The Saint: A Real Gone Guy (EP4981)

Summary

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The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio

The Saint: "A Real Gone Guy" (EP4981)

Date: May 25, 2026
Original Air Date: July 2, 1950
Host: Adam Graham
Star: Vincent Price as Simon Templar, "The Saint"

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Episode Overview

In this suspenseful installment of The Saint, Simon Templar is drawn into the swinging, competitive world of a big band when its infamous leader, Terry Richards—known as the “Real Gone Guy”—is found strangled backstage. Called in by singer Shirley Gray, Simon navigates infighting among the musicians, jealousy, ambition, and secret romance to unravel a clever murder. The episode is a classic whodunit set to a jazzy backdrop and features the charismatic wit of Vincent Price.
Main Theme: Jealousy, ambition, and betrayal in the jazz scene lead to murder.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

1. Setting the Scene

• [02:41] Breaking News Interruption - The show is preceded by a news bulletin on the Korean conflict, grounding the story in its era.
• [04:05] Introduction - Listeners are reminded Simon Templar (Vincent Price) is the "Robin Hood of modern crime," based on Leslie Charteris' stories.

2. The Call for Help

• [04:12] Shirley Gray, a singer, calls Templar seemingly in distress, abruptly hangs up when interrupted by Sammy, a band member.
• [05:36] Templar reaches out to Lieutenant Schwartz for background, learning bandleader Terry Richards ("the Real Gone Guy") has just been strangled with a guitar string.

Lieutenant Schwartz: "You ever hear of a band leader named Terry Richards?... He's real gone all right. So gone. He's dead. He was strangled." (06:04)

3. Backstage Intrigue

• [07:05] Templar bribes his way backstage, encountering Dick Carvin (the doorman/drummer) and getting directions to Shirley's dressing room.
• [08:45] Shirley confides in Simon, worried that the police will accuse the wrong person—possibly Sammy—or that the murderer will strike again.
• [09:57] Sammy interrupts; it's clear there is tension between him and Shirley. He is defensive, anxious about keeping the band together for a lucrative concert tour.

4. Suspicions and Motives

• [10:46] Sammy stands to benefit if the band survives, as the agency would give him leadership.
• [11:26] Dick Carvin, revealed as the drummer, expresses concern mostly for Shirley and gives insight into the band's dynamics—resentment at how Terry overshadowed everyone, especially in arrangements.

Dick Carvin: "All I do is beat these lousy drums." (12:37)

5. Escalating Danger

• [13:56] Shirley is attacked and nearly killed by the same method as Terry (strangulation with a guitar string), but survives after fainting. Evidence is found: a guitar E string wrapped around Sammy's baton.
• [15:10] Templar catches Shirley withholding evidence, warning her of further danger.

6. The List of Suspects

• [16:27] Templar questions Dick (doorman/drummer) about anyone coming or going, but no outsiders were seen. The suspicion shifts to someone inside the band.
• [17:30] Templar muses over who could be stealthy enough for such crimes, with Dick joking that “even I could do that, I wear sneakers.”

7. Confrontations & Red Herrings

• [18:30] Templar and Sammy argue; Shirley reveals she feared police would blame Sammy (her secret husband).
• [19:49] Templar questions Shirley's career choices and loyalty to the band, hinting at personal mysteries.

8. Clues & Techniques

• [22:24] Templar inspects Dick’s drum paraphernalia and is shown how claves (wooden sticks for rhythm) are used for Latin music—hinting at their suitability for tying a wire.
• [23:12] Templar grills Sammy over his wartime paratrooper experience, notably killing with hands or wire—a tactless line of inquiry (Host Adam Graham later critiques this approach).

9. The Trap is Set

• [24:27] An E string is found wound around Shirley’s dress hanger—a warning—prompting Templar to realize the killer is close and bold.
• [25:29] Templar orchestrates a rehearsal of the song “Temptation,” ensuring all are present and setting up his solution.

10. The Solution/Reveal

• [26:35] During “Temptation,” Templar brings out a guitar to provoke the killer. Amid chaos, Dick Carvin confesses by his actions (becoming unhinged), confirming he is the murderer.
  • Dick envied Terry and wanted his own band; he used claves tied to guitar strings to strangle both Terry and (attempt) Sammy.
• [27:32] Aftermath: Shirley asks, "Why did he try to kill me?" Templar explains she unknowingly threatened the killer by finding evidence.

Simon Templar: “He tied the ends of the guitar strings to the claves he used for Latin American rhythms. Then he approached his victims from the rear, looped the wire over their heads, and curtains.” (28:54)

11. Romantic & Comic Closing

• [29:48] Simon proposes dinner at his place, hinting flirtatiously about "seeing his Picassos," only to be interrupted by the revelation that Shirley and Sammy are secretly married (the true reason for her concern).
• [30:24] Sammy, jealous, confronts Templar, offering a touch of humor to the episode’s close.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Lieutenant Schwartz:
  "I got maniacs confessing to murders that never happened. I got murderers caught in the act who say who, me? And now... now I got Templar!" (05:21)
• Dick Carvin on drum fate:
  "All I do is beat these lousy drums." (Repeated motif—12:37, 27:16)
• Simon Templar’s wit:
  "My analyst tells me... never mind my analyst. I hate him." (20:00)
• Shirley Gray:
  “Why did he try to kill me, Simon?”
  Simon: “Just remain as you are.” (27:32)
• Revelation of Shirley’s marriage:
  Sammy: “What are you doing with my wife, Templar?” (30:02)
  Simon: “Your... my wife?”
  Shirley: “That’s what I’ve been trying to tell you. ... Sammy and I have been secretly married for six months.” (30:05-30:14)

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Key Timestamps for Reference

