The Falcon: The Case of the Running Waters (EP4701)

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Falcon – "The Case of the Running Waters" (EP4701)

Introduction "The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio," hosted by Adam Graham, delves into classic detective dramas from the Golden Age of Radio. In episode 4701, titled "The Falcon: The Case of the Running Waters," listeners are transported to 1950s Rome, where the savvy private investigator, Mike Waring—the Falcon—unravels a web of espionage, deception, and murder. This episode masterfully blends Cold War tensions with classic detective storytelling, offering a rich narrative filled with twists and compelling character interactions.

Plot Overview The episode opens with Mike Waring, known as the Falcon, receiving a call that propels him to Rome. Upon his arrival, he encounters Steve Waters, who introduces himself as a comrade involved in intelligence work. However, Suspicion arises when Winchester discovers inconsistencies in Steve's story, particularly concerning his connection to Kirby Patterson, an intelligence agent allegedly working undercover.

As the plot thickens, Kirby Patterson is found dead under mysterious circumstances, raising questions about Steve Waters' true intentions. The Falcon teams up with local authorities, including Captain Emilio Balbo and the astute house detective Julio Farinacci, to investigate the murder. Clues such as a coded notebook and discrepancies in witness testimonies lead Mike deeper into a conspiracy involving the Italian Communist Party and double agents.

A pivotal moment occurs when Mike confronts Marie Antonescu, a Romanian immigrant, who becomes a key suspect due to her entangled relationship with both Kirby Patterson and Steve Waters. Through sharp deduction and strategic questioning, Mike pieces together the truth behind the murders, revealing motivations rooted in revenge and political intrigue.

Key Characters

• Mike Waring (The Falcon): A resourceful and intelligent private investigator navigating the complexities of international espionage.
• Steve Waters: Initially presented as an ally, Waters' true allegiance becomes ambiguous, adding layers to the mystery.
• Marie Antonescu: A Romanian woman whose connections to both Waters and Patterson make her central to the unfolding drama.
• Captain Emilio Balbo: A seasoned officer of the Carabinieri, assisting Mike in the investigation.
• Julio Farinacci: House detective with insider knowledge, providing crucial information that propels the investigation forward.

Major Plot Points

1. Arrival in Rome: Mike Waring heads to Rome following a lead that promises answers to a complex murder case.
2. Encounter with Steve Waters: Initial interactions suggest collaboration, but inconsistencies hint at deeper deceit.
3. Discovery of Kirby Patterson's Death: Kirby's murder introduces a pivotal mystery that Mike must solve.
4. Investigative Collaboration: Partnering with Captain Balbo and Detective Farinacci, Mike navigates the murky waters of espionage.
5. Confrontation with Marie Antonescu: Mike's interrogation of Marie uncovers hidden motives and vital evidence.
6. Unraveling the Conspiracy: Strategic deductions reveal the true culprit, tying personal vendettas to broader political schemes.
7. Resolution and Reflection: The case concludes with clarification of motives and the dismantling of the espionage network.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Mike Waring on Espionage:

  • [02:26] "When it comes to murder, there's no place like Rome."

• Steve Waters Hinting at Deception:

  • [04:08] "You are a Comintern agent?"

• Marie Antonescu's Plea:

  • [19:17] "I must believe you. You are lying."

• Mike Waring's Deductive Insight:

  • [16:36] "You will be good enough to observe, Senor Waring."

• Final Revelation by Captain Balbo:

  • [27:03] "The murder of your colleague, Kirby Patterson is no mystery. He was killed by the Communist agent, Steve Waters."

Character Dynamics and Interactions Mike Waring's interactions are marked by his keen observational skills and unwavering determination. His dialogue with Steve Waters reveals early signs of betrayal, setting the stage for the ensuing mystery. Marie Antonescu's confrontations with Mike introduce emotional depth, highlighting the personal stakes involved. Captain Balbo and Detective Farinacci serve as vital allies, their collaboration with Mike showcasing the blend of local authority and private detective work essential to solving the case.

Themes and Insights "The Case of the Running Waters" explores themes of trust, deception, and the pervasive influence of Cold War politics on personal relationships. The narrative underscores the complexities of espionage, where alliances are fluid and motives often concealed beneath layers of deceit. The episode also touches on the moral ambiguities faced by individuals operating within intelligence frameworks, questioning the fine line between right and wrong in the pursuit of national interests.

Conclusion "The Falcon: The Case of the Running Waters" is a quintessential episode that encapsulates the allure of old-time radio detective dramas. Through intricate plotting, well-developed characters, and a suspenseful atmosphere, the episode offers listeners a captivating journey into the heart of mystery and intrigue. Adam Graham's insightful commentary further enriches the experience, providing context and appreciation for the storytelling craftsmanship of the era.

For those who cherish classic detective tales or seek to immerse themselves in nostalgic radio fiction, this episode serves as a compelling showcase of the genre's enduring charm.

Transcript

[Adam Graham]

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[Sam]

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[Fred Collins]

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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'll be bringing you this week's episode of the Falcon. But before we get started, I do want to encourage you. If you're enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software. And today's program is brought to you in part by the financial support of our listeners. You can support the show on a one time basis at support.greatdetectives.net or become one of our ongoing Patreon supporters for as little as $2 per month by going to patreon.greatdetectives.net but now, from July 13, 1952, here is the Case of the Running Waters.

