The Falcon: The Case of the Strawberry Blonde (EP4765)

Summary

The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio | Episode Summary: "The Falcon: The Case of the Strawberry Blonde" (EP4765)

Overview

In Episode 4765 of "The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio," titled "The Falcon: The Case of the Strawberry Blonde," host Adam Graham presents the final installment featuring Les Damon as the titular detective, the Falcon. This episode intricately weaves a tale of espionage, betrayal, and murder set against the backdrop of early 1950s Paris. As the Falcon delves into the mystery, listeners are taken on a suspenseful journey that highlights the complexities of loyalty and deception within intelligence operations.

Plot Summary

The story unfolds at the Perigordine sidewalk café on the Left Bank of Paris, where Madeleine Buckman, a strawberry blonde woman, awaits her husband, Stephen Buckman, who works at the American Embassy. Their conversation reveals deep-seated tensions; Madeleine is dissatisfied with her marriage, feeling neglected due to Stephen's obligations to the Communist Party.

Key Characters and Interactions

• Madeleine Buckman: A devoted member of the Communist underground, coerced into leveraging her husband’s position for espionage purposes.

• Charles Brissot: Madeleine's communist leader, who manipulates the Buckmans to obtain sensitive information from Stephen.

• Stephen (Steve) Buckman: Torn between his loyalty to his wife and his moral compass, ultimately becomes a reluctant participant in espionage activities.

• Hank Lewis: An intelligence officer who becomes entangled in the Buckmans' plight, leading to a climactic confrontation.

• Mike Waring (Les Damon): The Falcon, a seasoned detective navigating the murky waters of espionage to uncover the truth.

Critical Moments and Notable Quotes

1. Madeleine's Plea for Divorce (00:03:14):

   • Madeleine Buckman: "I can't stand him. Charles, when will you permit me to divorce him?"

   This plea underscores Madeleine's desperation to escape her manipulative husband and the constraints of her involvement with the Communist Party.

2. Revelation of Communist Ties (05:26:10):

   • Madeleine Buckman: "I have been a member of the underground apparatus here for nine years."

   This admission shifts the narrative, revealing Madeleine's true allegiance and setting the stage for ensuing conflicts.

3. Confrontation at the Safe (10:10:08):

   • Les Damon: "Are you a communist?"

   This direct question leads to Hank Lewis's unraveling, exposing his vulnerabilities and ultimately his culpability.

4. Climactic Showdown (17:03:58):

   • Hank Lewis: "I don't intend to. I'm gonna give myself up."

   Hank's decision marks a pivotal turn in the investigation, signaling his admission of guilt.

Resolution

As the Falcon investigates, he uncovers that Hank Lewis, under pressure from Charles Brissot, committed the murder of an American intelligence officer, Mike Waring. The meticulous examination of evidence, including the absence of powder burns and the method of the shooting, leads the Falcon to deduce that professional gunmen were involved, orchestrated by Madeleine Buckman to protect the Communist agenda.

In a final confrontation, Madeleine is exposed as the mastermind behind the manipulation and murder, driven by her commitment to the cause over personal relationships. The episode concludes with the Falcon successfully resolving the case, ensuring justice is served despite the tangled web of espionage.

Host's Commentary and Insights

After the narrative, host Adam Graham reflects on Les Damon's portrayal of the Falcon and the episode's overall quality. Highlighting Damon's ability to deliver a compelling performance, Graham notes:

• Performance Quality: "It started strong and it ended strong. And it was nice that Les Damon was given an opportunity to have a bit of a curtain call at the end of this run."

• Casting Choices: Graham discusses the casting of Ralph Bell as Dixie, acknowledging the unconventional choice but praising Bell's execution: "While it's odd to hear Ralph Bell trying to do a southern accent, he did a good job, as he always does."

• Plot Twists and Character Dynamics: He appreciates the episode's twists, particularly the unexpected involvement of the victim in his own murder plot: "The scene where the killing happened was great and it was very well set up."

• Logical Consistencies: Graham points out a minor inconsistency regarding the French policeman's access to the embassy but recognizes its necessity for the narrative: "We needed the policemen to find the Falcon knocked out for the Falcon formula to work, which is required to work even overseas and in the Intelligence Bureau."

Notable Quotes from Host Adam Graham

• On Les Damon's Run: "Les Damon was signed by ABC to play Inspector Mark Sabre of the Homicide Squad on ABC Mystery Theater, replacing Robert Carroll in that role, and he would continue there for two full seasons."

• On Episode Strengths: "The scene where the killing happened was great and it was very well set up. And it just came at me as a surprise given that the victim had ordered a hitman."

• On Character Dynamics: "When you're a ladies man, as Brissot was, you've got to expect someday to run across a lady killer."

Conclusion

"The Falcon: The Case of the Strawberry Blonde" serves as a fitting finale to Les Damon's portrayal of the Falcon, encapsulating the essence of old-time radio detective dramas with its intricate plotting and rich character development. Adam Graham's insightful commentary enhances the listening experience, providing context and appreciation for the episode's craftsmanship. This installment not only resolves the immediate mystery but also leaves the door open for future adventures, maintaining the enduring allure of classic radio mysteries.

Transcript

[Les Damon]

Sam.

