The Falcon: The Case of the Rolling Stones (EP4731)|Cold War Radio Mystery

Summary

Title: The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio | Daily Mystery Dramas
Episode: The Falcon: The Case of the Rolling Stones (EP4731) | Cold War Radio Mystery
Release Date: June 16, 2025

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Introduction

In this gripping episode of "The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio," host Adam Graham delves into "The Falcon: The Case of the Rolling Stones," a classic detective drama from the Golden Age of Radio. Set against the tense backdrop of post-World War II Sicily, the story weaves a complex web of deception, revenge, and investigative prowess.

Plot Summary

Arrival and Transformation

The narrative kicks off on August 10th, 1952, as Mario Gentili arrives in Sicily under the scrutiny of Army Intelligence. Tasked with infiltrating local criminal elements, Mario undergoes a deliberate transformation to hide his true identity:

Les Damon (The Falcon): "Mario made like a butterfly when he emerged from his cocoon." [03:42]

Mario's strategic disguise is pivotal as he embeds himself within Palermo's underbelly, setting the stage for the ensuing mystery.

Interrogation and Suspicion

Mario's cover begins to unravel when Lieutenant Balbo suspects his true identity. The interrogation reveals Mario's past as Mario Tosselli, a known Communist party organizer, raising red flags about his intentions in Sicily:

Lieutenant Balbo: "Prior to 1945 he was known as Mario Tosselli. Tosselli? You'll recognize him." [06:25]

Despite Mario's protests of innocence, Balbo remains unconvinced, leading to heightened tensions and the involvement of Michael Waring, also known as the Falcon.

Unraveling the Conspiracy

As the Falcon investigates, connections between Mario and Cesare Dellavoro come to light. Margarita Dellavoro's mysterious murder intensifies the case, revealing layers of betrayal and hidden motives. The discovery of a forged gun links Cesare to the crime, deepening the mystery:

Michael Waring (The Falcon): "You're gonna be fine. You cannot fool me, signor." [26:41]

This pivotal moment underscores the Falcon's determination to uncover the truth, even as the plot thickens with each revelation.

Climactic Confrontation

The story reaches its climax when the Falcon confronts Cesare Dellavoro, exposing the intricate deception that lured Mario Gentili into a trap. The revelation that the gun used was a blank and the introduction of Sergeant Achille Bresci as an accomplice highlight the Falcon's strategic brilliance:

Sergeant Bresci: "With my luck, signore, I'll wager Rossellini wasn't even listening." [26:40]

The Falcon's ability to see through the lies ensures that justice prevails, wrapping up the case with a satisfying resolution.

Host Commentary

After the dramatic conclusion of the episode, host Adam Graham provides insightful commentary:

Adam Graham: "That's Sicily for you. A land of hot tempers and cold steel." [26:40]

Graham reflects on the episode's connection to a lost 1950 broadcast titled "The Case of the Rolling Stones," suggesting that this rendition may repurpose the original script with new details set in New York. He engages with listener comments, particularly discussing the Falcon's use of his real name in undercover operations, contrasting it with more enigmatic characters like the Shadow.

At [33:22], Graham muses:

"There's a lot to unpack with how the Falcon operates openly compared to the Shadow's mysterious anonymity."

This discussion enriches the listener's understanding of character development and narrative choices within the series.

Notable Quotes

• Michael Waring (The Falcon): "Well, that's Sicily for you. A land of hot tempers and cold steel." [26:40]

• Sergeant Bresci: "With my luck, signore, I'll wager Rossellini wasn't even listening." [26:40]

• Adam Graham: "The Falcon was trying to make a living so he couldn't be too mysterious about his identity or he wouldn't get business." [37:43]

Conclusion

"The Falcon: The Case of the Rolling Stones" masterfully combines suspenseful storytelling with intricate character dynamics, embodying the essence of old-time radio mysteries. Host Adam Graham's thoughtful analysis and engagement with the material provide listeners with a deeper appreciation of the genre's enduring appeal. As the podcast wraps up with teasers for upcoming episodes and listener interactions, it reaffirms its commitment to delivering nostalgic yet compelling detective dramas.