[Emilio Balbo]

Hello?

[Mike Waring]

Yes, this is the Falcon speaking. Oh, Kathy, I'm glad you called. Now I'll have to have a rain check. Angel, I'm leaving tonight for Italy. Yeah, I just heard. When it comes to murder, there's no place like Rome.

[Les Damon]

Once again, the National Broadcasting Company brings you the transcriber 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 Running Waters.

[Mike Waring]

If you ever wondered why Rome wasn't built in the day, maybe I can explain. They didn't use American labor. Take a craftsman like Steve Waters. Mr. Waters is the rugged looking citizen sauntering down the 8th floor corridor of the Hotel National. He just arrived in Rome an hour ago without baggage and without friends. And already he's got a gun and a girl. Now that's what I call a vast worker.

[Marie Antonescu]

Yes.

[Sam]

You Marie Antonescu?

[Marie Antonescu]

That is right.

[Sam]

Well, I must say this is a pleasure. I'm Steve Waters.

[Marie Antonescu]

I beg your pardon?

[Sam]

You never heard of me?

[Marie Antonescu]

No.

[Sam]

Well, that's funny. I'm an old friend of your family. Matter of fact, I just saw your father yesterday.

[Marie Antonescu]

You saw my father?

[Sam]

Yeah, and he sends its love.

[Marie Antonescu]

Oh, but that is impossible. My father is in Bucharest. I do not understand. Romania is behind the Iron Curtain.

[Sam]

Yeah. Yet apparently I can get in or out anytime I want. I guess I must be a magician, huh?

[Marie Antonescu]

You are a Comintern agent?

[Sam]

That's a possibility.

[Marie Antonescu]

What have you done to my father?

[Sam]

Nothing. Absolutely nothing. He looks real fine. You'd think prison agreed with.

[Marie Antonescu]

He is in prison?

[Sam]

Oh, didn't you know? I'm sorry. But you don't have to worry. He won't be there long either way. Cigarette?

[Marie Antonescu]

No.

[Sam]

You sure?

[Marie Antonescu]

I want nothing from you.

[Sam]

Not even your father's life.

[Marie Antonescu]

What do you want, Mr. Waters?

[Sam]

All right, I'll make it short and sweet. Now, you're kind of friendly with a boy named Kirby Patterson.

[Marie Antonescu]

How did you learn that?

[Sam]

I probably know more about Kirby than you do. For instance, did you know he's with American Intelligence?

[Marie Antonescu]

No.

[Sam]

Yeah. Yeah, he's a spy, just like I am. Only he's working the other side of the street. His current assignment is to meet a man in Rome named Mike Waring. Only he's not gonna make it.

[Marie Antonescu]

He isn't?

[Sam]

No. No. You're gonna see to that.

[Marie Antonescu]

Get out.

[Sam]

Okay.

[Mike Waring]

Oh.

[Sam]

Anything you want me to tell your father?

[Marie Antonescu]

Wait.

[Sam]

What?

[Marie Antonescu]

What is it you wish?

[Sam]

When do you expect to see Kirby again?

[Marie Antonescu]

Tonight at 7.

[Sam]

Well, now, suppose the two of you have a drink up here before you go out. Only when you pour Kirbys, add the contents of this bottle.

[Marie Antonescu]

You expect me to poison him?

[Sam]

Oh, now, let's not jump to conclusions. Now, this won't kill him. It'll only put him out long enough for me to keep his appointment. Mike Waring.

[Marie Antonescu]

You are going to pretend to be Kirby. I will not do it.

[Sam]

Look, Marie, let's not argue. We both know you will. Just take care of that bottle.

[Marie Antonescu]

Where are you going?

[Sam]

Isn't this your bedroom?

[Marie Antonescu]

Oh, you cannot sleep in there.

[Sam]

Oh, I don't intend to. Now, you see, I figure you and Kirby need a chaperone, what with this drinking and such. So I just keep an eye open to see that you don't get into trouble. Marie, I don't like the way you look. You sure you'll feel all right?

[Marie Antonescu]

I feel fine. Kirby. What makes you say such a thing?

[Sam]

Your hands are like ice. I'm gonna get your coat. Where is it?

[Emilio Balbo]

In the bedroom.

[Marie Antonescu]

Don't go in there.

[Sam]

What's the matter?

[Marie Antonescu]

I hate to be treated like an infant, that's all. Someone would think I was helpless.

[Sam]

Yes, but you've got a chill.

[Marie Antonescu]

I tell you, I'm all right. I just need a drink.

[Sam]

All right.

[Mike Waring]

Where do you keep the.

[Marie Antonescu]

Never mind. I'll fix it myself.

[Sam]

You're not gonna let me do anything tonight.

[Marie Antonescu]

What will you have?

[Sam]

Scotch in the rocks.

[Marie Antonescu]

Kirby, you know I love you.

[Sam]

I certainly hope you do.

[Marie Antonescu]

I would die if anything happened to you.

[Emilio Balbo]

Now, what brought that on?

[Marie Antonescu]

I just hope you understand. Sometimes we cannot help ourselves.