[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 the last Les Damon episode of the Falcon. But first, if you are enjoying the podcast, I do encourage you to follow us using your favorite podcast software. And today's program is also brought to you in part by the financial support of our listeners. You can support the show on a one time basis, support GreatAttack and become one of our ongoing Patreon supporters for as little as $2 per month. Just go over to patreon.greatdetives.net but now, here from September 14, 1952, here is the case of the Strawberry Blonde.

[Les Damon]

Hello? Yes, this is the Falcon speaking. Oh, Donna, I'm glad you called, Angel. I'm leaving tonight for Paris. Yeah. American Intelligence is sending me to France. They want me to prove that 50 million Frenchmen can be wrong when it comes to murder.

[Eugene Wang]

Once again, the National Broadcasting Company brings you the Adventures of the Falcon starring Les Damon. The transcribed Adventures of the Falcon Dedicated to private investigators everywhere. Those hard hitting detectives who, like Mike Waring, risked their lives to aid law enforcement agencies. So join him now when the Falcon solves the case of the Strawberry Blonde.

[Les Damon]

The boy who wrote April in Paris knew whereof he sung. And let me tell you, September in Paris isn't bad either. Maybe the chestnuts aren't in blossom, but Mother Nature still puts on a heck of a show. As Exhibit A, I give you Madeleine Buckman. Madelaine is a strawberry blonde sitting at the corner table at the Perigordine, the sidewalk cafe on the Left Bank. And judging by that pile of saucers in front of her, she's been sitting there for quite a spell. Suddenly her eyes light up and you might think either the brandy is responsible or the man approaching her is her husband. And you'd be wrong on both counts.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Charles.

[Les Damon]

Darling.

[Charles Brissot]

It's so good of you to meet me. Have you been waiting long? Since when I shall never forgive myself. I'm a beast.

[Madeleine Buckman]

I would have been glad to wait for you for the rest of my life. I was so happy when you called this morning.

[Charles Brissot]

Your husband did not suspect anything?

[Madeleine Buckman]

Stephen? No.

[Les Damon]

Good.

[Madeleine Buckman]

I can't stand him. Charles, when will you permit me to divorce him?

[Charles Brissot]

You know, Madeleine, if I had my way, it would be different. But for the best interests of the Communist Party.

[Madeleine Buckman]

The Party, the Party. That's all I ever hear. What about me? Don't I count for something?

[Charles Brissot]

Of course you do, darling.

[Madeleine Buckman]

But the Party always comes first.

[Charles Brissot]

Naturally. We Communists are fighting for our lives. In the battle we must sacrifice our personal desires.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Well, I have done my share of sacrificing. I only married Stephen because he could be useful to you.

[Charles Brissot]

And he has been, as an employee of the American Embassy has been extremely valuable.

[Madeleine Buckman]

How much longer must we continue this far?

[Charles Brissot]

You must be patient, cherie.

[Madeleine Buckman]

I have been patient for a year.

[Charles Brissot]

I promise you, Madeleine, this is the last thing the party will request of you. Yesterday, General Harris held a very important meeting with Sir Peter Hayward of the British Foreign Office. They arrived at a definite decision what they would do in the event the Soviet again blockaded West Berlin. I want Stephen to get us the minutes of that meeting.

[Madeleine Buckman]

But you are being absurd. You won't do it.

[Charles Brissot]

But why not? He's helped us before.

[Madeleine Buckman]

That was different. I only reported to you what he told me in confidence as his wife. Now you are asking him to play the role of a traitor.

[Les Damon]

No.

[Charles Brissot]

You will ask him.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Haven't I done enough?

[Charles Brissot]

Darling, you must remember I too have made sacrifices. Every time I think of Stephen holding and kissing you, I die. But for the good of the cause, I have been willing to forget my feelings.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Oh, Charles, I love you so much.

[Charles Brissot]

And I love you, Madeleine.

[Madeleine Buckman]

If I can get Stephen to do.

[Charles Brissot]

This, the party will require nothing further of you.

[Madeleine Buckman]

You promise?

[Charles Brissot]

I promise. Now finish your drink.

[Steve Buckman]

Sherry.

[Charles Brissot]

Your husband is probably concerned about you. And under no circumstances do we want Stephen to worry, do we?

[Hank Lewis]

That you, Madeline?

[Madeleine Buckman]

Oh, Stylian. You startled me.

[Hank Lewis]

Oh, I'm sorry, honey. I didn't mean to. Here, let me help you with those packages.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Mercy. I have such a beastly headache.

[Hank Lewis]

Oh, sit down, baby.

[Madeleine Buckman]

I must have my eyes attended to.

[Hank Lewis]

Would you like me to rub your forehead?

[Madeleine Buckman]

No.

[Hank Lewis]

Well, how about a couple of aspirations?

[Madeleine Buckman]

No. No.

[Les Damon]

Are you sure?

[Hank Lewis]

You know they always will.

[Madeleine Buckman]

You stop treating me as a child. I know my own mind.

[Hank Lewis]

I'm sorry, sweetie. I only.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Who cares what you mean?

[Hank Lewis]

Madeline.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Madeleine. Madeleine, if you don't stop. Forgive me, Stephen. I am an evil tempered female. I don't know why you put up with me.

[Hank Lewis]

Put up with you? I couldn't live without you. You know I'd do anything in the.

[Steve Buckman]

World to make you happy.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Anything.

[Hank Lewis]

Just name it.

[Madeleine Buckman]

All right. General Harris had a conference yesterday with Sir Peter Heywood. No.

[Hank Lewis]

How did you know that?

[Madeleine Buckman]

It doesn't matter. I want the minutes of that meeting.