Listeners new and old will find this episode a testament to the timeless allure of radio mysteries, skillfully brought to life by veteran actors and the insightful guidance of Adam Graham.

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Transcript

[Les Damon]

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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 first, I do want to encourage you if you're enjoying the podcast, to follow us using your favorite podcast software. And I also want to let you know about Moly Bees. You've had cookies before, but not like this. Moly B's Gourmet Cookies are the kind of cookies you'll be talking about long after the last crumb. We're talking flavors like Straight Fire with marshmallows, milk chocolate and a kick of cinnamon whiskey, or the tropical escape of Pina Coladas with coconut, white chocolate and Fruity Pebbles. These aren't just snacks, they're experiences. Each cookie is handcrafted in small batches, so every bite is a melted your mouth masterpiece. Whether you're gifting them or keeping them for yourself. I won't judge. These cookies elevate the moment. Now I've got something special for you. Go to mollybz.com that's mollybz.com and use the code box13 at checkout to get a 10% discount on your order. And yes, I'll earn a commission when you use my code. So you're not just treating yourself, you're helping support the show. So don't wake. These cookies are the ultimate treat for anyone with taste buds. Go to mollybees.com and use code box 13. All right. Well, now, from August 10th, 1952, here is the case of the Rolling Stones.

[Les Damon]

Hello? Yes, this is the Falcon speaking. Oh, Lisa. Now you'll have to include me out tonight, Angel. Army Intelligence is sending me to Sicily. That's right, the island off the coast of Italy. Seems some boy down there is running wild with a knife. And they hope I might offer just the kind of proposition he might like to take a stab at. Once again, the National Broadcasting Company brings you the transcribed Adventures of the Falcon starring Les Damon. The Adventures of THE Falcon Dedicated to private investigators everywhere. Those hard hitting detectives who like Mike Waring, risk their lives to aid law enforcement agencies. So join him now when the Falcon solves the case of the Rolling Stones. Anyone who thinks hide and seek is strictly for kids ought to take a look at Mario Gentili. Mario's been playing the game for years, and very successfully too. But then, look what he'll do not to be caught. 24 hours ago he was in Naples, where he grabbed a nightboat for Palermo, Sicily. While the ship plowed through the Straits of Messina. Mario made like a butterfly when he emerged from his cocoon. His brown hair was dyed black and his mustache was gone. Six hours later, the new Mario was relaxing in a furnished room off the Via Vittorio Emanuel in Palermo. But even the best of us have to be it once in a while. And if you believe in sound effects, this may be Mario's turn now. Who? Who is it? It's Edda, Mario. Who? Edda Casalini. Momento. Oh, my darling. Stop it, Edda. Forgive me, but it has been so long. Who told you I was in Polari? No one. Then how did you find out? Every night I watched the boat from Naples, hoping someday you would return. Tonight my wish was granted. How did you recognize me? It would take more than died here to fool a woman in love. Oh, Mario, why did you leave me? Because I had business to attend. There was not another woman? No. You lie. I saw A girl with you that morning you left. She was a business associate. I'll kill her if I ever see her again. Don't be a fool. Now get out. No, no. I did not mean it. Mario, give me one more chance. Will you behave? I swear on my father's grave. All right. You won't regret it, Darling. If there is anything I can do. There is. Can you get in touch with Bianca Aldi for me? Is she the one? You are talking like a fool. I must see Bianca. Mario.

[Adam Graham]

Shh.