[Sam]

Okay, Marie, let's have it. What are you trying to tell me?

[Marie Antonescu]

Nothing. Damn. Here's your drink.

[Sam]

Thanks.

[Marie Antonescu]

Well, Salute.

[Sam]

Salute. Hey, where'd you get this stuff?

[Marie Antonescu]

Is something wrong?

[Sam]

It's got a peculiar taste.

[Marie Antonescu]

It's your imagination.

[Emilio Balbo]

How do you know?

[Sam]

You haven't even tasted yours.

[Mike Waring]

Oh.

[Marie Antonescu]

Oh, no, it is fine.

[Sam]

I still say it's got an off taste. Here, you try mine.

[Marie Antonescu]

You're trying to be ridiculous. They were both ports of the same bottle.

[Sam]

What are you getting so steamed up about? All I said was.

[Marie Antonescu]

Marie, what is it?

[Sam]

I don't know. I can't catch my breath.

[Marie Antonescu]

Maybe if you sat down.

[Sam]

Get me some water.

[Marie Antonescu]

Yes, darling.

[Sam]

Hurry, honey. I feel like I'm gonna. You wake the baby.

[Marie Antonescu]

What have you done to him? Water.

[Sam]

What did I do? I'm just an innocent bystander.

[Marie Antonescu]

He did.

[Sam]

No, no, no. He's gonna be fine. Now, why don't you just sit down and relax till Mike Waring's train pulls into Rome, huh? Oh, I sure hope it's on time. We'll have to give Kirby another treatment if it.

[Mike Waring]

All right, pal. What do you think you're doing?

[Sam]

Oh, scusa, senora.

[Mike Waring]

I look for my friend.

[Sam]

They tell me he's in this compartment.

[Mike Waring]

Did you think he was hiding in my luggage?

[Emilio Balbo]

No, capisco.

[Mike Waring]

In case you hadn't noticed, that's my bag you're handling. Oh.

[Sam]

I want to see if this is his suitcase.

[Mike Waring]

What does that tag say?

[Emilio Balbo]

Michael Waring.

[Mike Waring]

Well, now that we've got me identified, who are you?

[Emilio Balbo]

Roberto Stefani.

[Mike Waring]

Roberto Stefani?

[Sam]

Si.

[Mike Waring]

What were you doing with my grip?

[Sam]

Oh, you made a mistake.

[Mike Waring]

No. You did. You should have closed the straps.

[Sam]

All right, I tell you the truth. I have to make sure you really are Michael Waring.

[Mike Waring]

Why? You work for American intelligence? No. How did you find that out? Did they not tell you in London a man would meet you on the.

[Sam]

Rome Express to give you your next assignment? No.

[Mike Waring]

Maybe they.

[Sam]

How you say? Double check.

[Mike Waring]

You are to go to the hotel Nacional and meet the Kirby Patterson there.

[Sam]

Am I right?

[Mike Waring]

Keep talking.

[Sam]

You are supposed to deliver some information.

[Emilio Balbo]

To him which can be used by.

[Mike Waring]

Our friends in Romania. How come you know so much? I work for American Intelligenza, too. That's pretty good.

[Emilio Balbo]

You do not to believe me.

[Mike Waring]

What a question, Senor Waring. Please stand still. Oh, well, you pack a gun, naturally, in our work. Yeah. Tell me more about your work, Roberto. I see your dues are paid up through August, huh? Well, isn't this a membership card in the Italian Communist Party?

[Emilio Balbo]

Oh.

[Sam]

Oh, well, I can explain this, signora.

[Emilio Balbo]

Yes, I'll bet you can.

[Mike Waring]

Tell the comrades I enjoyed my entrance to Rome. Only next time, let me choose my own welcoming committee.

[Sam]

Let me get this straight, Waring. You mean this Roberto Stefani actually had the nerve to pose as one of our boys?

[Mike Waring]

Yeah. He even knew I was supposed to meet a Kirby Patterson in Rome.

[Sam]

Sure gonna hand it to the bums. They don't miss a trick.

[Mike Waring]

No, Lucky I'm suspicious by nature. I used to say I wouldn't trust my own mother.

[Sam]

So naturally, you want to see my credentials. I was wondering when you'd get around to that.

[Emilio Balbo]

Come here.

[Mike Waring]

Kirby Patterson. Five nine, 172 pounds. Brown hair, brown eyes, birthmark and left temple. You certainly fit the description.

[Sam]

I ought to. I wrote it myself. When are you leaving for the States?

[Mike Waring]

Just as soon as I finish this assignment.

[Sam]

Well, there's no time like the present. Where's the dope?

[Mike Waring]

Right here in this notebook.

[Sam]

It's in code.

[Mike Waring]

What did you expect? How soon do you think you can get it to your contact in Romania?

[Sam]

We'll have it by Thursday, maybe Wednesday. Expecting someone?

[Mike Waring]

No. Put the notebook away. Right. All right. Come in.

[Julio Farinacci]

Senior wedding?

[Mike Waring]

That's right. My car. Giulio Farinacci, Hotel National.

[Sam]

I'm gonna run along, Mike.

[Mike Waring]

Okay, Kirby. Lots of luck.

[Sam]

Yeah, same to you. Oh, lift one for me when you get back to Times Square.