[Hank Lewis]

What?

[Madeleine Buckman]

I want to know to the last comma, everything that transpired.

[Hank Lewis]

If you're not the limit. For a second there you had me going. I thought you were serious.

[Madeleine Buckman]

I Am.

[Hank Lewis]

But that's classified material.

[Madeleine Buckman]

That's why I need it. I am a communist.

[Les Damon]

You're a what?

[Madeleine Buckman]

I have been a member of the underground apparatus here for nine years.

[Hank Lewis]

I don't believe it.

[Steve Buckman]

You couldn't be otherwise.

[Madeleine Buckman]

You never would have fallen in love with me.

[Hank Lewis]

I would have fallen in love with you no matter what you were. But I can't accept.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Don't be a fool.

[Hank Lewis]

What about Charles Brissot?

[Madeleine Buckman]

What about him?

[Hank Lewis]

Well, he introduced us. Did he know about your political affiliations?

[Madeleine Buckman]

He should, darling. He is the leader of our cell.

[Hank Lewis]

Oh, if I'm not the world's prize chump. I always wanted what you saw in me.

[Madeleine Buckman]

I take it then, you will not do as I ask.

[Hank Lewis]

No.

[Madeleine Buckman]

All right.

[Hank Lewis]

Stephen, where are you going?

[Madeleine Buckman]

Where do you think?

[Hank Lewis]

No, I won't let you. I don't care what you are.

[Steve Buckman]

I love you.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Prove it. Get me the report. No.

[Hank Lewis]

No, I can't do that.

[Madeleine Buckman]

I refuse to argue with you, Stephen. If you change your mind, you can reach me at the Hotel Savoy.

[Hank Lewis]

I won't change it. I don't care if. Madeleine, Come back here. Madeleine.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Well, I guess you overestimated your hand, Charles.

[Steve Buckman]

Did I?

[Madeleine Buckman]

You felt certain that Steve would do as I requested.

[Charles Brissot]

He will yet, darling. Give him time.

[Madeleine Buckman]

In almost a week.

[Charles Brissot]

I'm not at all worried. Another day or two and Stephen will come crawling.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Listen, Charles, if he doesn't, can I secure a divorce?

[Charles Brissot]

We will discuss that later.

[Madeleine Buckman]

That's what you always say when I've done everything you requested.

[Charles Brissot]

It was not my request, it was the party.

[Madeleine Buckman]

But I have a right to expect something.

[Charles Brissot]

Darling, I believe that's your turn.

[Madeleine Buckman]

I don't care.

[Les Damon]

Well, I do.

[Charles Brissot]

Be a good girl and answer it.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Hello? Hello, Madeleine. Yes.

[Hank Lewis]

How are you, Honey? You don't know how I've missed you. I've been going out of my mind.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Look, Stephen, we have been all through this. If you have nothing further to say.

[Hank Lewis]

Madeleine, I'll do it.

[Madeleine Buckman]

What?

[Hank Lewis]

If you want that report, I'll get it for you.

[Madeleine Buckman]

You will?

[Hank Lewis]

Yes. When can I see you?

[Madeleine Buckman]

When you secure the report.

[Hank Lewis]

I'll do it tonight. Can I just see you for a couple of minutes this afternoon? I thought I'd drop my.

[Madeleine Buckman]

No. There will be time for that later. Au revoir. Steven.

[Hank Lewis]

Madeline.

[Lieutenant Brian]

Steven.

[Madeleine Buckman]

You know, it was.

[Charles Brissot]

Forgive me if I say I told you so.

[Madeleine Buckman]

You know everything, don't you, Charles?

[Les Damon]

Not quite, darling.

[Charles Brissot]

But what I don't know, Stephen's report will supply. Suppose we drink to the success of his venture.

[Hank Lewis]

41 left 13, right. 69.

[Steve Buckman]

What the.

[Les Damon]

Thought we might as well have a little light on the subject.

[Hank Lewis]

What are you doing here?

[Les Damon]

Well, isn't this the Trailways bus depot?

[Hank Lewis]

That's not funny.

[Les Damon]

No, but it's the best I could think up of on the spur of the moment. What's your excuse?

[Hank Lewis]

I don't think I have to answer to you.

[Les Damon]

I think you do. My name is Mike Waring.

[Hank Lewis]

Mike Waring?

[Les Damon]

Yes. Maybe you better take a look at my credentials.

[Hank Lewis]

Oh, you're. You're with Army Intelligence.

[Les Damon]

Now that we have me identified, who are you?

[Hank Lewis]

Steve Buckman.

[Les Damon]

Buckman?

[Hank Lewis]

I'm the aide to the military attache.

[Les Damon]

Oh, yeah. What are you doing here at this hour?

[Hank Lewis]

Well, I wanted to finish up some.

[Les Damon]

Work I had left over. You always work like this, huh? At the safe with a flashlight.

[Hank Lewis]

Well, I, I, I know it seems funny.

[Les Damon]

Funny is hardly the word. Are you a communist?

[Hank Lewis]

Are you crazy?

[Les Damon]

I asked you first. There's been a leak out of this office for almost a year.

[Hank Lewis]

Well, I, I, I don't know anything about it.

[Les Damon]

What's in that safe?

[Hank Lewis]

I have no idea.

[Les Damon]

And why were you so anxious to get in there?

[Hank Lewis]

You don't understand.