• [04:05] Episode starts—Simon’s first phone call
• [06:04] Templar learns of the murder
• [08:45] Interview with Shirley Gray
• [10:07] Sammy’s angry entrance
• [12:37] Dick Carvin gives band history and motive
• [13:56] Second attack—Shirley nearly strangled
• [16:27] Templar interrogates the suspicious doorman
• [22:33] Discovery of claves as possible strangulation tool
• [25:29] “Temptation” rehearsal—trap for the killer
• [26:35] Dick’s breakdown/reveal
• [29:48] Simon’s playful dinner invitation/romance
• [30:05] Shirley reveals secret marriage
• [31:13] Cast credits, closing

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Host Adam Graham’s Commentary (Post-Episode)

• [32:23] Commented on the show’s musical setting and Simon’s mistaken advances due to Shirley’s secret marriage.
• [33:10] Noted the tactlessness of Simon questioning Sammy’s wartime killing experience, mentioning how returning veterans often disliked discussing their past.
• [34:34] Discussed the song “Temptation”—its era popularity and multiple versions.
• [35:25] Listener feedback was read, with emphasis on Vincent Price’s enduring cultural significance.
• [36:47] Patreon support acknowledged.

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Episode Takeaways

• Golden Age radio mystery blends big band drama with clever deduction.
• Focus on band politics: ambition, jealousy, suppressed talent.
• Intricate method of murder (claves tied to guitar strings), fitting the musical motif.
• Vincent Price brings charisma, humor, and a touch of romance to his detective role.

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For Listeners: Why Tune In?

Even if you missed the episode, you’ll catch an authentic flavor of 1950s intrigue and wit, interwoven with jazz-era tension, showbiz secrets, and classic detective storytelling. The interplay between tightly wound ambition and personal relationships makes for a rich backdrop—as does the unmistakable performance of Vincent Price as Simon Templar.

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Transcript

[Adam Graham]

What's up y'?

[Simon Templar]

All?

[Adam Graham]

Summer's got a different tempo. Everything's a little looser, brighter. One plan turns into another. You hear something, you stay a little longer. Next thing you know, you're somewhere you didn't plan to be. It's those in between moments. That's where the ideas hit. Conversations stretch out. Little memories sneak up on you. Sometimes it's just about what's in your hand. That color, that chill. The new Tropical Butterfly Refresher from Starbucks. Guava and passion fruit flavors with mango pineapple flavored pearls. Yeah, that feels like summer before you even taste it. Funny how one small stop becomes the best part of the day. Start your summer rhythm with Starbucks. Try the new Tropical Butterfly Refresher from Starbucks

[Simon Templar]

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[Sammy]

Visit your nearby Lowe's.

[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 Saint. But first, 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 and become one of our ongoing Patreon supporters for as little as $2 per month. Just go to patreon.greatdetectives.net but now from July 2, 1950, here is a real gone guy.

[Sammy]

We delayed the start of this program to bring you a special news bulletin from the NBC newsroom in New York. Two fresh columns of North Korean troops have crossed the Han river and are moving southward below Seoul. Two other invader columns have outflanked the town and airstrip of Suwon on the east. And a spokesman at a U.S. advanced headquarters in Korea says the defense situation has definitely worsened in the past 24 hours hours. Keep tuned to your NBC station for the later news. The Adventures of the Saints starring Vincent Price. The Saints based on characters created by Leslie Charteris and known to millions from books, magazines and motion pictures. The Robin Hood of modern crime now comes to radio starring Hollywood's brilliant and talented actor, Vincent Price as the Saint.

[Simon Templar]

Oh. Hello, Templars Mortuary.

[Shirley Gray]

Mr. Simon Templer.

[Simon Templar]

Unfortunately, Littleton is calling. What time is it?

[Shirley Gray]

At the sound of the. I'm sorry, I'm not allowed to give that information. Littleton is calling.

[Simon Templar]

All right, put him on.

[Shirley Gray]

One moment. Prayers.

[Sammy]

Hello?

[Simon Templar]

Hello, Is.

[Shirley Gray]

Is this Simon Templer?

[Simon Templar]

Yes, it is.

[Shirley Gray]

Well, my. My name is Shirley Gray. Please, I need your.

[Simon Templar]

Yes, go on. Hello?

[Sammy]

Sammy, who are you talking to?

[Shirley Gray]

Oh, well, I. I was just calling you at the theater.

[Sammy]

You knew I was with the cops. Hang it up.

[Shirley Gray]

All right. Hello? I'm sorry I bothered you. Sammy just got back.

[Simon Templar]

Hello? Hello?

[Shirley Gray]

Your party has hung up, sir.

[Simon Templar]

So they have. Thank you. Shirley Gray. Shirley Gray. Oh, of course.

[Sammy]

I miss eye. Lieutenant Schwartz.

[Simon Templar]

Guess who? Oh, no.

[Sammy]

Templar.

[Simon Templar]

No, no, no, no, no. You hate me, don't you?

[Sammy]

Templar, this is a homicide bureau. I am up to the cleft of my rugged chin and work. I got maniacs confessing to murders that never happened. I got murderers caught in the act.

[Dick Carvin]

Who.

[Sammy]

Say who?

[Shirley Gray]

Me.

[Sammy]

And now. Now I got. I got.

[Simon Templar]

Templar. Yes, Lieutenant.

[Sammy]

Templar. You got something to say, say it.

[Simon Templar]

Anyone for badminton?

[Sammy]

Templar, I.

[Simon Templar]

Okay, Lieutenant. I just want some information.

[Sammy]

Read the newspapers, Templar. They whip up the crime waves. I don't.

[Simon Templar]

Well, then what do journalism's juvenile delinquents have to say about events in the city of Littleton today?

[Sammy]

You don't know?

[Simon Templar]

I couldn't even guess.