[Mike Waring]

I'll do that. What can I do for you, Julian?

[Julio Farinacci]

I am what you call the house detective here.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, well, I'm glad to meet you.

[Julio Farinacci]

The honor is all mine, senor. It is a great pleasure to greet my opposite number from the great democracy across the Atlantic.

[Mike Waring]

How's that again?

[Julio Farinacci]

Well, are you not the private detective they called the Falcon?

[Mike Waring]

Only when they can't think of anything worse.

[Julio Farinacci]

You are here on business?

[Mike Waring]

No, I've retired. Julio.

[Emilio Balbo]

What a pity.

[Julio Farinacci]

I had hoped to be allowed to cooperate. No one knows the criminal mind like Giulio Farinacci. I trust you will forgive me for Mentioning it, but as one in the profession, you will understand what the senior who was just here, you called him Kirby.

[Mike Waring]

What about it?

[Julio Farinacci]

It is an unusual American name.

[Mike Waring]

No, not two.

[Julio Farinacci]

Why, in the lobby yesterday, I heard a foreign lady call a gentleman Kirby. He did not look like your friend.

[Mike Waring]

You sure?

[Sam]

Yes.

[Julio Farinacci]

He was a tall, blonde man.

[Mike Waring]

Was Kirby his first or last name?

[Julio Farinacci]

I would have no way of knowing.

[Mike Waring]

Julio, this is very important. Now, if you run across this other Kirby again, let me know. I'd certainly like to meet him.

[Sam]

Senor Waters. What's the matter with you, Roberto? Can't you see I'm busy?

[Emilio Balbo]

But the Senor Patterson.

[Sam]

Here he is opening his eyes. Oh, it's about time too. Give him some water.

[Mike Waring]

Here, senor. Huh?

[Sam]

Drink. By you, Kirby.

[Emilio Balbo]

Who are you?

[Sam]

Well, generally I go under the name of Steve Waters.

[Emilio Balbo]

Steve Waters?

[Sam]

Yeah. Although lately I've been using yours. I. I don't understand.

[Julio Farinacci]

Oh.

[Sam]

Oh, your headache.

[Mike Waring]

Where's Marie?

[Emilio Balbo]

Marie?

[Sam]

Marie Antonescu. Isn't this her room? Yeah. Yeah. Now that you mention it, I believe it is. Where is she? Well, one of my associates took her for a ride. I didn't think this was any place for a woman. Especially if we wanted to have a little man talk. You recognize this? No. It's a notebook I got from Mike Waring. Mike Waring?

[Emilio Balbo]

Yeah.

[Sam]

Only it's in code. Would you happen to have the key? Let's see now. Muscle touch. I got a mickey. Did you hear that, Roberto? He thinks he was drugged. What the. Who would do such a thing? Well, I wonder. Well, if I'm not the world's prized chump Senior Waters.

[Mike Waring]

All right.

[Sam]

Put down that phone, Kirby. Operator. Look, boy, don't make me do something. You'll be sorry. Fool. Operator.

[Emilio Balbo]

Senor Waters, Hang up the phone. But he is dead.

[Sam]

Well, then he certainly won't want to use it. Hang up, Roberto. We got work to do.

[Les Damon]

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 high schools instead of only a third of them, it might someday help to save the life of your own son or daughter. If your schools don't have these courses demand driver education for your children. If your own automobile is not in the good repair it should be, be sure to have it fixed. Remember to drive as though your life depends on it.

[Emilio Balbo]

It does.

[Les Damon]

Now, back to the adventures of the.

[Mike Waring]

F. Well, that's life for you. One minute you Got it. The next you haven't, Miss. Kirby Patterson learned the hard way. But I had no idea what was going on. The first I knew of it was some eight hours later. I just finished tangling with a Messer Bragioli at Angelo's on the Villa Cavour when I looked up and saw a gentleman dressed in blue standing over me. If his uniform wasn't a giveaway, his feet were. They were flat. He was a cop, all right. His name was Emilio Balbo and he was a captain in the carabinieri. It seemed that Capitano had heard of me and wanted to show me the local sights. It was a deluxe 50 cent tour. He started with the morgue and that was my finish.

[Emilio Balbo]

You will be good enough to observe, Senor Wedding.

[Mike Waring]

I'm observing.

[Emilio Balbo]

I would be most interested in your deductions.

[Mike Waring]

Well, offhand, I'd say he was either English or American. Probably American, judging by his clothes. He must have been pretty handy with his fists.

[Emilio Balbo]

And what do you baste it?

[Mike Waring]

The broken knuckles on the right hand. How come his clothes are so wet?

[Emilio Balbo]

Perhaps you can guess.

[Mike Waring]

You fished him out of the tyrant.

[Emilio Balbo]

Exactly.

[Mike Waring]

Well, he wasn't in there long. Maybe four or five hours for me.

[Emilio Balbo]

Davide, would you care to venture a guess as to his identity?

[Mike Waring]

No, I'm afraid not.

[Emilio Balbo]

The desk clerk at the Hotel Nazionale said he visited you this afternoon.

[Mike Waring]

He's out of his mind.

[Emilio Balbo]

Perhaps I can refresh your recollection. His name is Kirby Paterson. What?