[Les Damon]

Open up. Gentile. There is no one here by that name. We know better. This is the place. You idiot. You let them heal. Oh, darling, I was most careful. You might as well surrender, Mario. We have the building surrounded. Listen, Edda. There is a staircase in the kitchen. It leads to the roof. I will not go without you. You will do as I say if anyone asks you. You've been hanging. Wash up there. Now hurry. When will I see you? Sooner than you think. Now go. This is your last chance. Gentile. Are you going to open this door or shall I have my men break it down? That won't be necessary. Trente. All right. Argente. Take three men, search the place. What is the meaning of this? May I see your papers, please? My papers? Of course. But I assure you that your superior officer were. Yes? I seem to have mislaid them. I submit you never had them to begin with. What is your name? Mario Gentile. It was not always so, was it? You were once known as Mario Tosselli. You are insane. But you know who Mario Tosselli is? I have no idea. Well, if you will be kind enough to accompany me to the Palazzo Cheramonte, I will be only too happy to enlighten you. After you, Signore. Forgive me if I seem ungrateful for your hospitality, but I've been here for three hours and I've yet to learn the charges against. Patience is a great virtue, Mario. You should cultivate it. As it happens, we are waiting for an American. An American? A gentleman named Michael Waring. Perhaps you have heard of him? No. A distinguished personality. He was once a private investigator in the United States called the Falcon. A very colorful name, no? No, A matter of taste. Today he is with American intelligence. It is of no interest to me. Well, I am sure you will be of interest to Senor Waring. You see? Avante. Hello, Lieutenant. Michael, my good friend. How are you, Emilio? Better now, as I regard your countenance. I did not expect you till noon and I flew over as soon as I got your message. Ah. It aroused Your curiosity no end. What's it all about? First I should like you to meet Mario Gentile. Mario, this is Signor Wearing. I am delighted. Well, I'm not. Look, Lieutenant, you didn't bring me all the way from Rome to meet him. You are familiar with his reputation? Yeah, he's an organizer for the Communist party. That does not arouse your interest? No. The party isn't outlawed nittaly. But suppose I told you in an earlier day he had another name. Prior to 1945 he was known as Mario Tosselli. Tosselli? You'll recognize him. Sure. The Allied War Crimes Commission has been looking for him for years. They've got a rope necktie they'd like to try on him for size. This is absurd. I never even heard of the man. And you're the only one in Italy who hasn't. To Selli. Organize a squadra dazione in the militia Volunteria for Schacht Sisti. They were Mussolini's personal strong arms squad. Don't think of it, Michael. Today we are honored by the presence of his hound. You are mistaken. What were you doing in 1945? I was fighting with the partisans near Genoa. Who was your commander? You will not find any record for him. We were a small group. And prior to 45 I was in France. Doing what? That is my own affair. But I tell you I'm not Toselli. Well, it should be easy enough to check. Lieutenant, didn't Tosselli come from Messina and see And I'll take him there first thing in the morning. In the meantime, can you put him away on ice? I'd hate for him to spoil after all these years. There it is only me, your honor. I wish to see the prisoner Mario Gentili. It is not permitted. I have written authorization from Lieutenant Balvo. Let me see. You are holding it upside down. Can't you read? Do you take me for an illiterate? Of course I can. This is most strange. I was instructed that the prisoner. You question the authority of the tenente? Of course not. What do you have in that basket? Some food for my cousin. See? A bottle of wine and some cheese. All right. Edda, how are you? Ma? How in the name of. The lieutenant was most kind. You may have five minutes. We are most grateful, your honor. I warn you not to create any disturbance. How did you manage this? I had a pass. A pass? It was most official looking. Now there is a great