[Les Damon]

No, I don't. Would you like to try briefing me?

[Hank Lewis]

I swear I've never done anything like this before. If it wasn't for Charles Brisseau.

[Les Damon]

Whoa, wait a minute. Who's Charles Brisseau? He your contact?

[Hank Lewis]

No.

[Les Damon]

Then who was what? Who do you pass on your information to?

[Hank Lewis]

I don't pass it on to anyone.

[Les Damon]

You were after the minutes of the meeting between General Harris and the British.

[Hank Lewis]

How did you know that?

[Les Damon]

We cooked it up just to flush you out. We figured the comrades would go for the report.

[Hank Lewis]

I told you, I'm not a Communist.

[Les Damon]

Then why did you do it?

[Hank Lewis]

They, they, they offered me money.

[Les Damon]

Who's this they you keep referring to, huh? You claim it isn't this Charles Brissot.

[Hank Lewis]

Well, I, I was lying.

[Les Damon]

You got your tenses mixed. You still are. Listen, we're in only if you start telling the truth. Now, who are you protecting?

[Hank Lewis]

No, I, no one. I swear.

[Les Damon]

You married?

[Steve Buckman]

Yes.

[Hank Lewis]

But Madeleine knows nothing about this. I give you my word.

[Les Damon]

You better come along with me. What for? Because something smells around here and I think it's your story. No. Come on, Steve. Let's not make this any tougher than we have to.

[Hank Lewis]

Stay away from me.

[Les Damon]

Now don't be a fool, fella. Put away the gun.

[Hank Lewis]

I said stay away. Sir, help me. I'll use it if I have to.

[Les Damon]

No, you won't.

[Hank Lewis]

I'm warning you, Waring. I've got everything to gain and nothing to lose. You're the only one who knows about this.

[Les Damon]

I'll tell you what I'll do. Steve.

[Steve Buckman]

Get back.

[Les Damon]

Well, I just wanted to show you.

[Hank Lewis]

I said get back. I warned you. I told you I'd shoot.

[Les Damon]

Wearing.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Wearing.

[Eugene Wang]

Some drivers like to travel at night because the highways are less crowded than in the daytime.

[Steve Buckman]

Do you?

[Eugene Wang]

If so, you're courting danger and should be extra careful. Although far fewer cars travel on the roads at night, the death rate per vehicle is four times greater at night than in the daytime. You may have the vision of an owl after dark, but your number may be up if you drive too fast or become involved in an accident with one of those drivers with extremely bad night vision. Avoid driving at night whenever possible. And at all times, drive as though your own life depends on it.

[Steve Buckman]

It does.

[Eugene Wang]

Now, back to the adventures of the Falcon.

[Les Damon]

Well, like the man says, you. You pays your money and you take your choice. Either it was the luck of the Irish that saved me or Steve Buckman didn't have his mind on his work. At any rate, that slug only creased my skull. The next thing I knew, I was on my hands and knees. And when I swiveled my head around, I found myself looking at two flat feet neatly encased in black leather boots. When I raised my sights a little higher, I saw the blue pants and blue coat that completed the outfit. Yep, it was a gendarme. And like all Frenchmen, he was real polite.

[Steve Buckman]

May I assist you, monsieur?

[Les Damon]

Yes, you may indeed.

[Steve Buckman]

Permit me. Shall we try for the sofa?

[Les Damon]

Why not? Oh, nothing like living dangerously.

[Steve Buckman]

Well, I think you will be comfortable here.

[Charles Brissot]

Thanks.

[Steve Buckman]

I think we had better call a doctor.

[Les Damon]

No, I think we had better not. But your head, it's still on, isn't it? May I inquire your name as Michael Waring. I'm attached to American intelligence. You'll find my credentials in my side pocket.

[Steve Buckman]

This one?

[Les Damon]

Yep. While you're at it, Lieutenant, would you hand me a cigarette?

[Steve Buckman]

Gladly.

[Charles Brissot]

Merci.

[Les Damon]

Tell me, how did you know I was here?

[Steve Buckman]

He passed by, heard the shot. He was good enough to inform us. You will not think me forward if I inquire exactly what transpired here?

[Les Damon]

Oh, nothing worth talking about.

[Steve Buckman]

Monsieur is too modest. Would you happen to know the name of your assailant? From the course of the bullet, one might think you were gazing directly at him.

[Les Damon]

Look, Lieutenant, I don't want to be obnoxious, but this doesn't concern you.

[Steve Buckman]

I Am delighted to have your assurance.

[Les Damon]

Did you ever hear of a Charles Brisson?

[Steve Buckman]

Was the Charles Brisso the one who attacked you?

[Les Damon]

No.

[Steve Buckman]

Then why are you so interested in him?

[Les Damon]

Just curious. As you communist.

[Steve Buckman]

What makes you ask that?

[Les Damon]

Just a hunch.

[Steve Buckman]

I may be permitted my doubts. If, as you say, Charles Brissot was not the one who attacked you, then I must press you for the name of the man who was.

[Les Damon]

No, I'm sorry, Lieutenant, I can't tell you.

[Steve Buckman]

You mean you will not.

[Les Damon]

But your way.

[Steve Buckman]

I must remind you, monsieur, I represent the authority of France.

[Les Damon]

Yes, but we're in the United States.

[Steve Buckman]

Pardon?

[Les Damon]

Well, our embassy here is considered American soil.

[Steve Buckman]

A mere technicality.

