The Saint: Sonata for a Slayer (EP4976)

Summary

Episode Summary: The Saint – "Sonata for a Slayer"

Podcast: The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio
Host: Adam Graham
Date: May 18, 2026
Episode: EP4976

---

Overview

In this golden-age radio mystery, Simon Templar—alias “The Saint”—is swept into a twisty musical murder when renowned concert pianist Lauret Opdahl fears for the life of his former pupil and requests The Saint’s help. But before more can be revealed, Opdahl himself is killed, leaving Templar and his ally Mickey Clark to unravel a web of forgeries, intrigue, and dying clues—all centered around a possibly genuine (and incredibly valuable) Beethoven manuscript.

---

Key Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

1. Nightclub Encounter and Mysterious Warning

[02:40]

• Simon Templar meets Lauret Opdahl, famed pianist, at "The Birdcage" nightclub.
• Opdahl shares his worries:
  • Johnny Crawford, a former pupil, is in danger of being killed.
  • The killer will be inspired by Beethoven, a composer dead a hundred years.
  • Opdahl invites Templar to his home the following morning for details.
• Memorable banter establishes the wit and tone:
  • Opdahl: “A musical composer who has been dead for over a hundred years. Ludwig van Beethoven.” [05:54]

2. Murder at the Maestro’s Home

[06:46–08:16]

• Templar arrives with Mickey Clark (Opdahl’s secretary) at Opdahl’s home.
• There's gunfire: Opdahl is shot in his music room.
• As he dies, Opdahl tries to play a phrase on the piano—his dying clue.
  • Templar: “That was no prelude in D sharp being played… it was a prelude to murder.” [07:05]
• They find two torn papers: one a personal notepaper saying "Paul", the other a manuscript fragment signed "Ludwig van Beethoven".

3. Interview with Paul de Gage

[09:33–12:06]

• Paul de Gage, Opdahl’s concert manager, claims he possesses an untouched, authentic Beethoven manuscript.
• Explanation:
  • De Gage is selling the, supposedly real, manuscript to collectors.
  • Johnny Crawford, the threatened pianist, seems uninvolved.
  • The manuscript De Gage holds is intact, not torn.

4. A Killer Strikes Again

[12:46–14:20]

• Back at Opdahl’s house:
  • Templar and Mickey are accosted by a thug (Jensen), seeking the manuscript fragment.
  • Jensen is shot in the struggle, and the attacker escapes with the paper after knocking Templar unconscious.
• Quippy Templar:
  • “My halo wouldn’t look too well on top of a shroud.” [07:30]
  • “Somehow the patting and massage I get after a shave doesn’t give me anything like the sensation I’m getting now.” [14:21]

5. Ferry to Coronado: More Clues and Confrontations

[15:11–18:38]

• Templar and Mickey head to Coronado, where De Gage plans to auction the manuscript.
• On the ferry, they overhear Johnny Crawford and Jensen plotting.
  • “The pianist is a former pupil of London now holding forth at a dingy dive called the Birdcage.” [16:11]
• Templar is knocked out again and tossed into the water but survives.
  • Mickey: “If you’d only listen to me, Jensen or Crawford or whoever it was wouldn’t have hit you on the head.” [19:14]

6. The "Musical Clue" Unraveled

[19:37–21:54]

• At the library, Templar learns that Johnny Crawford is a Beethoven “expert,” capable of forging manuscripts.
• The musical phrase Opdahl played as he died is finally identified by Mickey as familiar—the very notes Opdahl last played.

7. Dramatic Finale: The Fake Manuscript Revealed

[22:13–25:36]

• At the auction, Templar interrupts De Gage to expose the manuscript as a fake:
  • The piece was a duet; the manuscript offered was for solo piano.
  • Only someone like Johnny Crawford, a Beethoven authority, could forge it.
  • The dying piano notes spell out “DE GAGE”—naming the murderer.
  • Templar: “He couldn’t talk, but he could play. And he played six notes. Those notes spell the name of the murderer.” [24:55]
• Chaos ensues—De Gage and accomplices are arrested.