[Sammy]

Well, stay happy. Go back to bed, Lieutenant.

[Simon Templar]

I'll write a letter to the Times.

[Sammy]

Okay, Templar, have it your way. You ever hear of a band leader named Terry Richards?

[Simon Templar]

Of course. You mean the one they call the Real Gone guy?

[Sammy]

I hope to hold your half note, Templar. He's real gone all right. So gone. He's dead. He was strangled.

[Simon Templar]

Oh. Well, thank you, Lieutenant, for your first exclusive.

[Sammy]

Look, if you're a figuring to Buddy and Templar, I wouldn't.

[Simon Templar]

Now, you know me. You remember Lieutenant Ruggles, Old meathead?

[Sammy]

Old meathead? Well, he's now chief of police at Littleton. You'd better stay out of his way.

[Simon Templar]

I wouldn't dream of getting in his way. Or would I?

[Sammy]

I'm not kidding, Templar. Terry Richards was a real big name. Ruggles wants this one for himself. You get in his way, he'll have you so deep in the pokey, they'll be feeding you with a pea shooter. Hey, on second thought, Is that bad?

[Simon Templar]

Lieutenant?

[Sammy]

Yes, Stampler.

[Simon Templar]

Did someone spike your bubble gum this morning?

[Sammy]

Yes, I can.

[Simon Templar]

Goodbye, pal. Don't sneeze into the breeze. Hey, sir, I'd like to go backstage, please. Mr. Doorman.

[Dick Carvin]

Well, it's possible to get there if your cultural development is at a certain level.

[Simon Templar]

Well, I'm fond of Mondrian.

[Dick Carvin]

I collect Americana. I am fond of portraits of those men who have become our presidents. I am especially cheered by portraits of Lincoln, done, of course, on fine paper in black, bordered and shaded in hues and shades of green, which one finds so cool and comforting.

[Simon Templar]

Your taste is admirable. It happens that I.

[Dick Carvin]

Here you are, my perfect specimen. Pass, friend.

[Simon Templar]

Thank you so much.

[Dick Carvin]

Oh, Mr. Templar, you know me.

[Simon Templar]

You expected me.

[Dick Carvin]

Ms. Gray. Hope for you as she described you.

[Simon Templar]

Still, it cost me $5.

[Dick Carvin]

Nothing ventured, nothing gained. Ms. Gray is in her dressing room. First corridor to your right and first door to the left.

[Simon Templar]

Oh, thank you. I say, tell me something. Is this the same Shirley Gray who sings ballads so wonderfully?

[Dick Carvin]

The same, but she sings them no more. Merlo Rooney, El Rowdy.

[Simon Templar]

You swallowed something. A bop.

[Dick Carvin]

That's what the great Terry Richards played.

[Simon Templar]

Oh, I gather you were not a fan of the late Mr. Richards.

[Dick Carvin]

The man who knocked him off was a hero.

[Simon Templar]

I see.

[Dick Carvin]

Ms. Gray is the only nice person in the band. Take care of her, will you?

[Simon Templar]

You think she needs taking care of?

[Dick Carvin]

There's a killer running around, Mr. Templar. Of course, if he's just after another musician. That's all right.

[Simon Templar]

Petrilla's gonna hate you in the morning.

[Dick Carvin]

He wouldn't dare. First corridor to your right. First door to the left. Mr. Templar.

[Simon Templar]

Miss Gray.

[Shirley Gray]

Oh, you frightened me.

[Simon Templar]

You're Simon Templer. Secretary. Shirley Gray. Fan Club, cell three, group two. Currently underground at Foot Shores.

[Shirley Gray]

Oh, Mr. Templer, I'm so glad.

[Simon Templar]

Who is Sammy?

[Shirley Gray]

He's. What do you mean?

[Simon Templar]

Well, all the way down here, I've been asking myself, why would Shirley Gray call me? And after calling, why would she hang up just because a man named Sammy entered the room? You see, I'm just the old curious one.

[Shirley Gray]

Well, I want you to do one thing for me. Find out who killed Terry Richards.

[Simon Templar]

That's a job for the police, isn't it?

[Shirley Gray]

Well, they might get the wrong person.

[Simon Templar]

Sammy, for instance.

[Shirley Gray]

They might not find out in time. Somebody else might get killed.

[Simon Templar]

The doorman seems to have had the same thought. What brings it on?

[Shirley Gray]

No one knows why Terry was killed. Nobody liked him, but nobody hated him enough to kill him. This is almost the work of a maniac. There was no reason for it.

[Simon Templar]

You mean no one was ambitious, jealous, frustrated?

[Shirley Gray]

Oh, don't talk like that.

[Simon Templar]

You're hiding something from Simon.

[Shirley Gray]

Please don't joke. I found Terry's body. I called the police and they said he must have been strangled with a stout, thin cord.

[Simon Templar]

But, well.

[Shirley Gray]

Well, they're wrong about it and about everything else. He was strangled with a.

[Sammy]

What's this? Another cop?

[Shirley Gray]

Sammy, this is Simon Templer. The St. Simon.

[Sammy]

I told you to let it alone, Shirley. Get out, Templar.

[Simon Templar]

I'm happy to know you too, friendly one.

[Sammy]

Look, Templar, we're being held in this offbeat bergen. We can't get out. I'm spending all my time at the jail answering the silly questions of these cornball cops. And now you. I've got rehearsals to do. Now will you get out?

[Shirley Gray]

Oh, no, Sammy, no. Not rehearsals already. Why, Terry hasn't even been.

[Simon Templar]

Yes, Sammy. Why are you so anxious to get in rehearsal?

[Sammy]

We've got a contract for a concert tour. That's what we were doing in this Corn palace, warming up for the tour. The band's got to be in shape in a week or the contract is canceled. No contract, no tour, no tour, no ban, no band. We're in a panic. Do you see?