[Les Damon]

Nevertheless, I'm going to have to stand on it.

[Steve Buckman]

I think you will regret that decision. I would not. Say goodbye, my friend. I have a feeling we will meet again.

[Les Damon]

Au revoir, monsieur.

[Major Harris]

Intelligence, Major Harris speaking.

[Les Damon]

Hello, Dixie. Mike Waring.

[Major Harris]

Where the devil you been hiding yourself?

[Les Damon]

Oh, I've been having a ball.

[Major Harris]

You find out anything at the embassy?

[Les Damon]

Enough. Look, I want a complete dossier on Steve Buckman.

[Major Harris]

Yeah, boy.

[Les Damon]

Yep, he took a shot at me.

[Major Harris]

Obviously he don't ain't too good.

[Les Damon]

Well, I'll see you get some more practice. I want to know everything about Buckman and his wife and I mean everything. What he eats for breakfast, what kind of a car he drives.

[Major Harris]

I can tell you that it's a nice same as you.

[Les Damon]

Well, that ain't enough. I want to know the model and the color. How often he changes his Mobil oil.

[Major Harris]

In short, you want the work.

[Les Damon]

That's right. How soon can you have it for me?

[Major Harris]

Give me a couple hours.

[Les Damon]

I'll give you one. Or.

[Major Harris]

Be reasonable, Mike.

[Les Damon]

I can't. With all the airlines out of Paris, our pigeon can fly too far away. Let me hear from you real soon.

[Hank Lewis]

Madeline. Madeline, it's Stephen. Open up.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Just a moment. Did you get it?

[Hank Lewis]

Lock the door.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Where's the report?

[Charles Brissot]

I didn't get it.

[Madeleine Buckman]

I told you not to come unless you.

[Hank Lewis]

I don't understand. I killed a man.

[Madeleine Buckman]

What?

[Hank Lewis]

He was an intelligence officer named Mike Waring. He caught me at the safe.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Well, you cannot stay here.

[Hank Lewis]

I don't intend to. I'm gonna give myself up.

[Madeleine Buckman]

You are going to.

[Hank Lewis]

I just wanted to say goodbye and tell you I love you more than anything else in the world.

[Madeleine Buckman]

But you have no hesitation about involving me.

[Hank Lewis]

Oh, you don't think I'd do that?

[Madeleine Buckman]

How can you keep me out?

[Hank Lewis]

I'll manage somehow.

[Madeleine Buckman]

And what about Charles?

[Hank Lewis]

Leave Mr. Brisso to me.

[Madeleine Buckman]

But we are equally involved.

[Hank Lewis]

Just le. Leave that to me. Be good to yourself, honey.

[Madeleine Buckman]

No, no, no, wait. Stephen, you must not give yourself up. How do you know you killed this Michael Waring?

[Hank Lewis]

Madeleine, he was lying on the floor.

[Madeleine Buckman]

That means nothing. And did you feel his pulse?

[Hank Lewis]

No.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Well, there you are. For all you know, he may still be alive. I want you to stay here until I find out.

[Hank Lewis]

You're not going over to see Charles?

[Madeleine Buckman]

Of course not. You can depend on me. Just be patient, darling. I shall return as quickly as I can. Hello, waiter. I am looking for Monsieur Charles Brissell. I know he's generally. Oh, never mind. I see him. Charles.

[Les Damon]

Merrily.

[Charles Brissot]

What a pleasant surprise. Do sit down.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Merci.

[Charles Brissot]

This was not very clever of you, darling.

[Madeleine Buckman]

I could not help myself.

[Charles Brissot]

Stephen get the report?

[Madeleine Buckman]

No. He was apprehended at the safe.

[Charles Brissot]

How do you know?

[Madeleine Buckman]

He is in my hotel room now. He killed an American intelligence officer named Michael Weary.

[Charles Brissot]

Second collard would have been in the papers.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Perhaps they have a reason for suppressing it.

[Charles Brissot]

Did Stephen leave anything behind that might incriminate him?

[Madeleine Buckman]

I have no idea.

[Charles Brissot]

We'll find out.

[Madeleine Buckman]

But it does not make any difference. He intends to give himself up.

[Charles Brissot]

He's insane.

[Madeleine Buckman]

I've tried to argue him out of it, but he insists.

[Hank Lewis]

The fool.

[Charles Brissot]

Doesn't he care about involving you?

[Madeleine Buckman]

He claims he can protect me.

[Charles Brissot]

What about me?

[Madeleine Buckman]

He's not quite so gallant.

[Charles Brissot]

He must be stopped. Madeleine. I shall have to call her. Schnabel in East Berlin.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Charles, you would not do that.

[Charles Brissot]

You must not be blinded by bourgeois immorality, darling. Your husband represents a threat to our security. Naturally, this situation cannot be tolerated.

[Madeleine Buckman]

But Schnabel will send someone to kill him.

[Charles Brissot]

I prefer the word liquidated.

[Madeleine Buckman]

You cannot do this, Charles. Stephen's only crime was to fall in love with me.

[Charles Brissot]

Are you permitting sentiment to interfere with duty?

[Madeleine Buckman]

You never do, do you?

[Steve Buckman]

Never.

[Charles Brissot]

I don't want you to go back to the hotel. I want you to go directly to your apartment.

[Madeleine Buckman]

I will not do it.

[Charles Brissot]

Yes, you will. On your way, darling. I must make my telephone call.

[Les Damon]

Hello?