8. Epilogue and Solution Recap

[25:36–26:57]

• It’s explained how Opdahl discovered the forgery and was killed for it.
• Johnny Crawford, as both a pianist and Beethoven “expert,” forged the manuscript and was working with De Gage.
• The musical clue Opdahl played spelled out “DE GAGE”.

---

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• "Murder is always macabre, Mr. Templar." – Opdahl, establishing noir gravity ([05:19])
• Mickey (quipping to Templar): “If you’d only listen to me, Jensen or Crawford or whoever it was wouldn’t have hit you on the head. And you'd be rational now rather than non compass mental.” ([19:14])
• "He couldn’t talk, but he could play. And he played six notes. Those notes spell the name of the murderer." – Templar’s climax reveal ([24:55])
• Mickey: “And of course I finally got what you meant about those six notes Mr. Opdahl played. They were de, spelling ‘de Gage’.” ([26:39])
• Final romantic banter:
  • Mickey: “Simon, when are you going to stop being logical?”
  • Templar: “Oh, right now.”
    ([26:57])

---

Host Commentary (Adam Graham)

[30:54–31:58]

• Adam Graham praises the dying clue as particularly logical and fitting, noting:
  • “The man who's dying knows that the Saint is there because of the shot. He is unable to speak or find the strength to form words. But he is a musician and can still play these simple notes...”
• Trivia: Alice Frost (voice of Mickey Clark), more often associated with “Mr. and Mrs. North,” was in this Hollywood-based episode.

---

Key Timestamps

• Key setup & meeting Opdahl: 02:40–06:09
• Murder & dying clue: 06:46–08:16
• Investigating Paul de Gage & manuscript: 09:33–12:06
• Attack and Templar knocked out: 12:46–14:20
• Ferry-boat conversations & clue-building: 15:11–18:38
• Library research and solution forms: 19:37–21:54
• Auction and final confrontation: 22:13–25:36
• Wrap-up and solution explanation: 25:36–26:57
• Host commentary: 30:54–31:58

---

Tone & Style

The episode delivers classic Saint wit—playful, urbane, dryly humorous—alongside the suspense and intricate plotting of old-time radio mysteries. Musical motifs, clever banter, and a fair-play puzzle atmosphere pervade the story, with dialogue laced with both noir gravitas and light, flirtatious exchanges between Templar and Mickey Clark.

---

For New Listeners

• This episode showcases the quintessential Saint: clever deduction, sparkling repartee, and a mix of high society with the underworld.
• The “dying clue” element is a highlight, with musical notes forming a literal name.

---

Final Note

A classic “fair play” whodunit with a musical twist and a logical, satisfying solution—showcasing both the enduring appeal of the old-time radio detective format and the unique charm of Simon Templar, The Saint.

---

[Summary skips ads, promos, and non-content sections as requested.]

Transcript

[Mickey Clark]

This summer, don't squeeze in. Spread out. Find homes big enough for your whole guest list on vrbo. From family reunions to trips with friends, VRBO has spacious summer stays for every group size and budget. That's vacation rentals done right. Start exploring on VRBO and book your next stay now.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

And Doug, there's nowhere I wouldn't go to help someone customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual. Even if it means sitting front row at a comedy show.

[Simon Templar]

Hey, everyone. Check out this guy and his bird. What is this, your first date?

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Oh, no. We help people customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual together. We're married. Me to a human, him to a bird.

[Simon Templar]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Anyways, get a'@libertymutual.com or with your local agent.

[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 Saint. But first, I do want to encourage you. If you're enjoying this podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software. I also want to let you know that today's program is brought to you in part by the financial support of our listeners. You can support the show on a one time basis. Support.greatdetectives.net and become one of our ongoing Patreon supporters for as little as $2 per month. Just go to patreon.greatdetectives.net but here from June 18, 1950 is Sonata Forest lay.