artist. You should not have taken the chance. They will discover the forgery in a minute. A minute is all I require. I brought you some food. Mario, see your favorite wine. My mother prepared especially for you. She hopes you will drink her health. Careful. There is a stiletto in here. Huh? It may be thin, but is made of the finest steel. Good girl. Ah, you know how much I love you. There was never any doubt in my mind you'll be able to use it. Yes, indeed. Tomorrow I leave by railroad with this new wedding for Messina. And this may be just the thing to relieve the monotony of the trip. Very good, very good. My thanks to your very dear mother. What time you got, sergeant? It lacks 10 minutes of one o' clock senior wedding. How's our friend Mario doing? He's asleep. Shall I waken him? No, there's plenty of time. I wonder if they got anything to read on this train. I saw Evander in the next car. Well now, if this were the super chief, all I'd have to do is buzz if you were to like me. No thanks, I'll do it myself. Keep an eye on Sleeping Beauty. You may rest easy, Signor Sergeanti. Giovanni Martelli has never betrayed a trust. Okay, Pazan, I'll be back in a couple of minutes. Ah, I trust you slept well, comrade Mario? Huh? One observing you would think you had not a care in the world. I haven't. If you overlook these handcuffs. Would you happen to have a cigarette? Grazia. You know, Sargenta, you are a very good fellow. You know, you made a very definite impression on my cousin. Your cousin? The young lady who visited me in my cell yesterday. She thought you were very handsome. She did? She's your most attractive female herself. Hey, Would you like her address? Very much. She lives at Numero Trecento Via Quarantasete. Why don't you write it down? I will remember it. You said that Treschento, you cannot drive. My schooling was interrupted at a tender age. Ah, zigabish. It's very understandable. If you will remove the handcuffs, I will be very glad to do it for you. What? No, no. Come, Sergeant. Certainly you have no fear of me. A well proportioned man like yourself. That was the first thing Edda noticed about you. Even that uniform couldn't hide those muscles. Hard work does it. Well, it is out of the question. Oh, of course you are afraid of the American, Signore. Sergeant Giovanni fears no one. Stick out your hand. Many thanks, my friend. Hurry, write it down before senior Waring returns. It will be a pleasure. Ha. I believe I had the pen in my pocket. Oh, yes. Hey, where did you get the knife? You're mistaken. This A pen. Here. You can feel the point, Mario. Yes, Sergeant. Yes, indeed. I am sorry it had to be you. I would have preferred it if it were, Sergeant Wary. Arrivederce, Sergeante. I fear we shall never meet again. You and your children can expect to live long, thanks largely to better medicine and surgery. But you could expect to live even longer were it not for the danger of automobile accidents. If driver education could be taught in all of our schools instead of only a third of them, it might someday help to save the life of your own son or daughter. Remember, in your own automobile to drive as though your life depends on it. It does. Now back to the Adventures of the Falcon. Well, that's Sicily for you. A land of hot tempers and cold steel. And when I got back to my compartment on the train, I found Mario. Gentili was gone, but the good sergeant was still waiting. He was huddled on the floor, the blood pouring from half a dozen wounds. Yeah. Giovanni had reached the end of the line. But I had a hunch the big attraction for Mario was in Palermo, where we all started. So I headed back for the Hotel Rodolfo to await further developments. And they weren't long in coming. Excuse me, please. I'm looking for the Signor Michael Waring. Come in. My card, senor. Cesare Dellavoro. See? It was suggested by the Lieutenant Balbo that I see you. Sit down. Grazia. Senor, you care to join me? Later, perhaps. All right. What can I do for you? De la Vorone? You have it within your power to save my life, huh? You had in your custody yesterday a man who has called himself Mario Gentile. That was not his right name. How would you know? Because I have known him since 1934. In