us out of it. What? We're getting back to Ginny in the car as quickly as our feet can carry us with an armed killer across the street. I told you, Father's a blessing. Recover our retreat dresses, as did our advance. Let's hope I get set to run for it. Follow me and say close my we made it. Yes. Maybe you were right about that min cat after all. Sir. Good luck so far. I hope it'll do as well for Jenny Morris. Huh? What do you mean, sir? She's not in the car, Denny.
Adam Graham
I hope you'll be with us then. In the meantime, send your comments to box thoroughly@greatdetectives.net Follow us on Twitter at radiodetectives and check us out on Instagram instagram.com greatdetectives from Boise, Idaho, this is your host, Adam Graham, son and all.
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Adam Graham
Coming up this week on the Old Time Radio Snack Wagon.
Ed Hurley
Well, boy? Yes, Mr. Finley. Where are you, boy? What about my house? Well, I'll tell you, Mr. Finley. Thank you. You said you'd be over with a down payment. What are you made of, boy? Rock, maple or pine? Something has come up, Mr. Finley. I got 15 people after this house.
Adam Graham
Listen to the Old Time radio snack wagon snackwagon.net or wherever you get your podcasts.
The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio: Episode Summary
Title: The Falcon: The Case of the Hypocritical Hypo (EP4551)
Release Date: November 18, 2024
Host: Adam Graham
Podcast: The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio
Host: Adam Graham Radio Detective Podcasts
In the fifteenth season of The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio, host Adam Graham presents an enthralling episode from The Adventures of the Falcon. Titled "The Case of the Hypocritical Hypo," this installment delves into a complex web of deceit, betrayal, and mystery set against the backdrop of 1950s Brooklyn. Listeners are transported into a bygone era where radio dramas thrived, with Graham expertly guiding them through the narrative while interspersing insightful commentary and humorous reflections.
The story unfolds on a rain-soaked Wednesday evening in Brooklyn. Fred Desantis anxiously awaits a visitor outside his hideout. As Danny Graham arrives, tension is palpable between him and Fred DeSantis, hinting at underlying conflicts related to financial dealings involving a substantial sum of $65,000.
Initial Confrontation:
Danny Graham seeks Fred DeSantis's help to manage a hypochondriac patient, revealing early signs of manipulation and potential threats. [02:43]
Pearl Graham's Desperation:
Pearl arrives, distressed over Danny's sudden disappearance. Her limited knowledge about Danny's work for Mr. DeSantis raises suspicions about his activities and possible dangers he might have encountered. [07:48]
Investigation Unfolds:
As the Falcon delves deeper, interactions with Larry Sloan and Hazel Fulton complicate the narrative. Pearl's account points towards financial discrepancies and untrustworthy associates, leading Falcon to question the true motives behind Danny's disappearance. [13:00]
Revelations and Twists:
The investigation reveals that Fred Desantis orchestrated Danny's demise over a double-cross involving the stolen money. Additionally, the involvement of Cy Nichols, a figure with connections to notorious criminals like Capone, adds a thrilling dimension to the case. [16:38]
Climactic Confrontation:
The Falcon pieces together the puzzle, uncovering that Hazel Fulton is instrumental in Fred Desantis's scheme. A final showdown ensues, leading to the unmasking of the true villain and the resolution of Danny's mysterious disappearance. [28:24]
Pearl Graham:
"Danny never did anything like this before." [08:24]
Fred Desantis:
"I swear by my kid." [08:20]
Cy Nichols:
"You must be Danny Graham." [08:02]
Host Adam Graham on Characterization:
"The Falcon suggesting that the titular character's views on women were not unlike those of Adolf Hitler [28:30]."
Miracle Whip Advertisement (Interspersed Humorously):
"Miracle Whip tastes really good. Not too sharp, not too mild, but just exactly right." [03:58]
After the main narrative, Adam Graham offers a reflective commentary on the episode's themes and characterization. He highlights the controversial comparison made by the Falcon regarding women's roles, noting its historical context and the sensitivity of using such references today:
"It's a rare thing, but it's probably one of the more surprising things that may shock your typical modern listener..." [14:00]
Graham further appreciates the authentic integration of period-specific advertisements, such as the humorous Miracle Whip commercials, which not only provided comic relief but also served as a nostalgic nod to old-time radio dynamics:
"One of the really fun things they did over radio that pretty much got dropped pretty early in television was where you would have the talent interacting with the ad..." [25:00]
He also engages with listener feedback, acknowledging positive comments and encouraging audience participation through various platforms:
"Listener comments and feedback. And we start out over on Spotify where Vicky writes. The Miracle Whip commercials were very amusing. Thanks for keeping them." [30:00]
Betrayal and Trust:
The episode intricately explores themes of betrayal, particularly through Fred Desantis's duplicitous actions and the complex trust dynamics between characters like Danny, Larry Sloan, and Hazel Fulton.
Financial Deception:
Central to the mystery is the missing $65,000 payroll, which serves as the motive behind Danny's disappearance and subsequent crimes committed by Desantis.
Gender Roles and Societal Views:
The Falcon's outdated views on women's roles reflect the societal norms of the 1950s, adding depth to the character interactions and highlighting the generational shifts in perspectives.
Nostalgia and Authenticity:
The inclusion of period-accurate advertisements and character portrayals immerses listeners in the era, evoking a sense of nostalgia and authenticity that enhances the storytelling.
Adam Graham wraps up the episode by teasing the next adventure, titled "The Case of the Bashful Boss," promising another captivating mystery where the Falcon tackles new challenges:
"The Case of the Bashful Boss that's the title of next week's Adventure of the Falcon..." [27:30]
Listeners are encouraged to continue their journey with The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio by subscribing, rating, and reviewing the podcast on their preferred platforms. Engagement through comments and social media is also promoted, fostering a community of mystery enthusiasts and old-time radio aficionados.
Final Thoughts
"The Case of the Hypocritical Hypo" masterfully combines suspenseful storytelling with authentic period elements, offering both entertainment and a window into the Golden Age of Radio. Through well-crafted narratives, engaging character dynamics, and insightful host commentary, Adam Graham ensures that both new listeners and long-time fans are thoroughly captivated.
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This summary captures the essence of the episode, providing a comprehensive overview while highlighting key moments and thematic elements. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to old-time radio detective stories, "The Case of the Hypocritical Hypo" offers a compelling listen that bridges nostalgia with timeless mystery.