[Simon Templar]

The Adventures of the Saint, starring Vincent Price. The Saint. 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. A proof that the language of music is a truly universal one. Mr. Templar isn't. The people gathered here, they run the gamut from saints to sinners. Would you not agree? I would indeed, Mr. Opto. Won't you join me? Oh, I accept with pleasure. Then you know me, Mr. Templar. Well, if you promise to keep the deep, dark secret, I'll confess that I have bought tickets to Carnegie hall from time to time. Piano concerts, mostly. And those performed by Lawrence Opdol primarily. That is a pleasing compliment, Mr. Templar. Well, it's understandable how I'd recognize a famous concert pianist like Lauret. Opd. Thank you. But the. The reverse is rather puzzling. Then if you will keep the deep, dark secret, I shall confess you were pointed out to me By a newspaper reporter seated at my table. Which explained half the compliments. But why did you come to my table? Why did you come here to this nightclub called the bird cage, Mr. Tindler? Well, I could say because it reminds one of the Black Hole of Calcutta. But the real reason was to hear the piano music of Johnny Crawford. Yes, precisely. As did I. A Dixieland hepcat receiving recognition from a Carnegie hall maestro. A Johnny Crawford. With one my pupil, Mr. Templar. He had a magnificent technical grasp of classical music, but no artistic soul. He was a great disappointment to me. Nevertheless, I do not wish to see Johnny Crawford dead. That is why I have come to you now. That's a rather macabre touch to an otherwise light hearted evening. Murder is always macabre, Mr. Templar. So it's to be death by violence? It is. And I shall tell you a great deal more about it at my home tomorrow morning, Mr. Templer. 637 Reseda Dr. I am certain that you will be kind enough to be there. That's the kind of certainty that causes horse players to go broke, Mr. Apto. Then let us say I'm playing a long shot. And I'm betting that among the saints and sinners present here, you are numbered among the former. One question. Yes? Could you give me any idea as to why someone should desire to remove their fourth Johnny Crawford from the ranks of the living? Oh, I can do better than that, Mr. Templar. I can give you the name of the person who will be responsible. Oh, and that person? A musical composer who has been dead for over a hundred years. Ludwig van Beethoven.

[Mickey Clark]

Yes. Well, should I say thank you or slap your face?

[Simon Templar]

What do you think?

[Mickey Clark]

The slaps have it. What could I do for you?

[Simon Templar]

You must be kidding.

[Mickey Clark]

And if you're here to see Mr. Opdahl, you must be Simon Templar.

[Simon Templar]

Guilty. And you?

[Mickey Clark]

Mickey Clark. Mr. Opdahl's secretary.

[Simon Templar]

Mickey Clark.

[Mickey Clark]

Well, won't you lope in, Mr. Templar?

[Simon Templar]

Oh, thanks. I could hardly refuse such an enthusiastic invitation. Well, well, well. Rachmaninoff. Prelude and C Sharp. Is that the maestro playing?

[Mickey Clark]

It's not Jimmy Durante.

[Simon Templar]

Oh.

[Mickey Clark]

The music room's at the far end of the foyer. Mr. Opdahl's expecting you. Come with me.

[Simon Templar]

Thanks. I'll take advantage.

[Mickey Clark]

Oh, no. There's a shot.

[Simon Templar]

Unification acknowledged. Come on, let's go.

[Mickey Clark]

What? What's happened in there?

[Simon Templar]

Just stay behind me and let me find out first.

[Mickey Clark]

Mr. Templar.

[Simon Templar]

Yeah? That was no prelude in D sharp being played in here, Mickey. It was a prelude to murder.

[Mickey Clark]

To murder?

[Simon Templar]

Where do those French Doors lead to

[Mickey Clark]

right to the terrace. Why?

[Simon Templar]

See if it isn't too late to help Mr. Opler while I.

[Mickey Clark]

No.

[Simon Templar]

Well, it's nasty weather out anyway.

[Mickey Clark]

But aren't you going after him?

[Simon Templar]

My halo wouldn't look too well on top of a shroud. Where's the nearest telephone?

[Mickey Clark]

Telephone?

[Simon Templar]

I know this comes as a great surprise, Mickey, but the police are rather fussy about these things.