[Charles Brissot]

I would like very much to speak with Eric Schnabel, please.

[Steve Buckman]

Who is this?

[Charles Brissot]

Charles Brissot.

[Steve Buckman]

Oh, how are you, comrade?

[Charles Brissot]

Excellent.

[Steve Buckman]

Any new conquests?

[Les Damon]

Eh?

[Charles Brissot]

My dear Schnabel, my prowess with women has been greatly exaggerated.

[Steve Buckman]

Brissot, you sly one. How are things in Paris at the moment?

[Charles Brissot]

Not too well. You've had a little unpleasantness.

[Steve Buckman]

Something serious?

[Charles Brissot]

Nothing your department cannot take care of adequately.

[Steve Buckman]

How many men will you need?

[Charles Brissot]

One should be sufficient.

[Steve Buckman]

What are his instructions?

[Charles Brissot]

I prefer to give them to him personally. Will you be kind enough to have him report directly to me at my apartment? You have the address?

[Steve Buckman]

Not dearly. I will look over my files and send the best available man to you on the first flight to Paris.

[Charles Brissot]

Junker Shane. I know whoever you choose will be more than satisfactory. Auf Wiedersehen, comrade.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Just a moment.

[Les Damon]

I'm looking for Madeleine Buckman.

[Madeleine Buckman]

What can I do for you, monsieur?

[Les Damon]

My name is Mike Waring.

[Madeleine Buckman]

But I thought you.

[Steve Buckman]

Yes?

[Madeleine Buckman]

Oh, nothing. I had confused you with someone else.

[Steve Buckman]

Will.

[Les Damon]

May I come in?

[Madeleine Buckman]

For what purpose?

[Charles Brissot]

Suppose you take a look at this.

[Madeleine Buckman]

You are with American Intelligence?

[Les Damon]

That's right.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Then you will wish to see my.

[Les Damon]

Husband, and he isn't home.

[Madeleine Buckman]

How did you know that?

[Les Damon]

Well, haven't you heard? We don't miss a trick. Well. Nice place you've got here.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Yes, we find it agreeable. Sit down, please.

[Les Damon]

Thank you.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Forgive me for asking, but what happened to your head?

[Les Damon]

Oh, you mean this bandage? Oh, that's a very dull story. I was shot.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Shot?

[Les Damon]

Yeah. Lucky for me, my assailant was kind of jittery. I don't think he was cut out for that kind of work.

[Madeleine Buckman]

This happened in Paris?

[Les Damon]

Well, yes. No, actually, it was in Paris, but it was still the United States.

[Madeleine Buckman]

I don't understand.

[Les Damon]

It happened at the American Embassy.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Incredible.

[Les Damon]

Well, then you'll never believe the payoff. Guess who was the man behind the gun?

[Madeleine Buckman]

Who?

[Les Damon]

Your husband.

[Hank Lewis]

What?

[Les Damon]

You did that very well. Do you know Charles Brisso?

[Madeleine Buckman]

No.

[Les Damon]

You don't know what you're missing. He's the original Lanolin plus kid. A real smoothie.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Obviously, he's a friend of yours.

[Les Damon]

No, I've never had the pleasure. But you have, haven't you?

[Madeleine Buckman]

Are you suggesting.

[Les Damon]

Suggesting? You've known Charles Brisseau since 1946 when you joined an underground Communist cell here in Paris.

[Madeleine Buckman]

You are insane.

[Les Damon]

I'm further suggesting you and Briso put Steve up to stealing a report of a joint meeting between the British and the Americans.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Get out.

[Les Damon]

All right, angel that. If you hear from Comrade Briso, tell him I'm on my way over. I'd appreciate it if he could hang around for me. After that, he can hang around on his own. Just a moment.

[Charles Brissot]

Yes?

[Major Harris]

Hi, Charlie.

[Les Damon]

You busy?

[Charles Brissot]

Who are you?

[Major Harris]

I'm not fussy. I'll answer anything.

[Charles Brissot]

Oh, of course. You're one of Schnabel's boys.

[Les Damon]

Who?

[Charles Brissot]

Eric Schnabel.

[Major Harris]

Never heard of the man.

[Charles Brissot]

I admire your discretion, comrade. Come in.

[Major Harris]

Thanks.

[Charles Brissot]

I did not Expect an American.

[Major Harris]

Well, it takes all kinds to make a world.

[Charles Brissot]

How to care for a drink?

[Major Harris]

No, I never touch a stuff.

[Charles Brissot]

Perhaps a cigarette then.

[Major Harris]

Now you've got yourself a customer.

[Charles Brissot]

Yeah. Try one of these. I have them specially blended.

[Major Harris]

No kidding. It's not bad. Not bad at all.

[Charles Brissot]

I assume you would prefer to conclude this transaction immediately.

[Les Damon]

You in a hurry?

[Charles Brissot]

Unfortunately, there's a man named Stephen Buckman in sweet foret of the Savoy. I should like you to pick him up.

[Major Harris]

Steve Buckman, eh?

[Charles Brissot]

Yes, but I do not wish him killed there. In fact, I prefer that his death appear an accident.

[Les Damon]

Aha.

[Major Harris]

Well, how would you handle it?

[Charles Brissot]

Well, you are the expert.

[Major Harris]

Oh, no, that's okay. I don't mind listening to amateurs. Every once in a while you pick up a pretty good idea.