[Simon Templar]

No. Just where do you fit in here?

[Sammy]

I like money, I eat it.

[Simon Templar]

It's cheaper than food these days.

[Sammy]

Besides, if we make out, the agency is giving me the band. I got it coming just like Terry had. What happened coming to him?

[Shirley Gray]

Oh, Sammy.

[Sammy]

Well, Terry was a slob and you know it.

[Simon Templar]

You are a man of grace and charm, Sammy.

[Sammy]

Send him away, Shirley. Get him out of here.

[Simon Templar]

Gentle psychotic, isn't he? As we jazz lovers say, this routine is murder.

[Shirley Gray]

I'll talk to him. Will you wait for me, Simon?

[Simon Templar]

Need you ask.

[Sammy]

May I come in, Mr. Templer?

[Simon Templar]

Of course. Say, how did you know me?

[Sammy]

I talked Shirley into calling you. My name's Dick Carvin.

[Simon Templar]

You're with the band.

[Sammy]

All I do is beat these lousy drums.

[Simon Templar]

You ever hear that joke to the point of nausea? Who killed Terry Richards?

[Sammy]

I don't know. The cops thought Shirley might have because she found him. But it wasn't Shirley. I had her call you so you could prove it was someone else.

[Simon Templar]

What was she doing in his dressing room? Was it her habit to go there? The carveth, Dear boy, if you want me to help.

[Sammy]

Okay, okay. Lay out for four bars and I'll give you the score. I understood Terry Richards. I didn't like him any more than anybody else, but I did understand him. I've been with him since the year one. Sammy has too. Only he played a three Year job with the Army.

[Simon Templar]

Sammy called Terry a slob.

[Sammy]

Yeah. Before the war, Sammy and Terry started this band. Terry fronted it. Sammy arranged and conducted rehearsals. The man sent him greetings. And he went into the Paratroops and came back tough and hard. I thought he'd kill Terry when he found out Terry had cut in for 100% of the band. I remember his hands were just aching.

[Simon Templar]

Why did he come back with Terry?

[Sammy]

Terry was up here, Mac number one. He was willing to pay for Sammy's talent and pay good. That's the only way he could keep anybody, including Shirley. Poor kid. It wasn't enough she had to work for him. She had to go along with him a little way if she wanted her job. And she did.

[Simon Templar]

Why? Why? She used to be the biggest name on radio. Without Terry Richards, how did she ever become a band singer?

[Sammy]

Canaries are hard to figure. Maybe that's the question you've got to answer, miss.

[Simon Templar]

Terry Richards seems to have been a dismal kind of snail.

[Sammy]

I admired him, Mr. Templar, for one reason. He knew how to compete. Fight, cheat, steal, hit below the belt, but stay on top. He had one philosophy, and it fit this world great. Hooray for me and nuts to you. If I could have had that, I'd have done all right. I'd have been bigger than Terry Richards. But I haven't got it. I admired the man who had it.

[Simon Templar]

This has been an enchanting recital of the foibles of humanity. But who killed Terry Richards?

[Sammy]

I wish you'd find out.

[Simon Templar]

Why are you so anxious, dear?

[Sammy]

Because without Terry, this band can still go places. Oh, we needed him. Like the Metanese Common Lombardo. Now Sammy will be in charge, don't you see? And he'll give everybody a chance, even me.

[Simon Templar]

What do you mean?

[Sammy]

But Terry wouldn't give any of us a chance to shine. We always had to feature his guitar. What?

[Simon Templar]

We?

[Sammy]

We got a Real Gone arrangement of Temptation. Just Me on Timps and Shirley on Voice. Real Gone. Real gone. But Terry wouldn't even listen.

[Simon Templar]

If I've heard of progressive music as a sample, I'd say it hasn't gone quite far enough. It's still in the range of hearing on.

[Sammy]

I missed a template. But surely.

[Simon Templar]

Come on, let's go this way. The green room.

[Sammy]

Good heaven.

[Simon Templar]

Shirley. Out of the way. Call the cops.

[Adam Graham]

Hurry.

[Sammy]

Oh, Mr. Templer.

[Shirley Gray]

Oh, are you all right, Simon?

[Simon Templar]

Oh, yes, angel. I'll be all right. Hey, I thought you were dead.

[Sammy]

She just fainted. Templer.

[Simon Templar]

Did you call the police?

[Sammy]

Dick, between giving her Smelling salts and bathing your head? I haven't had much of a chance.

[Simon Templar]

What is they say in the who done?

[Sammy]

It's happened Somebody slugged you from behind? And pushed me through the door and slammed it.

[Simon Templar]

Oh, my neck. There must have been a rabbit punch.

[Shirley Gray]

Do you want a doctor?

[Simon Templar]

Simon, dear heart, I want an answer. By the way, what did happen to you?

[Shirley Gray]

Well, I argued with Sammy for a while and then I came over here and I picked up Sammy's baton. And this was wrapped around him.

[Simon Templar]

Wait till I stand up. Oh, that floor was so comfortable. What is this thing?

[Sammy]

It's an E string from a guitar.

[Shirley Gray]

It's what was used to kill Terry.

[Sammy]

Probably from his own guitar.

[Simon Templar]

Probably someone had a sense of poetic justice. A guitar string for a guitarist. Let me see that thing. Ow.

[Shirley Gray]

What's the matter?

[Simon Templar]

I pulled it tight. It cut into my hands. Hey, wait a minute. How did you know Terry was killed with an E string, Shirley?

[Shirley Gray]

Well, it was beside him when I found him. Between the time I called the police and the time they got here, someone had taken him.