[Mickey Clark]

Oh, yes, of course. The telephone's right up. Up, dog. He's not dead. He's trying to play something. He's trying to.

[Simon Templar]

Take it easy, Mickey. Take it easy. Abdo Abdul, It's Simon Templer. Who shot you? Do you know who shot you?

[Mickey Clark]

Can't talk, but he's trying to play.

[Simon Templar]

Abdo, can you hear me? It's temper. Who shot you, man? Who shot.

[Mickey Clark]

It's a Templar. Is it?

[Simon Templar]

He is. Mickey. This time it's for sure.

[Mickey Clark]

What was he trying to say as he died? Tell us that he was murderer.

[Simon Templar]

One thing I've learned in this drab, weary life, my dear, is never to second guess a dead man. Hey, what's this? Caught under the music rack.

[Mickey Clark]

It looks like a couple of torn bits of paper.

[Simon Templar]

You thereby win your A for a cumin, Mickey.

[Mickey Clark]

Well, I recognize that top one, Mr. Kempler. Personal note paper used by Mr. Opdahl.

[Simon Templar]

Who is Paul?

[Mickey Clark]

Paul? Paul de Gage. Mr. Opdal's concert manager.

[Simon Templar]

Why, the name Paul is the only written word left on the page. Look, we might have a slightly better lead on this second bit of parchment.

[Mickey Clark]

Well, it's part of a music manuscript.

[Simon Templar]

Yeah, and an old one too, judging by the condition of the paper. And the signature attached there too. Ludwig van Beethoven.

[Mickey Clark]

Beethoven.

[Simon Templar]

The popular tune. Smith. Who left this mortal coil some hundred years ago. Do you think it's possible that the old boy came back? You sure you want to come along with me on this little jaunt?

[Mickey Clark]

Mickey Lawrence up doll was a swell boss and a wonderful guy. Is anything I can do to help you get the man who killed him, I'm going to do it.

[Simon Templar]

And all the time I thought it was my personality that intrigued him. Well, let's hope I'm not as disappointed by Mr. Opto's concert manager, Paul de. I. I still can't believe it. Mr. Timber blooded up. No. Dead. Nerded. Why would anyone want to murder nor a doctor? That was going to be my question, Mr. Gage. You don't suppose it was because he was going to tell me who wanted to murder Johnny Crawford, do you? Johnny Crawford? Yeah. Who? Who is he? No, no, you Obviously. Don't suppose any other suggestions? I'm sorry, Mr. Templar, but I'm so stunned by this news. Lawrence was going to pray for me this very evening.

[Mickey Clark]

And I was aware that Mr. Opdahl had a concert date for this evening.

[Simon Templar]

Mr. De G. It wasn't a concert engagement, Ms. Clark. By stroke of good fortune, I come into possession of an original musical manuscript of beethoven's piano. So? Nothing and laurette. Did you say Beethoven? Yes, it's an original that's never been published. It was known to exist, but was lost and moved to the publishers in 1824 and never turned up again until just recently.

[Mickey Clark]

Why, it must be worth A fortune, Mr. De Gage.

[Simon Templar]

Well, it is quite valuable, yes. I'm going to offer it for sale to a small group of collectors in coronado this evening. Lawrence had agreed to play it for me. But you wouldn't happen to have this manuscript here, would you? Yes, it's in my safe. Do you mind if we take a look at it? Why, of course not. I'll have it for you in just a moment. Thanks. It's a remarkable document. Seems to be no question as to its authenticity, and that always helps. How did you happen to get a hold of him? A refugee from vienna brought it to this country some years ago. Just discovered it among some old family possessions he'd brought along with him. Doesn't know how it got there. I'm selling it for him. There you are. Please handle it carefully, Mr. Templar. Quite old and fragile. Will probably tear quite easily. That wouldn't be an apology for the fact that it's torn right now, would it? Torn? Why, I'm not certain. I understand the missing signature should supply the missing meaning. Missing signature? You mean that. Oh, good heavens. Well, you really had me worried for a moment, Mr. Templer. But as you can see, this manuscript is in perfect condition. There's the original signature. Ludwig from Beethoven.