[Charles Brissot]

Well, if you could arrange for it to look as though he jumped off one of the bridges into the Seine.

[Major Harris]

Uh, that's too tricky. You never know who's gonna be watching.

[Charles Brissot]

Then perhaps an automobile accident. Suppose he was struck by a car.

[Major Harris]

Oh, you disappoint me, Charlie. You start getting fancy, you're gonna lounge yourself up but good. Personally, I like to keep it simple. You know what I mean?

[Steve Buckman]

No.

[Major Harris]

Well, let me demonstrate. Now, make believe you're my pigeon.

[Charles Brissot]

What are you doing with that gun?

[Major Harris]

You made a couple of mistakes, Charlie. First of all, my name is Hank Lewis, and your French novel didn't send me around.

[Les Damon]

What?

[Major Harris]

And your ideas how a torpedo should operate are ridiculous.

[Les Damon]

Put away that gun.

[Major Harris]

I just want to prove my point.

[Les Damon]

Are you going out?

[Major Harris]

You see what I mean? Why go to all the trouble when a couple of these will take care of everything? Like I always say, you gotta keep it simple.

[Eugene Wang]

If you're an average American on a Saturday or Sunday, you enjoy your car, you take a short drive or a long trip. And if you use your automobile a lot on weekends, you have a good idea how many millions of cars pour out onto the highways on Saturdays and Sundays. That's one reason why the traffic death toll is so high. And why the utmost caution is needed in weekend driving more than at any other time. So on weekends particularly, remember to drive as though your life depends on it. It does. And now back to the Adventures of the Falcon.

[Les Damon]

Well, that's life for you. And it took Hank Lewis exactly three and a half seconds to end it for Charles Brisseau. But the first I knew of it was an hour later when I walked into Brisso's apartment and found him lying on the floor. I had a sneaking suspicion something was wrong. But obviously, Brisso wasn't going to tell me what. So I did the next best thing. I started going through his desk. I don't know what I expected to run across, but when I hit the fifth drawer, I found everything I was looking for, including building trouble.

[Steve Buckman]

Perhaps I can assist you.

[Les Damon]

Oh, no, Monsieur.

[Steve Buckman]

Wearing, I presume.

[Les Damon]

Well, it ain't Doc Livingston you're pleased to jest. Look, Lieutenant, I know what you're thinking.

[Steve Buckman]

You believe I am by nature suspicious.

[Les Damon]

But no.

[Steve Buckman]

Scarcely seven hours ago, I found you shot. You would not identify your assailant.

[Les Damon]

Well, it wasn't Charles Brisso.

[Steve Buckman]

You evinced an interest in him.

[Les Damon]

Yeah, but I can't explain why.

[Steve Buckman]

Correct me if I'm wrong, monsieur, but this apartment is on the Rue de la Paix.

[Les Damon]

What's that got to do.

[Steve Buckman]

Bear with me, please. The Rue de la Paix is undeniably French soil. Yeah, and in France, murder comes under the jurisdiction of the Prefecture.

[Les Damon]

Well, I didn't kill him.

[Steve Buckman]

Then who did?

[Les Damon]

I don't know. I just got here a few minutes ago myself.

[Steve Buckman]

I have only your word for that.

[Les Damon]

Well, if you don't believe it, you can search me for the gun.

[Steve Buckman]

My congratulations. How in the name of heaven were you able to dispose of it?

[Les Damon]

Oh, how many times do I have to tell? Look, how long would you say he was dead?

[Steve Buckman]

Judging by rigor mortis, approximately an hour.

[Les Damon]

That would make it 8:30. All right. I've got an alibi for the time.

[Steve Buckman]

I would be most interested in hearing it.

[Les Damon]

Okay, Come along and you'll get your wish.

[Steve Buckman]

And what of M. Brisso?

[Les Damon]

Well, you might ask if you care to join us, but frankly, I think you'll be wasting your time. All right, Lieutenant, let's go.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Yes?

[Les Damon]

Hello, Madeleine.

[Madeleine Buckman]

I warned you before, monsieur.

[Les Damon]

You be careful with those threats, Angel. This gentleman is Lieutenant Brian of the Prefecture.

[Madeleine Buckman]

If you wish to see my husband.

[Les Damon]

No, no. We wish to see you.

[Madeleine Buckman]

What is the meaning of this?

[Les Damon]

You better brace yourself for a shock. We just came from Charles Brissot's apartment. He was murdered.

[Madeleine Buckman]

No.

[Les Damon]

Here, you better sit down.

[Madeleine Buckman]

Let me go. Who did it? Who did it?

[Steve Buckman]

Well, I had accorded Monsieur Waring the honor, but naturally he declined.

[Les Damon]

Naturally. And we both know why, don't we, Madeleine?

[Madeleine Buckman]

Do we?

[Les Damon]

Where were you at the time?

[Madeleine Buckman]

Are you insane? I was right here with you, remember? We were talking about Stephen.

[Les Damon]

What do you say to that, Lieutenant?

[Steve Buckman]

Apparently, I owe you an apology.

[Madeleine Buckman]

I do not understand.

[Steve Buckman]

You have just substantiated Monsieur Waring's alibi.

[Les Damon]

Not that I needed it. 5 will get you 10 brissot was killed by professional gunmen.

[Steve Buckman]

What makes you say that?

[Les Damon]

There were no powder burns on the body, which means the killer wasn't standing too close. Yet. Those two holes he drilled in Brissot could have been covered by a 25 franc piece.