[Simon Templar]

Shirley, my sweet Emily Post has it that when one is in possession of evidence or information about evidence, one tells the cops or one suffers. One does.

[Shirley Gray]

Well, I was afraid.

[Simon Templar]

But you see, you are more afraid now. This thing is a warning for Sammy. For you or for everybody. Hey, by the way, where is Sammy? Why didn't he come running when he heard you scream?

[Sammy]

Same reason I knew she was in the green room and not his dressing room. His room is soundproof.

[Simon Templar]

Well, I move that we adjourn to Sammy's little cell and see.

[Shirley Gray]

No.

[Simon Templar]

Surely you're not going to be stubborn.

[Shirley Gray]

All right, let's go.

[Simon Templar]

Something tells me we've got to break it down.

[Sammy]

Oh, Sammy, the E string again.

[Simon Templar]

All right, Dick, now the cops. The cops.

[Shirley Gray]

But Sammy.

[Simon Templar]

We'll take care of Sammy, I hope.

[Dick Carvin]

Mr. Templer. I have answered the questions of the police. I have answered the questions of my wife. Now you want me to answer your questions?

[Simon Templar]

My friend is doorman of this house of culture. You are in a most enviable position. You see who goes and who comes. Now, let me review the bidding. The famous Terry Richards.

[Dick Carvin]

The infamous Terry Richards.

[Simon Templar]

Nonetheless, he was killed. A bumbling, murderous toad came within a minute of killing Sammy. Today the same wart brained idiot delivered a rabbit punch to my neck. I only want to be sure it was no outside force. Do you follow me?

[Dick Carvin]

As the animal act follows the acrobats, Mr. Templar. But I must repeat, no insidious force has come through These portals. Unless that force be you. And you should hear Chief Ruggles on the subject of you police.

[Simon Templar]

You don't like the police?

[Dick Carvin]

Mr. Templar, the police were put on this earth for one reason. So that so called musicians could arise in the morning with the assurance that somewhere on earth there was someone lower on the scale of human beings.

[Simon Templar]

You could be censored for that. Tell me, are you here all the time?

[Dick Carvin]

Mr. Templar, there are matters one does not discuss with just any stranger.

[Simon Templar]

Oh, oh, oh, touche. I'm sure. I. I simply want to learn who could be a murderer, that's all. It's a simple want. Some people want food. I want a murderer. Some people want a new apartment. I want a sneaky soft pedal thug who could walk so softly he would be unheard of. And who would slug me from behind.

[Dick Carvin]

Even I could do that, Mr. Templar. I wear sneakers. They're relaxing. I could come upon you so quietly, so you could.

[Simon Templar]

I'll give it thought, thank you so very much.

[Dick Carvin]

It was nothing, Mr. Temple.

[Simon Templar]

I know nothing. Are you feeling better?

[Sammy]

Sammy Templer, Are you still around?

[Simon Templar]

You're not happy with me, Sammy.

[Shirley Gray]

Sammy, please. If it weren't for Mr. Templer, you might be dead.

[Sammy]

Oh, if he hadn't shown up, it wouldn't have happened. He got ahold of something and scared somebody, that's all.

[Simon Templar]

Whom did I frighten, Sammy? You?

[Sammy]

What do you mean?

[Simon Templar]

It occurs to me that if I were a person so willed and so frightened, I could hold a wire about my neck and induce unconscious.

[Sammy]

You've got rocks in your head, Templar. Why don't you leave it alone? Let the cops.

[Simon Templar]

Because somebody slugged me, Sammy, and I'm very sensitive about such things.

[Shirley Gray]

Why don't you two stop fighting? This is serious. Somebody else is going to get hurt.

[Simon Templar]

Yes.

[Sammy]

And I hereby nominate Simon Templar.

[Simon Templar]

I must decline because of the press of business. Look, instead of us arguing like this, why don't you go rehearse?

[Sammy]

Oh, great. Now he's gonna run the band too.

[Simon Templar]

No, but at least you'll be out of my hair for a while.

[Sammy]

Oh, you do it.

[Simon Templar]

Sammy has an abrupt personality. Well, Shirley, we're alone.

[Shirley Gray]

Simon, are you getting anywhere?

[Simon Templar]

The answer to that would have to come from your own lovely lips. You're very sweet, Shirley. To see you as you are now at. Well, as they say in the soap operas, it does something to me here.

[Shirley Gray]

Suppose whoever it is gets away with it? Suppose he succeeds next time, kills Sammy or me.

[Simon Templar]

Tell me, Shirley, did you kill Terry?

[Shirley Gray]

What did you say?

[Simon Templar]

I said, did you kill Terry and try to kill Sammy Simon. I'm very rude. My analyst tells me. Never mind my analyst. I hate him. You didn't answer my question.

[Shirley Gray]

No, I didn't kill Terry. You satisfied?

[Simon Templar]

Eminently. Tell me something, Shirley. A couple of years ago you were going great guns as a soloist. I remember reading something about a big recording contract. I had your recording of April in Paris. It was one of the best things I ever heard.

[Shirley Gray]

I'm still getting royalties on it.

[Simon Templar]

How is it that you came to work with a band? What happened that you gave up your contracts and your big career? Why do you stay with this band?

[Shirley Gray]

Is my career pertinent?

[Simon Templar]

I don't know. But I do know that we're going to have this cleared up very soon.

[Shirley Gray]

Oh, do you really think so?

[Simon Templar]

Mm. I've got something right on the tip of my mind. Can't quite get hold of it, but I will. And if we can clear it up in time and Sammy has the band in shape, you'll be hitting the road, so you'd better be in shape.

[Shirley Gray]

But I.

[Simon Templar]

Why don't you go to your dressing now and rest, huh?

[Dick Carvin]

Go on.

[Simon Templar]

It'll do you good.