[Mickey Clark]

He's right, Simon. What about that chewing piece?

[Simon Templar]

Exactly what I was going to say, Mickey. Thanks for your trouble, Mr. De Gage. Sorry I bothered you. Not a question of bothering me, Mr. Templar. I'm. I'm merely puzzled. I don't understand what a date of a manuscript might have to do with the murder of Laura up. That's the reason. I'm sorry I bothered you, Mr. De Gage. Now neither have I.

[Mickey Clark]

Thank heaven the police are gone. I don't think I could have returned here. It dropped all this time.

[Simon Templar]

I'm not too happy about homicidal surroundings myself, Mickey.

[Mickey Clark]

Well, then why come back at all?

[Simon Templar]

I find Myself with an ungovernable impulse to indulge in musical composition. And I. More of that later. Mickey, it would appear we have an unexpected eavesdropper amongst us.

[Mickey Clark]

An unexpected.

[Simon Templar]

Oh, oh, don't stop now, Sam. If you don't mind, I'd just assume the farther away I am from lethal weapons, the better.

[Mrs. Wilcheck]

Better.

[Simon Templar]

I like it.

[Mickey Clark]

That is a gun in his hand, isn't it, Simon?

[Simon Templar]

Genus Automatic pistol, species caliber.45. That's very scientific, chum. Well, you better hand over that paper. Paper? Don't play coy, chum. The paper you took him off Doll's Musical. Oh, that. Oh, I'm sorry, but I'm saving autographs. Never had one of Beethoven's before. Yeah, I'll bet you never had your tummy blasted by a.45 slug before, either. True, true. I think I'd better take that gun. Lord. Yeah, Better give it to me.

[Mickey Clark]

All right, Tom, I will. Diamond. Oh, you. You killed him.

[Simon Templar]

Shut up. Shut up.

[Mickey Clark]

He's dead. You killed him. You.

[Simon Templar]

You said he shut up. Didn't I? I'll stand back. When I look at that paper, she'll be somewhere. Yeah. Inside pocket, huh?

[Mickey Clark]

Thanks, chum. Pretty brave with a gun, aren't you?

[Simon Templar]

Yeah. Better retired in the music business, sister. From where I sit, it don't look too healthy. Hello, baby.

[Mickey Clark]

Simon. Simon, please answer me. Are you all right? Simon, answer me, please.

[Simon Templar]

I must speak to my barber about this.

[Mickey Clark]

Simon.

[Simon Templar]

Somehow the patting and massage I get after a shave doesn't give me anything like the sensation I'm getting now.

[Mickey Clark]

Tommy, you're all right.

[Simon Templar]

Well, I will be when the boys operating the trip hammers on my skull knock off at 5 o'. Clock.

[Mickey Clark]

Why didn't you let me know? Why did you lie there playing possum like that?

[Simon Templar]

I doubt that a possum would appreciate the lovely picture you made as you bent over me. But as for me, well, I was in no hurry to wake up. What happened to chum?

[Mickey Clark]

He departed with your prize autograph after creasing your skull with a bullet and three.

[Simon Templar]

Threatening me with the same lovable soul, isn't he? My only consolation is that his aim is far worse than even his intentions.

[Mickey Clark]

Simon, for Pete's sake. Come across. So far I don't understand a thing

[Simon Templar]

which puts us both in the same boat. And speaking of boats. Come along, Mickey. We've got an appointment with one.

[Mickey Clark]

How nice. Any particular kind?

[Simon Templar]

Oh, yeah, a very particular kind. A ferry boat that's going to take us across the bay to Coronado.

[Mickey Clark]

Simon, this ferry Boat is like a ghost ship.

[Simon Templar]

Oh, now don't tell me that a little fog is getting you down, Mickey.

[Mickey Clark]

Little fog? It's so thick we can't even see the rail from here. Why are you so insistent on getting over to Coronado?

[Simon Templar]

Paul de Gage is selling a Beethoven manuscript to a bunch of collectors there, remember? One of my more famous hunches tells me that among those present should be a guy for whom capital punishment was invented.