[Mike Waring]

That's impossible. Or is it? If he's Kirby Patterson, who's the other one?

[Emilio Balbo]

What other one?

[Mike Waring]

The boy who called on me yesterday and I gave him the. Listen, Capitano, you're positive this is the right Kirby Patterson?

[Emilio Balbo]

Absolutely. He was identified by a member of the American Embassy.

[Sam]

Poor devil.

[Emilio Balbo]

You have no idea who killed him?

[Mike Waring]

Yes, I've got a big idea.

[Sam]

Who?

[Mike Waring]

The fellow who called himself Kirby Patterson.

[Sam]

What the.

[Mike Waring]

If you're confused, think of me. But maybe I know the man who can clear up this mess.

[Emilio Balbo]

Who?

[Mike Waring]

The house stick at the Hotel National. I'll let you know how I make out.

[Julio Farinacci]

The more Chianti, Signor. Wearing?

[Mike Waring]

No, thanks, Julian. Right now I have more pressing problems.

[Julio Farinacci]

My ears are at your command.

[Mike Waring]

Well, you told me you saw a woman with a man named Ken in the lobby of the National.

[Sam]

See?

[Julio Farinacci]

I did.

[Mike Waring]

Are you sure about that?

[Julio Farinacci]

The memory of Giulio Farinacci is not to be doubted, sir. It has been said.

[Mike Waring]

Okay, okay. Who was the gal?

[Julio Farinacci]

Let me think.

[Mike Waring]

She might have been a guest of the hotel.

[Julio Farinacci]

How do you arrive at that conclusion?

[Mike Waring]

Well, you said she wasn't Italian, so it's a good bet. If she met Kirby at the national, she must have been living there because he wasn't.

[Julio Farinacci]

Beautifully reasoned.

[Mike Waring]

Well, you know who she is.

[Julio Farinacci]

It escapes me at the moment.

[Mike Waring]

Okay, we'll start with the hotel register. That ought to give us a lead.

[Julio Farinacci]

Wait, wait. I believe I know the very woman.

[Emilio Balbo]

Yes.

[Julio Farinacci]

Suite 8 13. Marie Antonescu.

[Mike Waring]

Marie Antonescu?

[Julio Farinacci]

She's from Romania, I believe.

[Mike Waring]

Thanks a lot, Julio.

[Sam]

Perhaps I can assist.

[Mike Waring]

No, no. You've done your share. From here on it's up to me. Let's hope I do as well. Hello, Marie.

[Marie Antonescu]

I beg your pardon.

[Mike Waring]

Aren't you Marie Antonescu?

[Marie Antonescu]

Yes.

[Mike Waring]

Gary Patterson sent me around.

[Marie Antonescu]

Kirby sent you here?

[Mike Waring]

In a manner of speaking.

[Marie Antonescu]

Oh, please come in.

[Mike Waring]

Thank you.

[Marie Antonescu]

Sit down.

[Mike Waring]

Thanks.

[Marie Antonescu]

I imagine Kirby's feeling very angry with me.

[Mike Waring]

No. As a matter of fact, he isn't feeling a thing.

[Marie Antonescu]

Oh, I am surprised.

[Mike Waring]

And he's dead.

[Marie Antonescu]

No.

[Mike Waring]

Yes.

[Marie Antonescu]

I do not believe you. You are lying.

[Mike Waring]

Where's my percentage?

[Marie Antonescu]

But they promised me.

[Mike Waring]

Now we're getting to it. What do they promise you?

[Marie Antonescu]

Nothing.

[Mike Waring]

Look, angel, you're in a jam. Stop talking.

[Marie Antonescu]

I know nothing, Mr. Waring.

[Mike Waring]

You know my name is Waring.

[Marie Antonescu]

You. You said so.

[Mike Waring]

No, I didn't. Kirby must have told you about his appointment with me. Kirby Patterson showed all right, but he wasn't the right boy.

[Marie Antonescu]

How do you know?

[Mike Waring]

Because I saw the genuine article down at the morgue. They just dragged him out of the Tiber. He wasn't pretty. Marie. The fish.

[Sam]

Stop it. Stop it.

[Mike Waring]

What's the matter? Getting sensitive all of a sudden? What did you do? Take a walk while they killed him?

[Marie Antonescu]

He wasn't killed here.

[Mike Waring]

No. What's that rust colored spot on the rug near the phone? That ain't borscht.

[Marie Antonescu]

But. But he told me would only put him to sleep.

[Mike Waring]

Who told you that?

[Marie Antonescu]

Steve Waters.

[Mike Waring]

Stocky lad, brown hair. A little birthmark over his left temple.

[Marie Antonescu]

Yes.

[Mike Waring]

How much did he pay you?

[Marie Antonescu]

You do not understand. This Mr. Waters came here yesterday. He told me they had arrested my father in Bucharest. And if I.

[Mike Waring]

If you didn't cooperate, you'd never see him again?

[Marie Antonescu]

Yes.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, come on, angel. You can dream up a better story than that.

[Marie Antonescu]

I swear it is the truth. You must believe me.

[Mike Waring]

That was the first time you saw this Steve Waters?

[Marie Antonescu]

Yes. He had just flown in from Romania.