[Shirley Gray]

Well, all right, if you say so.

[Simon Templar]

I'll walk with you. Is that idea of Dick's about temptation going to work out really?

[Shirley Gray]

I don't know, Simon. I'm not too crazy about it, but maybe it will. I hope so for Dick's sake.

[Simon Templar]

Dick's sake?

[Shirley Gray]

Yes. You know, every time Sammy wrote an arrangement so Dick would have some breaks, Terry would insist that it be rewritten for his guitar. Poor Dick would just sit up and keep a rhythm, as he said. All he does is play those lousy drums.

[Simon Templar]

Yes, it might be a break for Dick at that. He's a nice fellow. He's got something coming, I should suppose.

[Shirley Gray]

Well, this is where I drop off. What are you going to do?

[Simon Templar]

Oh, I don't know. Catch a murderer, maybe. Hello, dick.

[Sammy]

Oh, hello, Mr. Templar.

[Simon Templar]

Oh, no, no, don't stop playing. Go right ahead, Dick.

[Sammy]

Oh, I was just passing the time of day. You having any luck?

[Simon Templar]

Well, I'm about to step out of the store window and call for Philip Marlowe.

[Sammy]

Well, if there's anything I can do, or any of the fellas for that matter, I know they'll help.

[Simon Templar]

I thought they were all happy to see your late maestro go. That was the impression I had.

[Sammy]

Now, Sammy might give you that impression or that whacked up doorkeeper out there, but I don't think anybody likes to see somebody murdered. Especially when they know the killer is still on the loose.

[Simon Templar]

Mm. But you fellas seem to be taking it in stride.

[Sammy]

Some people. Yes, some people know me.

[Simon Templar]

I'm worried. Oh, take it easy now. Say, you certainly need a lot of paraphernalia in your trade.

[Sammy]

Yeah, cymbals, chimps, bongo, tambourines.

[Simon Templar]

What are these things?

[Sammy]

Oh, these? These are claves.

[Simon Templar]

What are they for?

[Sammy]

Set a rhythm for the Latin American stuff. Here, let me show you.

[Simon Templar]

See?

[Sammy]

Very simple.

[Simon Templar]

Yes, indeed, very simple. Yeah, this is quite an array of stuff for one who just beats the drums.

[Sammy]

That's all I do, beat these lousy drums.

[Simon Templar]

Well, I have to do some more snooping, Dick. I'll see you around.

[Sammy]

Okay, Mr. Templar.

[Simon Templar]

Lousy drums.

[Sammy]

Hey, what's the idea of busting in here?

[Simon Templar]

Tammy, I've got two questions for you. If you're interested in finding Terry Richards killer.

[Sammy]

I'm not.

[Simon Templar]

Number one, you were in the paratroops.

[Sammy]

Yes, I was in the paratroops.

[Simon Templar]

Number two, did you make patrols behind the lines where you had to kill a man with your own hands? You scum. I asked you a question. Did you?

[Sammy]

That's my answer. Now get out of here. And if I set eyes on you again, I'll.

[Simon Templar]

Kill me, Sammy, get out. You know, I think I'd feel much better if you'd take my head in your lap and bathe my face. I feel much better.

[Shirley Gray]

Oh, Simon, stop it. You know, you shouldn't have just barged in on Sammy like that. He has a temper and he doesn't like to be reminded of. Well, you just should have been more diplomatic.

[Simon Templar]

I was. Diplomacy, my dear girl, is not always a matter of kid gloves.

[Shirley Gray]

Oh, Simon, why don't you give it up? I'm awfully sorry I got you into this.

[Simon Templar]

I'm not at all. It's well worth everything just to sit here and have your sympathy and. Hey, Shirley.

[Shirley Gray]

Simon, what's the matter?

[Simon Templar]

That dress for him, round the neck of it, an E string.

[Shirley Gray]

Simon, who would you.

[Simon Templar]

Never mind. Shirley, I. I think I know what it means now. All of it.

[Shirley Gray]

But why me? Do I know something? What is it?

[Simon Templar]

No, you don't know anything. But you've done something. Yes. Yes, it figures.

[Shirley Gray]

Oh, Simon.

[Simon Templar]

Now don't cry. Shirley, Tell me, did Sammy get someone to take Terry's place with the guitar?

[Shirley Gray]

No.

[Simon Templar]

Good. First, we'll take care of that for him.

[Shirley Gray]

But I, I.

[Simon Templar]

Second, you're going to make sure the public address system is warmed up in the wing so I can use it. And third, you're Going to tell Sammy and Dick. You want to run through Temptation?

[Shirley Gray]

Oh, no, Simon, I couldn't.

[Simon Templar]

Don't make like that tired old gag. You know the show must go on. It's one of the most important things in your life. And I want you to do just as I say. Or I'm afraid you're not going to have a life to have important things happen in.

[Sammy]

Okay, let's take it once and then forget it. Nope, Carl. It's up to you, Dick. Take it in the downflip.

[Simon Templar]

You ready, maestro? Yeah. Okay, now remember what you did.

[Sammy]

Ready, Shirley?

[Shirley Gray]

Yeah, Sammy.

[Sammy]

Dick, roll it.

[Shirley Gray]

You came.

[Sammy]

I was alone. I should have known.

[Shirley Gray]

You were temptation. You smile luring me on. My heart was gone. You were temptation.

[Simon Templar]

Okay, maestro, it's yours.

[Sammy]

Stop it. Stop it. Now, where that guitar come from? Stop at me. Stop at it.

[Simon Templar]

What's the matter, Dick?

[Sammy]

You gotta wait for me, Templer.

[Simon Templar]

I'll kill you. Your killing days are over, son. All over, Simon.

[Sammy]

What are you trying to do, Templar? You trying to louse up the whole band?