those days, he was known as Mario Tosselli. You sure of that? Positive. We were almost inseparable. I see. I assure you, senor, I was not a Fascist. I knew Tosselli purely in a social way. He was in love with a woman named Margarita Pecci. I took her away. Let me get this straight. She honored me by becoming my wife. How did Tasseli take that? Oh, most badly. He swore to kill us both. It was only by going to France that we managed to escape his vengeance. And you think he returned to Palermo to keep his oath? For myself, I do not care, senor. But Margarita, does she know Mario is in Palermo? All Cecily knows. The papers have carried little else. It was her idea. I consult the carabinieri. Where's your wife now? She waits for me at Laura's hotel. Laura? Laura Reynolds. She's an old friend of Margarita. What does she look like? Well, she's most attractive. No, no. I mean, is she a blonde? A brunette. But why? A woman visited Mario Gentili in his cell before he escaped. And we've got a hunch she supplied the stiletto. Oh, it could not be Laura. Why not? Well, she's an American. I see. Or I tell you what not to worry to Lavoro. Not that that will stop her. But I promise you we'll do everything we can. Cinque. Is the clock right, Laura? No, it's a couple of minutes slow, Margarita. But yes, I promised to call by 4. Something must have happened to him. Maybe he was hit by a car. How can you say such things? It's real easy. You never liked my husband. I never liked spinach either. So what does that prove? As far as Cesare, I will not permit you to say another word against him. Margarita Ola refused to listen ever since. That must be Cesare now. Come in. I trust you ladies will excuse me, but I am searching for the Signora Delavor. I am Margarita de Lavoro. I kiss your hand, signor. I recognize you immediately from your husband's description. I am Antonio Lombardi. Antonio Lombardi? Did Cesare not call and advise you I was to drive you home? No. That is most strange. That is the understatement of the week. No cabisco. Oh, forgive me. Signor Lombardi, this is my old friend, Laura Reynolds. Delighted. Oh, it's my pleasure. Why didn't Cesare come here himself? With the problem at hand, he thought it best not to take chances. What about it has all been taken care of. Shall we go? Yes, of course. Goodbye, Laura. Marguerite, wait a minute. Oh, sorry, dear. I do not wish to keep Cesare away. Well, call me the minute you get home. I've got the strangest feeling. Your concern does you credit, signorina. But you need not worry. Rest assured, I shall take care of her properly. Arrivederchi. Senor Lombardi? Si? Did you not say we were to meet Cesare at home? Did I? Yes. Then so be it. I would never think to contradict a lady. But this is not the way to Via Toledo. We are going south. There is the Marina. The sea is over there. Will miracles never cease? I would have sworn. What are you stopping here for? For this. You must understand, my dear, I bear no grievance against you personally, but my employer. Who is your employer? Would you care to venture a guess? No. I don't have to. I know. Let go, you fool. Let go before I. Why Must you women always be so difficult? Is that you, Margarita? No, it's Mike Waring for just a moment. Senor Waring, this is a surprise. Please come in. Thanks. I'm so sorry my wife is not here to meet you. She would be most honest. Look, Delavau, there's something I've got to tell you. I just came from Lieutenant Balbo's office. He has apprehended Mario Gentile. No, not yet. But Then what is it? Tell me, senor, what is it? It's about your wife. Something has happened to her. Yes, but where is she? Where is she? You must take me to her at once. Wouldn't do any good. No, no, I'm afraid it's. Yes. He kept his promise. Uh huh. I feel kind of helpless to Lavaro, but if there's anything I can do. No, no, senor. No one can help me if you will be so kind as to leave me nigh. Would like to be alone for a while. That's the story, Ms. Reynolds. The Carabinieri found a body an hour ago. Naturally, I thought you should know. I had a feeling when I saw that man. Couldn't you trace him through the car? You tell me how. Well, I watched them from the window as they walked out. His