[Mike Waring]

Then he might be out of Italy. But no, no, he wouldn't. That material is worthless unless it's decoded.

[Marie Antonescu]

What?

[Mike Waring]

Nothing. I Was just talking out loud. He's got to stay in Rome till he solves it. We're all behind the eight ball. If Mr. Waters is gone.

[Sam]

Two equals a 17 is I. Then 23 would have to be.

[Mike Waring]

O.

[Sam]

That doesn't work. There ought to be some.

[Mike Waring]

Is that you, Roberto?

[Emilio Balbo]

Si, Senor Waters.

[Sam]

Wait a second. I bring you something to eat. Well, put it down on the table. What do you got there? Pasta, lasagna, vino. That looks good.

[Emilio Balbo]

My wife will make.

[Sam]

Well, my compliments to the. The little woman, Senor. Steve, no. You know they are looking for you. Do tell. They ask questions everywhere. My wife, she's very nervous.

[Mike Waring]

We have a little one on the way.

[Sam]

What's your excuse, huh? You're nervous, too. Maybe you should be. Because when the Chief hears about Mike Waring nabbing you on the Rome Express with a Party card in your pocket. You would not tell him? He wouldn't kill me. Senor, I beg of you. For the sake of my wife and my children. Yeah, we've got to kill. Consider them. Yes. Well, my youngest is only 2 years old. Yeah, and you've got another bamboo on the way. Well, that does raise a problem. I got it. Roberto, why don't you quit the Party? You think the chief would let me? Well, of course. What? Didn't you know? The Party's like a social club. You can resign whenever you please. Sure. Just let me talk to the chief. I can guarantee your troubles are over.

[Mike Waring]

That's right.

[Julio Farinacci]

Julio Farinacci, at your service.

[Mike Waring]

What'd you find out, Julian?

[Julio Farinacci]

Your friend Stephen Waters came to Rome by way of Berlin.

[Mike Waring]

Berlin?

[Julio Farinacci]

There is no airplane service direct to Bucharest. He had a return ticket.

[Mike Waring]

What's the next flight out?

[Julio Farinacci]

Tomorrow morning at 11.

[Mike Waring]

Well, then there's a good chance that Waters might still be in Rome.

[Julio Farinacci]

Yes, he is. According to my information, he's living with a despicable type named Roberto Stefani.

[Mike Waring]

Roberto Stefani? That's the comrade I ran into on the Rome Express. What's the address?

[Julio Farinacci]

Corso Vittorio, number 23.

[Mike Waring]

Got it. Thanks a lot, Giulio. You're the greatest house dick this side of 42nd Street. Anytime you want a job at the Waldorf, let me know.

[Julio Farinacci]

Apparently, there is no one here.

[Mike Waring]

Apparently.

[Julio Farinacci]

Julian, could it be my informant misled me?

[Mike Waring]

Let's find out.

[Julio Farinacci]

Senor Waring, what do you call that.

[Mike Waring]

In English they call skeleton keys. Anyone coming up the landing.

[Julio Farinacci]

I do not like this. It is against the law.

[Mike Waring]

So is murder. You think they take an oath not to use soap and water when they Join the Communist Party?

[Julio Farinacci]

Those things they consider unimportant.

[Mike Waring]

What's behind that curtain?

[Julio Farinacci]

Oh, that is where they sleep, senor.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah, that.

[Julio Farinacci]

That is Stephen Waters.

[Mike Waring]

That was Stephen Waters.

[Emilio Balbo]

He's dead.

[Mike Waring]

Well, I didn't think that extra hole in his head was for ventilation.

[Julio Farinacci]

We should not be here.

[Mike Waring]

All right, take it easy, Julio. I want to look around. He had some papers that belonged to me. Help me turn him over.

[Julio Farinacci]

If the senor will excuse me.

[Mike Waring]

What do you know? Here's a little item that did the trick.

[Julio Farinacci]

It is a German Luger.

[Mike Waring]

Yeah, that's what it is. Got a handkerchief?

[Julio Farinacci]

I do not think the carabinieri will approve of this.

[Emilio Balbo]

No, I do not think they will. Ah, you're well. We'll meet again.

[Mike Waring]

I know this sounds antisocial, capitano, but you're the last man I wanted to see.

[Emilio Balbo]

My entrance was a trifle premature.

[Mike Waring]

A trifle?

[Emilio Balbo]

What a pity. I could have timed it to give you an opportunity to wipe your fingerprints off the weapon.

[Mike Waring]

Hey, now, wait a minute. You don't think I'd do that?

[Emilio Balbo]

Oh, I know appearances can be deceiving. Would you like to convince me here? Oh, wait till we get to my office.

[Les Damon]

Every day. Last year on the highways, an average of 103Americans like yourself or those in your family were killed in automobile accidents. But a lot of highway deaths don't seem to bother us much unless someone in our own family is killed. You can do your part in helping to fight disaster on the highways by being a safer driver and by working in your community and state for strict law enforcement. That means safer traveling for all of us at all times. You must remember to drive as though your life depends on does. Now, back to the Adventures of the Falcon.

[Mike Waring]

If you know anything worse than being discovered standing over a cold corpse with a hot gun in your hand, I'd like to hear it. Just drop me a line. And care of the Italian police in Rome. They'll know where to reach me. They don't have far to travel.