[Simon Templar]

The music you play hasn't loused up your band. How could I possibly do it? Simon will clip you, Dick.

[Shirley Gray]

How could it? I don't understand.

[Simon Templar]

We understand, don't we, Dick?

[Sammy]

I don't know what you're talking about.

[Simon Templar]

Sammy, if you will call the cops, I'll tell Dick a little story. About a man who was very ambitious. Who wanted to be big and important like Terry Richards. Who didn't want anybody to get in the way of his ambitions. Who admired selfishness and ruthlessness. It's about the story we'll tell, isn't it, Dick?

[Sammy]

All I do is beat these lousy drums. All I do is beat these lousy drums.

[Shirley Gray]

But why did he try to kill me, Simon?

[Simon Templar]

Ayah, dear. Just remain as you are.

[Shirley Gray]

Isn't this romantic, Simon? You should know that.

[Simon Templar]

Oh, I do know. He killed Terry. Because as you said, Terry took all the licks. Is that what you say? That Dick thought belonged to him. Then he got real ambitious. He wanted to be like Krupa, have his own band. And he tried to kill Sammy. Then he could fight for the leadership of a band that was already great.

[Shirley Gray]

Oh, yeah. So awful.

[Simon Templar]

Dear heart and gentlewoman.

[Shirley Gray]

It's so wonderful, Simon.

[Simon Templar]

I mean, meeting you.

[Shirley Gray]

Oh, but when did you first suspect?

[Simon Templar]

That you were wonderful?

[Shirley Gray]

No. That Dick was the killer.

[Simon Templar]

I was puzzled that someone had used a guitar string for the purpose of strangling Terry Richards. It cuts into the hands and there's no purchase unless it's wound around the hands. And that gives no wire for strangulation. Then I came across the cloves and Dick's drums, and everything fell into place.

[Shirley Gray]

I see. You know, I remember when Sammy got back from the army and we had a party and he got drunk and told us how they used to kill the enemy with wire, the ends of which were tied to batons to give them. What did you say? Purchase.

[Simon Templar]

Shirley, you're making Simon sound anticlimactic. And that's not in the contract.

[Shirley Gray]

Oh, I'm sorry, Simon. You really did a good job.

[Simon Templar]

I'm. Now, just stay as you are, dear.

[Shirley Gray]

Oh, Simon.

[Simon Templar]

Well, in any event, Dick remembered Sammy's tale to the paratroops. He tied the ends of the guitar strings to the clavis he used for Latin American rhythms. And then he approached his victims from the rear, looped the wire over their heads and curtains.

[Shirley Gray]

Oh, how terrible.

[Simon Templar]

He was very clever. When you screamed and fainted and we came to you, he stepped behind me and slugged me. Then he ran to make his pass at killing Sammy. He wasn't clever enough to take his time and make it thorough.

[Shirley Gray]

Oh, I think it's so gruesome.

[Simon Templar]

I think it's wonderful.

[Shirley Gray]

Oh, Simon, you can't.

[Simon Templar]

But I do. The more I explain, the more you shiver. And the more you shiver, the closer you come. And it's wonderful.

[Shirley Gray]

Will you please listen to me for a moment?

[Simon Templar]

No, dear. You're upset. You'll be going back to the city now, you know. I think that monster, Chief Ruggles, will release all of you. Why don't you have dinner at my place? Just you and me? You'll like my place. I have a fine collection of modern art, especially Picasso.

[Shirley Gray]

You're inviting me to come up and see your Picasso?

[Simon Templar]

My dear, when one is charming as you comes to my place, it's not to see the Picassos but the handwriting on the wall.

[Sammy]

What are you doing with my wife, Templar?

[Simon Templar]

Your.

[Sammy]

My wife?

[Simon Templar]

Oh, how depressing.

[Shirley Gray]

Simon, that's what I've been trying to tell you. You asked why I stayed with this band and gave up my other career. Well, it's because Sammy and I have been secretly married for six months.

[Simon Templar]

Oh, no.

[Shirley Gray]

That's why I called you. I was afraid when the police found out, they'd think that Sammy killed Terry because of jealousy.

[Sammy]

I would still like to know, Templer, what you were doing with your arm around my wife.

[Simon Templar]

I. Oh, I was consoling her.

[Sammy]

I've got some consolation for you, Sammy.

[Simon Templar]

I wouldn't advise violence. I'm ready this time, violence.

[Sammy]

You've got me all wrong.

[Dick Carvin]

Chief.

[Sammy]

Chief Ruggles.

[Simon Templar]

Sammy.

[Adam Graham]

Now what do you want?

[Sammy]

You still looking for Templar? What else? Here he is.

[Simon Templar]

Oh, no. Templar. Hello, Chief.

[Sammy]

I want to talk to you. Say goodbye to the nice man, Shirley.

[Shirley Gray]

Goodbye, Simon. And thanks.

[Simon Templar]

Adieu. Nice week. We'll meet again.

[Sammy]

Over my dead body.

[Simon Templar]

I'll try to arrange.

[Sammy]

You have been listening to another adventure of the Saint. The Robin Hood of modern crime. And now, here's our star, Vincent Price.

[Simon Templar]

Ladies and gentlemen, in tonight's cast, you heard Vivi Janis, Larry Dobkin, Lou Merrill, Jack Edwards and Bill Johnstone. This is Vincent Price inviting you to join us again next week at this same time for another exciting adventure of the Saint. Good night.