car was parked right across the street. It wasn't the blue neche. How did you know? A tourist reported a stolen early this afternoon. Now, getting back to this Antonio Lombardi. What did he look like? Well, he's about five foot five, dark haired, dapper. You're sure it wasn't Mario Gentili? No, no, I'm positive. I've seen Gentile's picture. And he must have been an old comrade doing Mario a favor. Then why did he say Cesare sent him? Well, you don't think your friend Margarita would have gone with him if he admitted he came from Mario? Why didn't Cesare call the way he promised? Because when he left me, he went into a huddle with Lt. Balbo at the Palazzo Calamante. Well, I still think it's strange. That's your privilege. How long have you known De Lavaro? I met him at Cannes a year ago. And his wife? I met her at the same time. It's funny, I had an idea you and Margarita were practically sorority sisters. You know, I don't think I like your attitude. I don't blame you. I don't like it myself. Do you mind if I use your phone? Go right ahead. Thanks. I hope that's a local call. It is. I'd like to see How De Lavoro is getting along. Got a feeling I shouldn't have left him. Hello, De Lavaro? Who is this? Mike Waring. In the name of heaven, senor, where are you? I have been searching all over Palermo for you. Why? What's up? I just heard from Mario Gentile. When? Not more than five minutes ago. He said now that he had disposed the margarita, it was my turn. Well, listen to Lavoro. I'm gonna hang up. As soon as I do, I want you to call Lieutenant Balbo. Does not matter anymore, Senor. I just wish to thank you for all that you do. Hello? Hello, De Lavoro. What's the trouble? You call it, angel, but from where I'm sitting, it sounds like murder. Let's hope I'm wrong. He doesn't answer. You didn't really expect him to. All right, get out of the way. What are you going to do? Put my foot through the panel. There ought to be an easier way. Well, there is, but this is more fun. Laura. That ought to do it. Now, let's see if I can reach the lock from here. Entrez. Madame. Thank you. Now what? Well, don't you notice anything unusual? Well, what do you expect me to do, scream? I had my hopes. Well, I'm sorry if I disappointed you. That's what I call a double take. He isn't dead? No. See if there's any brandy around. You think he should have it? No, but I could stand a drink. Signor Waring. Don't talk. You got here a little late. Don't you worry, Delavoro. You're gonna be fine. You cannot fool me, signor. No, I mean it. It's practically a scratch. But it burns. Well, that's to be expected. Was it Mario Gentile? I couldn't say for sure. I did not see his face. Wait a second. What's this in the corner, huh? What do you know? Oh, it is a gun. Yep, that's what it is. German Mauser. You know, it looks kind of familiar. Is it the same weapon that was used? I wouldn't be surprised. You got a handkerchief? I finally managed to locate some brandy. Nice work, Angel. Give him a shot. What about you? I'll take a rain check. Right now I want to see Lt. Balbone. With a little luck, I think we can wrap this up. You, my friend, much as it pains me to disagree with you, you are wrong. Mario Gentile is not within 50 miles of Palermo. Then who took that shot at the Lavoro? The same assassin who killed his wife? No, I Doubt it, Lieutenant. If a man is motivated by revenge, he'll want to do some of the trigger pulling himself. Otherwise, why did he come back to Sicily in the first place? That is a very good question. We got a million good questions. What we need is a couple of answers. You think your ballistics department is through checking the gun? We shall see. Sergeante Lieutenant Balbocui. Bravo Gracitante Sergenti. What would he say? The gun was of German manufacture. It was a Mauser. Oh, tell me something I don't know. What about fingerprints? Not a one. Well, we expected that. I don't suppose they were able to run down the serial numbers? On the contrary, Michael. There they were most successful. The gun was purchased two weeks ago in Naples. In Naples? And you will die when you hear the name of the man who bought it. Don't tell me. Yes, it was purchased by an American named Michael Waring.