[Mickey Clark]

I hope it's better than the two hunches you had on that torn manuscript.

[Simon Templar]

It has to be.

[Mickey Clark]

What is it, son?

[Simon Templar]

A pianist in the lounge. Do you hear it?

[Mickey Clark]

Yeah. Rather good.

[Simon Templar]

It should be. The pianist is a former pupil of London now holding forth at a dingy dive called the Birdcage.

[Mickey Clark]

The Birdcage?

[Simon Templar]

Simon.

[Mickey Clark]

You mean Johnny Crawford?

[Simon Templar]

Well, if it isn't he should sue for plagiarism. That's his personal theme song.

[Mickey Clark]

Johnny Crawford aboard this ferry boat. Now why would he be going to Coronado?

[Simon Templar]

That's a good question, Mickey. Suppose we ask Johnny for the answer door to the lounge. Should be be somewhere over here. Maybe it is.

[Mickey Clark]

But it looks like you'll have to navigate by radar to find it.

[Simon Templar]

Somebody's coming out on deck. Now all we have to do is find that. Calm down. Everything's going to be okay. I hope you're right, Jensen. I've got the creeps for fair. Never mind they don't get excited. We got the signature, didn't we? Who's going to know the difference now? I know it, Jensen. Maybe someone else does too. Oh, forget it, Johnny, will you? I'll meet you at the birdcage when it's all over. The Birdcage. Johnny Crawford at the Birdcage. What are you kicking about? It's a living in it. Oh sure. Pretty soon we'll all be in a heavy sugar. Now just you wait. You better be right up.

[Mickey Clark]

They're gone, son. Hidden in the fog. Who were they?

[Simon Templar]

Didn't you recognize one of the voices? It was the friendly one who tried to part my hair with a.45.

[Mickey Clark]

What was it all about?

[Simon Templar]

That's the second question I have to ask Crawford. You wait here, Mickey. I'll be right back.

[Mickey Clark]

Simon, you can't. Jensen's got a gun.

[Simon Templar]

Oh, don't worry about that. I'll keep my fingers crossed. I'll be seeing you.

[Mickey Clark]

Simon. I can't stay here alone. I'm allergic to fog. Oh, you crazy. What? I can't even see you. Oh, Simon. Simon. What was that? What happened? Simon. Oh no. Simon.

[Simon Templar]

No, I have it,

[Mickey Clark]

Simon.

[Simon Templar]

Oh, frankly, no. I'm dance and my head aches. I've swallowed liberal quantities of sea water which I found much too salty. And I have a terrific yen to play the piano.

[Mickey Clark]

To play the. Oh, no, not again.

[Simon Templar]

Mickey, my dear, any psychiatrist will warn you of the dangers of inhibiting a creative urge. I think I'd better get into that lounge and get this one out of my system. Ah, me children make a grave mistake, Mickey, by not paying attention to music lessons. Now, if I'd only listened to Professor Heinrich Wurtzel.

[Mickey Clark]

If you'd only listen to me, Jensen or Crawford or whoever it was wouldn't have hit you you on the head. And you'd be rational now rather than non compass mental.

[Simon Templar]

Oh, you shouldn't speak so harshly of whoever it was, Mickey. When he tossed me into the briny, for some reason I thought of music, piano music. And I think I've got something. If I could only find the right combination.

[Mickey Clark]

Personally, I think you should try to find that psychiatrist you mentioned earlier. More attention to your noodle and best in noodling might reflect.

[Simon Templar]

Mickey, you've jumped to a big fat and incorrect conclusion. Listen to this.

[Mickey Clark]

Hardly what I'd call a musical tour de force.

[Simon Templar]

Mickey, you're not listening. I'll give you one more chance. There. Sound familiar to you?

[Mickey Clark]

Not in the least. But then I didn't take lessons from Professor Heinrich Wisdom which might account for. For my. Wait a minute. That phrase. Isn't that what Laura? Softball played just before he died.

[Simon Templar]

You see, you should have studied under Professor Werto. He would have given you 100 in musical identification.