[Steve Buckman]

Then the problem arises. Who hired this man.

[Les Damon]

Yeah. Where's your husband, Madeleine?

[Madeleine Buckman]

I will not tell you.

[Les Damon]

You'll have to eventually.

[Steve Buckman]

You believe it was Buckman who hired the assassin?

[Les Damon]

Oh, no, no. That was Madeleine's work.

[Madeleine Buckman]

What are you talking about, Charles?

[Les Damon]

Murder was supposed to come as a great big shock to you, yet you were all set with an alibi when no one mentioned the time he died. Oh, I guess your boy reported back to you.

[Madeleine Buckman]

I could kill you for this.

[Les Damon]

Yes, I wouldn't be at all surprised. And since I'm leaving for home tonight, I better not take chances. All right, Lieutenant. She's all yours.

[Steve Buckman]

I must confess wearing. I really hate to see you go.

[Les Damon]

I can't imagine why, Lieutenant.

[Steve Buckman]

For the most obvious reason. When I report to my superior in the morning, I would like to know a little more about this case.

[Les Damon]

Well, you picked up that pro gunman, Hank Lewis, Most assuredly. Well, he should have been able to fill in all the gory details.

[Steve Buckman]

Yes, but what he cannot tell us was Madeleine Buckman's motive. I thought she was in love with Brisso.

[Les Damon]

Well, sure. But she finally stopped eluding herself. That she meant anything to him is the old, old story of the woman scorned.

[Steve Buckman]

It seems such a pity he was so successful with the weaker sex.

[Les Damon]

Well, I guess it just proves one thing. When you're a ladies man, as Brissot was, you've got to expect someday to run across a lady killer. Revoir, Lieutenant. Ladies and gentlemen, with this broadcast, we conclude the present series of the Adventures of the Falcon. But we'll be back with you real soon. How soon depends a great deal on you. If you want us, all you've got to do is lift a pen and the Falcon will be flying your way again. Till then, this is Les Damon thanking you on behalf of our writer, Eugene Wang, our director, Richard Lewis, and our producer, Bernard Schubert, for all your wonderful letters and suggestions in the past. And till we meet again, good luck.

[Eugene Wang]

This program came to you transcribed from New York.

[Adam Graham]

Welcome back. And thus ends Les Damon's run on the Falcon. Off and on from January 1950 until September 1952. And it ends with the Falcon going home. So not necessarily staying with Intelligence, but leaving the door open it was a good run in a period of time, but even better for overall quality despite a few rough patches. I had some issues with the episodes in the middle, but it started strong and it ended strong. And it was nice that Les Damon was given an opportunity to have a bit of a curtain call at the end of this run. The Falcon would return, but not with Mr. Damon. Damon was signed by ABC to play Inspector Mark Sabre of the Homicide Squad on ABC Mystery Theater, replacing Robert Carroll in that role, and he would continue there for two full seasons. The Falcon would return in January 1953 over a network Mutual with another star in the lead role. Now, if you are curious about Les Damon in ABC Mystery Theater, the very first episode and only the very first episode of his run on that series, the Case of the Telltale Tie is available. You can find it on the Forgotten Detectives of Old Time Radio. It's you can also find it by searching our website for the Case of the Telltale Tie. As to this episode, I have to admit that having Ralph Bell take on the role of Dixie seems like an odd choice. I can only speculate that the episode was written with Dixie in the script and they had the actor who played him ready to play that role again, but he wasn't available at the last minute. Again, while it's odd to hear Ralph Bell trying to do a southern accent, he did a good job, as he always does. The scene where the killing happened was great and it was very well set up. And it just came at me as a surprise given that the victim had ordered a hitman. So if you ordered a hitman to kill somebody else and a hitman shows up, that's kind of what you expect to happen. And, and again, great twist. Bell was perfect as the gunman who toyed with his victim before doing him in. I will say that it does turn out that the victim actually had the best idea. Killing him in the apartment allowed the police and the Falcon to find the body quickly, which allowed them to wrap it up and catch the killer. So you can be very menacing and very engaging in making your argument, I guess, but also end up being very wrong. The one thing that I thought was odd and maybe a bit off about this episode was the French policeman getting into the embassy, because essentially that means that except for the Falcon and his assailant, no one was in the embassy, which I'm pretty sure is not how embassies work. There'd be guards, not to mention the people who actually live there. But we needed the policemen to find the Falcon knocked out for the Falcon formula to work, which is required to work even overseas and in the Intelligence Bureau. Now it's time to thank our Patreon supporter of the day. And I want to thank Rebecca, patreon supporter since April 2021, currently supporting the podcast at the shamus level of $4 or more per month. Thank you so much for your support, Rebecca. 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 pod wherever you download it from. We'll be back next Monday with another episode of the Falcon, but with a different lead. But join us back here tomorrow for Charlie chan where Jerry Mr. Holt, Ms. Beaton.

[Lieutenant Brian]

The solution of the murder of Madame Mandini is within touch of our fingertips.

[Les Damon]

What?

[Lieutenant Brian]

What was that you said? I'm serious, Sheriff. Man labors for days for success and in the end, success is thrown the most unexpected sauce into his hand. Mr. Ken, I ain't never seen you excited before. Must be important. Sit down and speak and listen carefully as Sheriff reads from last chapter of Landini book.

[Adam Graham]

I hope you'll be with us then. In the meantime, send your comments to box13atives.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.