[Sammy]

Script of the Saint was written by Charles Glenn. The music was composed and conducted by Vaughn Dexter. The Saint, based on characters created by Leslie Charteris, is a James L. Safier production and is directed by Helen Mack. Vincent Price is soon to be seen in the Universal International picture Curtain Call at Cactus Cactus Creek. And all you Saint fans will be glad to know that the Saint comic books are on sale at all newsstand. Your announcer is Don Stanley. Next, it's Sam Spade. Then Summer Symphony on NBC. Save on family essentials at Safeway and Albertsons. This week at Safeway and Albertsons, enjoy

[Adam Graham]

eight piece double breaded famous chicken fried or baked dark meat featuring four legs

[Sammy]

and four thighs for just $5.99 each.

[Adam Graham]

Member price available in the deli and

[Sammy]

sweet red cherries are $2.97 per pound limit, 6 pounds.

[Adam Graham]

Member price with digital coupon plus 24 ounce.

[Sammy]

Selected varieties of fresh cut fruit bowls are $5 each.

[Adam Graham]

Visit safewayoralbertsons.com for more deals and ways to save. Welcome back. Well, another story with a musical setting, though this time swing setting. And the Saint learned an important lesson to really be sure of a woman's marital status before making advances. To be fair to Simon and everyone else, it really was an honest mistake. You can understand she wouldn't have been wearing a wedding ring even after the bandleader was killed. You wouldn't necessarily want that. You had the three a situation where you were secretly married, as that would tend to place suspicion on Sammy. But nevertheless, Sammy was not amused. And I'm not too hard on him because of the way the Saint asked that question about his wartime service. Now, of course, there are exceptions, but as a general rule, most return veterans did not want to talk too much about their experiences at war. In fact, I've even heard radio programs where they've had PSAs advising people, don't ask them about the war, don't ask them to provide details. So for the Saint to ask that question that way, yeah, it was a bit tactless. Of course, he was investigating a murder. But from Sammy's perspective, he doesn't actually have any capacity or business in being there. So to have this unwelcome interloper asking such a question of him, and he was probably asked about it by the police, probably in a more tactful way. Be hard to ask in a less tactful way. He certainly didn't feel obligated to answer to Simon Templar, and I can imagine that's part of the reason why he had no trouble turning him over to Chief Ruggles. One thing I will say about Chief Ruggles is it's an unusual name because there was actually a fairly famous character actor by the name of Charles Ruggles. Ruggles was known for quite a few comic roles, which cuts against the image of the chief that they're trying to project of this hard nosed small town cop. Even for the era. A bigger challenge was that there was actually a television sitcom called the Ruggles in which Charles Ruggles played the main character. So it's an unusual name and an odd one to give to a kind of hard nosed walk on Police Chief. The song Temptation Had a Wide Variety is one of the more popular songs of the era. It was written by Nashio, Herb Brown and Arthur Freed and published in 1933. There were versions done by Ben Crosby. So many cover versions. And that's not even counting all of the radio singers who took a turn with this song because when they were doing live music on radio, you would often have the, rather than having like individual music, you would have the very talented show singer sing, you know, whatever song was most popular. So this was, this is one of her quite a few versions of and I thought was fairly well done for this episode. Listener comments and feedback now. And we go once again to our listener survey where Russell from West Haven, Connecticut writes, love Vincent Price. Something about the man even though he went to Yale to be able to do Shakespeare and avenge his wife from the horrible doctors, the non terrible doctors love me. That Vincent Price, well, even so many years after his death he remains a recognized and cultural icon and glad to be able to feature him on the podcast. All right, well now it's time to thank our Patreon supporter of the day and I want to, I want to go ahead and thank Rebecca patreon supporter since February 2021 currently supporting the podcast at the Psalmist level of $4 or more per month. Thanks so much for your support, Rebecca. 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 next Monday with another episode of the Saint, but join us back here tomorrow for the big story, where now, let's see.

[Sammy]

You want the other member of the gang? I told you there was four. That's me and Marilyn Keach. And the fourth? The fourth is Noonan, 75. 25 Noonan, we call him that on account of that's the cut. He always tries. We know, we know. Come on. Well, now, if I could make a suggestion to you. I think this is gonna surprise you. I'd pick up Noonan on the robbery. Good for 10 or 20 at least. But if you stopped here, you'd be missing a bet.

[Simon Templar]

How's that?

[Sammy]

Would you happen to remember a kind of a jeweler by the name of Emanuel Liebman? What about Liebman? Well, nobody thought about Noonan and Liebman today. Now, I can't say exactly that Noonan shot him since I didn't see him to it, only. Well, I ask you, Mr. Attorney, ain't 7525 well known for the way he keeps squeezing the trigger? You saying Noonan did it? Well, all I know is the morning of that shooting, like, 15, 20 minutes after it happened, I got a phone call from Noonan, and he says, I'm in trouble. Bad God. So I says, come by. I'll help you. Yeah, you helped him, all right. You helped him fine. Well, I kept my mouth shut 16 months without saying a word tonight. What's the matter? You don't like my testimony, mister?

[Dick Carvin]

All right, all right.

[Sammy]

I want a statement on all this car signed. I don't want you suddenly discovering I nearly broke your arm to get it out of here. I don't think that's fair, Attorney. I may be a stooly, but nobody says I ever went back on my way.

[Adam Graham]

I hope you'll be with us then. In the meantime, send your comments to Box [e-mail] 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.

[Simon Templar]

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[Sammy]

Save on family essentials at Safeway and Albertsons this week at Safeway and Albertsons,

[Adam Graham]

enjoy eight piece double breaded famous chicken fried or baked dark meat featuring four

[Sammy]

legs and four thighs for just $5.99 each.

[Adam Graham]

Member price available in the deli and

[Sammy]

sweet red cherries are $2.97 per pound limit 6 pounds.

[Adam Graham]

Member price with digital coupon plus 24

[Sammy]

ounce selected varieties of fresh cut fruit bowls are $5 each.

[Adam Graham]

Visit safewayoralbertsons.com for more deals and ways to save.

[Sammy]

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