[Emilio Balbo]

Let me congratulate you, Senor Waring. You relate a very interesting story.

[Mike Waring]

So help me, it's the truth. Ask Giulio here.

[Julio Farinacci]

Si, capitano. I take an oath he does not lie. I was with him every minute of the time from the moment.

[Emilio Balbo]

Excuse me, please. You're wearing My apologies.

[Mike Waring]

Huh?

[Emilio Balbo]

You too, Giulio.

[Julio Farinacci]

I do not understand.

[Mike Waring]

Well, that makes two of us.

[Emilio Balbo]

You will be pleased to learn we have solved the case.

[Mike Waring]

You have.

[Emilio Balbo]

You are interested?

[Mike Waring]

Vitally.

[Emilio Balbo]

The murder of your colleague, Kirby Patterson is no mystery. He was Killed by the Communist agent, Steve Waters.

[Mike Waring]

Agreed? Agreed. But who killed Waters?

[Emilio Balbo]

You care to venture a guess?

[Mike Waring]

Yeah. Roberto Stefani. It was his apartment.

[Emilio Balbo]

But Roberto had no reason. The death of Waters was motivated by revenge.

[Mike Waring]

I don't see it.

[Emilio Balbo]

You are forgetting the woman in the case. Mariascu.

[Mike Waring]

Marie.

[Emilio Balbo]

She was in love with Garbi.

[Mike Waring]

And you think she killed Steve Waters?

[Emilio Balbo]

Yes.

[Mike Waring]

Never.

[Emilio Balbo]

Then how do you account for the fact that the murder gun belongs to her?

[Mike Waring]

What?

[Emilio Balbo]

And her fingerprints were found on the bed near the body.

[Mike Waring]

There must be some mistake.

[Emilio Balbo]

I hope not, for your sake, senor. If there is, we shall have to return to you. But let us see what the lady has to say for herself.

[Marie Antonescu]

I tell you, you are wrong, Capitano. I did not kill Steve Waters. I was in my hotel all evening.

[Emilio Balbo]

And the gun you say was stolen from your room?

[Marie Antonescu]

Yes. Ask Giulio. I reported it to him this morning.

[Julio Farinacci]

She tells the truth, Capitano.

[Emilio Balbo]

Did her door show signs of forced entry?

[Mike Waring]

No.

[Emilio Balbo]

Then she was merely preparing an alibi.

[Marie Antonescu]

No, it is not true.

[Emilio Balbo]

How do you explain your fingerprints being found near Steve Watters body?

[Marie Antonescu]

I cannot.

[Mike Waring]

Maybe I can.

[Emilio Balbo]

It would be most interesting.

[Mike Waring]

Well, it's simple. She was there.

[Marie Antonescu]

No.

[Mike Waring]

Look, Marie, you've got to stop lying. You're panicky and you're not thinking clearly. We can buy that stolen gun routine, but not the fingerprints. You had to be in that room. I tell you, don't bother unless it's the truth. Now, you went to Roberto's flat, didn't you?

[Marie Antonescu]

Yes, but when I got there, Waters was dead. But I did not kill him. I swear it.

[Mike Waring]

How did you learn where he was?

[Marie Antonescu]

Through a telephone call.

[Les Damon]

Whose?

[Marie Antonescu]

He would not give his name.

[Emilio Balbo]

This is most amusing.

[Mike Waring]

All right, give her a chance, Captain.

[Emilio Balbo]

Surely you don't believe her.

[Mike Waring]

Well, why not? What's so hard to believe about an anonymous phone call? You got one.

[Emilio Balbo]

Me?

[Mike Waring]

Well, you just didn't blunder into Roberto's place. Someone must have tipped you off.

[Emilio Balbo]

True.

[Mike Waring]

Well, there you are.

[Emilio Balbo]

But if she did not kill Waters, who did?

[Mike Waring]

Aren't you forgetting someone?

[Julio Farinacci]

Roberto Stefani.

[Mike Waring]

Well, he's a possibility, Giulio. Let's see if he meets the acid test. Now this whole case is tied up with politics. Steve Waters was brought to Rome to do a job. But in accomplishing it, he killed Kirby. That made him a liability to the Comrades. They had to get rid of him.

[Emilio Balbo]

Then the order to liquidate him must have come from a higher functionary here in Rome.

[Mike Waring]

That's right.

[Emilio Balbo]

But who could his superior be?

[Mike Waring]

Well, that's a Good question, Capitano. Just ask yourself, who knew I was looking for Steve Waters? Who was in a position to remove Kirby's body from Marie's room? Who alone had the opportunity to steal her gun?

[Emilio Balbo]

Obviously, someone employed by the Hotel Nazionale.

[Mike Waring]

Obviously.

[Sam]

You.

[Julio Farinacci]

You are referring to me?

[Mike Waring]

Who else? Yes, she did. A nice piece of work, Julio. I'm sure the party appreciates your efforts. Maybe when you join Steve Waters, you can start a new communist cell. You'll find a lot of hot prospects. Your attention, please. Flight 91. Well, I guess that means me.

[Emilio Balbo]

Before you go, Senor Bearing, on behalf of my colleagues, let me thank you again for your valuable assistance.