[Adam Graham]

Oh, no.

[Les Damon]

You are upset. And I thought you would be delighted by the news. I guess there is no pleasing some people. We all shudder and shake our heads sadly over the catastrophes. We hear about the floods, explosions and other accidents which take five or more lives. We wonder if it could happen to us too. Well, there is one type of catastrophe to which most of us are exposed many times every day if we drive or ride on the highways. It's the head on collision between two motor vehicles. It means almost certain death or injury to the drivers and passengers of those vehicles involved. Take a lesson from the fatality figures and drive as though your life depends on it. It does. And now back to the adventures of the FAL well, there's one thing you can say about cops the world over. They all get the same look on their faces when they're pleased. And Lieutenant Balbo was wearing that look now. And no wonder. Here I've been needling him about Mario Gentili and it turns out the gun that killed Margherita De la Voro belonged to me. A most revolting development. Well, my friend, what have you got to say for yourself? Very little. I wonder. That gun looks familiar. Mario must have stolen it from my hotel room. But I was right about one thing. He's in Palermo. So it would appear. If there was one link we could find in the chain. Say, how far do your records go back on Gentile? As gentile only till 1950, when he came to Sicily as an organizer for the Communist Party. You have no idea what he did before then? Only theories. But you don't know for sure? No one does. That's where you're wrong, Lieutenant. I know one thing now about our mystery man. What? How to trap him. And maybe Senor De Lavoro will be kind enough to furnish the bait. Let's ask him anyway. Senor Waring, I do not like this idea. I do not like it at all. Look, De Lavaro, either you have confidence in me or you don't. Well, I don't know about him, but I don't. Well, that's not too important, Laura. You're just part of the scenery. But I do not understand this business. It seems to me that I'm what you call a target. That's exactly what you are. Don't you see? It's our only chance of grabbing Mario. By this time he knows he didn't kill you this afternoon. Well, if he's a man of his word, he'll return. That's what we're figuring on. But if he kills you. Not a chance, Lieutenant. Balbo's got the place surrounded. Not entirely, senor. You will oblige me by raising your hands. You're the doctor. Listen, Gentile. Ah, Senhor Dellavoro, I believe. Yes, yes. You know, you have taken the name of Mario Gentile in vain. Naturally, I am displeased. I can explain everything. But why explanations are so. Well, you're just gonna stand there, Waring? What else can I do? He's right, signorina. You see, I am a man with a purpose. I do not intend to be frustrated. All right, Delavoro. If you have anything to say, now is the time. In heaven's name, have mercy. Wearing, I beg you. Stay where you are, senor. I swear, Gentile, I did not mean any harm. I did not think it would matter to you. It matters a great deal. Tell them the truth. I never saw this man before in my life. What? Continue. He was not responsible for Margarita's murder. I was. I hired the assassin. Mascarzoni. Mike. All right, Angel. It's all right. Nothing wrong with him. He just fainted. But that bullet, it was a blank. Right, paisan? Uh huh. I don't get it. Allow me to introduce myself, signorina. I am Sergeante Achille Bresci. Sergeant Bresci? Yeah, he's one of Lieutenant Balbo's boys. You did a beautiful job of acting, Achillene. So what good is it? With my luck, signore, I'll wager Rossellini wasn't even listening. Well, Mike, maybe I'm thick, but I've got to admit that I still don't get it. Oh, it isn't difficult, Laura. It all comes down to the fact that the Lavoro hired that man to murder his wife. Yes, but how did Mario Gentili figure in? He didn't. I don't understand. You see, when Mario escaped, it gave De Lavaro the bright idea. The papers had played up Mario as a man of mystery. Nobody knew anything about his background. So De Lavaro spread the story that Mario came to Sicily for the purpose of killing him. And Margarita? Oh, yes, but she knew the truth. Sure, but no one had a chance to ask her. She was murdered before either Balbo or myself could see her. Well, then the shot we heard over the phone while De Lavoro was talking to him was self inflicted. Oh, you're guessing all this? Well, that's why we had to bait a trap. And when the Lavoro mistook Achille Bresci for Mario Gentili, that quenched it. You know, you're pretty clever. You ought to see me do card tricks sometime. Ha ha. I'd love to. All right, I'll show you one of my favorites. Now, let's pretend you're a woman and I'm a man, and we're all alone on the marina, facing the sea. And then what happens? Well, that's what makes this such a wonderful trick, angel. Even I don't know how it's going to turn out. The Case of the Gorgeous Greek. The Case of the Gorgeous Greek. That's the title of next week's Adventure of the Falcon, when Mike Waring learns that when Grease gets too hot, somebody is bound to catch the devil. The Adventures of the Falcon are based on the famous character created by Drexel Drake. Produced and transcribed by Bernard L. Shubert, written by Eugene Wang and directed by Richard Lewis. Les Damon was starred as the Falcon, with Joan Allison as Laura. This program came from New York. This is Fred Collins speaking. You can make a difference in someone's life, including your own, with a job in home care.

[Adam Graham]

These jobs offer flexible schedules, health care.