[Mike Waring]

My pleasure, Captain.

[Emilio Balbo]

I know it is undiplomatic of me to inquire, but that notebook of yours, did you ever find it in Julio's belongings?

[Mike Waring]

You know I couldn't answer that, but don't bother looking for it.

[Emilio Balbo]

I understand, but I'm just sorry you could not visit with us long.

[Mike Waring]

Oh, I'll be back, if only for one reason. They say when in Rome, do as the Romans, but I never got a chance to find out just what it is the Romans do. This I got to learn.

[Les Damon]

The case of the King of Clubs. The case of the King of Clubs. That's the title of next week's Adventure of the Falcon, when Mike Waring learns that when trumps are led, the game can be murdered. 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 Susan Douglas as Marie. This program came from New York. Fred Collins speaking.

[Fred Collins]

You can make a difference in someone's life, including your own, with a job in home care. These jobs offer flexible schedules, health care, 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. While I've enjoyed a lot of episodes of the Falcon, this is the first one in a few months that feels like those early episodes from 1950 that really helped me fall in love with the series. It takes a long time to get to the actual mystery. A lot of crimes happen, but there's no mystery. And then we get a mystery that we have to solve quickly. And we get thrown curveball after curveball with us jumping from one suspect to another. And it ends with Waring pulling a solution seemingly out of left field, but him being able to solve it because he kept track of what was important while as a member of the audience I got misdirect. So again, this was a lot of fun for me to listen to. Love the Cold War action. I also think in comparison to the first three episodes, Waring was a lot more active and really was able to be more heroic, whereas I think in some of the earlier ones he tended to be more of just having things happen to him, particularly in the last one. Alright, well, a brief announcement that next week we will be on our spring vacation, which means we'll be presenting encore presentations. Now, unlike the unplanned bereavement that we took a few weeks back, this week will have a theme. And if you're one of our YouTube listeners, we will have special compilations on Monday, Thursday and Friday in addition to the premiere of the Amazing World of Radio. So you'll have a lot more programming next week, but we will be taking a week off, so just be aware of that. And now we turn to listener comments and feedback. Had a couple of people comment on the Robert Vaughn connection. Robert Vaughn, the name of the spymaster in the first three episodes of this new plot arc for the Falcon, and also the name of the lead actor in the man from UNCLE I thought I mentioned that on the podcast. The sort of interesting coincidence, but maybe it wasn't prominently enough where we had some recording issue. Jeffrey writes over on YouTube regarding the episode the Case of the Vanishing Visa. Was listening to the episode and didn't recognize the speaker as the Falcon and had to keep trying to identify him. This guy doesn't seem to be the part. His voice sounds more like more of the ones used for the bad guys. Well, I'm not certain what might have been going on there, Jeffrey, but I will confirm that the voice on that episode indeed was Les Damon. But sometimes voices do sound different depending on the quality of the recording. And then we go over to Spotify where Prince Adam comments on the case of the Vanishing Visa. This episode is like the writers of Sam Spade and the Man Called X did, a collaboration. Well, of course Sam Spade did have some Cold War episodes, particularly during the Steve Dunn run. But I do know what you mean, because you do have this sort of international intrigue, but you still have the cadences and style of the Falcon as a radio program. They even kept the same introduction, which is kind of weird given that his entire mission is changed and he's claiming to be a private eye. It seems like you'd want to rewrite the opening to reflect what the series Status quo is. But maybe they couldn't afford to do that when the sponsor of the program is traffic safety. But all kidding aside, yeah, it still does have that feel of being a private I show different from something like the Man Called X or Dangerous Assignment, which really is built into this idea of being a program featuring international intrigue and mystery. Alright, well, now it is 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 2020 23, currently supporting the podcast at the Seamus level of $4 or more per month. Thanks 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 be sure to rate and review the podcast wherever you download it from. We will be back in two weeks with another adventure with the Falcon, but join us back here tomorrow for Charlie Chan. Where.

[Inspector Chan]

Yes, this is Inspector Chan. Yes. Ah, thank you.

[Mike Waring]

Smart idea that of wards having these phone extensions.

[Inspector Chan]

Indeed.

[Emilio Balbo]

Yes.

[Inspector Chan]

At the telegraph company I took liberty of wiring owner of house an occupied house where swan was found. As to who had key to same. Yeah, owner wise reply only Singh has key. Where is Singh Ting Mr. Chan?

[Marie Antonescu]

He's in the pantry.

[Mike Waring]

Singh, what do you like to have.

[Inspector Chan]

Like a tea sing?

[Mike Waring]

Oh boy.

[Inspector Chan]

Mr. Chan Sing you know where key to unoccupied house is kept? Oh sure, me know. Show me. Me too busy now. Me fix them everything you got. Show me that tea thing. Oh like he keep a collar on tea he hang on hook here Pantley. Oh oh he. He knows stay stuff. He is gone. Yes, a key all the semi gone. No stay stuff. You mean someone has stolen it? What you think?

[Adam Graham]

I hope you'll be with us then. In the meantime, send your comments to Box 13@Great Detectives.net follow us on Twitter at radiodetectives and check us out on Instagram instagram.com Great detectives from Boise, Idaho, this is your host, Adam Graham. Signing off.

[Fred Collins]

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