[Les Damon]

Retirement options, and free training. They also provide paid time off and opportunities for overtime. Visit oregonhomecarejobs.com to learn more and apply. That's oregonhomecarejobs.com.

[Adam Graham]

Welcome back. Another case where the Falcon solves the murder, but doesn't actually complete his mission. It's worth noting that there's a lost episode of the Falcon from December 31, 1950, that logs indicate was called the Case of the Rolling Stones. So this could have been a repurposing of that script and of course, the core plot could have occurred in New York with different details. If this ever comes into circulation, it might be one of those cases where it'd be good to do a twice told tale episode just to hear all the changes from one version of the story to the next. And we start out with the case of the Broken Key. Emmett writes, that was a really good one. Oh, I'm gonna miss the Falcon. Definitely agree. We do have a few more weeks of Les Damon and after that we do have one more actor who played the Falcon in George Petrie. Though that's gonna be a weird change after more than or nearly two years of Les Daemon. So we've got a little bit of it left. But it's going to be weird not having the Falcon on Monday. Thankfully we're still a few months down the road from that reality. Then we have a couple of comments on YouTube regarding the episode the Case of the King of clubs and Mechanic 6682 writes, Every single time Mike Waring says his name or someone else does, the person hearing it says, you mean the Falcon? Even in Europe? Why would Waring use his real name to go undercover? It makes no sense, but apparently got lucky because Keller and Lilly are the only two people throughout the series who didn't recognize his name. Well, there was also that one police officer back in that one episode, but I suspect that there were members of the President's cabinet with lower name recognition than the Falcon based on the way that the series portrays raise it most of the time Waring's not technically going undercover, so I guess he doesn't have a lot of experience in is kind of an odd choice for intelligence to make. To have someone work as an operative who is that famous. It would be like today one of those former military guys who's on all the cable TV channels getting called up to work in active service. It does hamper your effectiveness a little bit if you're that well known and also limits the ways that you can operate. Stanley, as in the Shadow, never told his real name. The only person was the lady. She knew his real name and never told anyone about him. And that is a fair point about the Shadow. I guess the big difference between the Falcon and the Shadow is that the Shadow was just a mystery man. The Falcon was trying to make a living so he couldn't be too mysterious about his identity or he wouldn't get business. But thank you so much. Appreciate the comments, Stanley. And now it's time to thank our Patreon supporter of the day and I want to go ahead and thank Randy. Randy's been one of our patreon supporters since December 2023, currently supporting the podcast the Shamus level of $4 or more per month. Thank you so much for your support, Randy. And that will do it for today. If you're enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software. And if you're enjoying the podcast on YouTube, be sure to like the video, subscribe to the channel and mark the notification bell. We will be back next Monday with another adventure with the Falcon, but join us back here tomorrow for Charlie Chan.

[Les Damon]

Where Yu Chen I can explain precisely, Cecile. That is reason we are asking you to enter study in order that you may explain in comfort and in detail this gun. It is my husband. First the death of Landini I am scared. Then the death of Dr. Swan I am more scared. I asked my case. Please bring me that gun. I keep it in my room. Do you make a habit of carrying it with you as you go from your room to the kitchen? No, Monsieur Sheriff. But this morning I find someone search my room. I think perhaps Monsieur Chan. Perhaps, Sheriff, Suppose they search again find gun. Then they blame Michael for this murder. Why, Cecile, should you assume that we should be likely to blame your husband? Because, Monsieur Chan. Because. Yes, Cecile, because. Because, Monsieur, it was not a secret that my husband hate that swan. Many times before my husband you say I could kill that swan like what you call embassy dog. But that, Monsieur, you understand, was nothing. Nothing but talk. We talk too much, my husband. I am very much afraid, Cecile, that talking too much is a family complaint.

[Adam Graham]

I hope you'll be with us then. In the meantime, send your comments to box Thirteenreatetectives.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 signing off with.

[Les Damon]

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[Adam Graham]

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[Les Damon]

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[Les Damon]

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[Les Damon]

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[Les Damon]

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