[Mickey Clark]

Now, you're not trying to tell me that that little musical phrase means something, Simon?

[Simon Templar]

Let's see now. We'll be in Coronado at 6. That should give me about two hours to prove its meaning to you.

[Mickey Clark]

Sounds like rather complicated.

[Simon Templar]

The procedure itself will be simple. But first I have to clutter it up with a call to Lt. Flanagan and a little visit to the public library.

[Mickey Clark]

I can only say, Simon, that I trust the past hour and a half in that library was more entertaining to than it was to me.

[Simon Templar]

Oh, it was, Mickey, it was. You'd be surprised at the amount of interesting information one can garner in a library.

[Mickey Clark]

Maybe I wouldn't be so surprised if you'd share some of it with me.

[Simon Templar]

Well, I learned the very interesting tidbit that Ludwig van Beethoven lived from 1770 to 1827. That he wrote nine symphonies. Amazing that he had a sketchbook containing a mass in C sharp. A piano sonata. A few gone. Bach.

[Mickey Clark]

And if that's all, you can tell me about an hour and a half of wasted time?

[Simon Templar]

Well, not quite. I could mention the fact that one of the more incorrect books on Beethoven was written by a John Masefield Crawford.

[Mickey Clark]

What difference does it make who wrote the. Oh, John Mayfield Crawford. Could that be our Johnny Crawford by any chance? Could be an authority on Beethoven.

[Simon Templar]

A poor one, but an authority.

[Mickey Clark]

So what?

[Simon Templar]

So this. We're going to make a bid on a Beethoven manuscript. And don't be too surprised if we win it. And a murderer as well.

[Mickey Clark]

There's Paul de Gage up on the rock. Looks as though the bidding's about to begin.

[Simon Templar]

You couldn't ask for better timing from a metronome. All right, gentlemen. Quietly. Quiet. This was to be a very happy occasion, gentlemen, as you all know, for we were to present here tonight an original, authentic, and hitherto unknown manuscript of a piano sonata by Beethoven. In honor of the occasion, I prevailed upon my dear friend Lauret Opel to be the first to play the Sonopa. Unfortunately, as most of you now know, he has met with a tragic end. In deference to laureate's memory, I have not sought another pianist to substitute for him. I am certain you all share my feelings, and so I'd be very happy to play the sonata for you, Mr. De Gage.

[Mickey Clark]

Simon, are you crazy?

[Simon Templar]

I. I'm not certain I quite understand the meaning of this interruption, Miss Dempsey. Oh, I wouldn't let that bother me, Mr. De Gage. Now, as soon as I reach that piano there. Well, really, Mr. Templar, I. Oh, it's quite simple, Mr. De Gage. I'm going to substitute for Laura Sopdor. You? Why? I didn't know that you were a pianist, Mr. Templar. Oh, sure. One of the best. Listen to this, Mr. Templar. Mr. Templar, there can only be two explanations for this. This outrageous action on your part. You're either drunk or mad. I shall have to ask you to leave this hall at once. Now, surely, Mr. De Gege, you wouldn't want me to leave so thoroughly? Not before I've told these gentlemen that Beethoven never wrote the music on that manuscript you have for sale. Beethoven never wrote. That manuscript is a fake. No such piano sonata was ever written by Beethoven or lost on its way to the publisher. This is preposterous. The record of that sonata is in Beethoven's own sketchbook. I'll admit that a piano sonata is noted in the sketchbook, yes, but if the person who forged this manuscript had looked far enough, he'd have learned that the original was written for four hands as a duet, not for two. I can't believe it. This manuscript is a forgery. Written by a former so called expert named Johnny Crawford. But if this is so. Is it? Do you have any proof, Mr. Templar? Loris Opdahl's death is proof enough. He discovered the poetry. But then he made a grave mistake. He thought Crawford's life would be in danger to prevent the knowledge from coming out. But it was his own life that was taken. Then. Then it was Crawford killed him. Optil told me. Who killed him, Mr. De Gage. Optel. He couldn't talk, but he could play. And he played six notes. These notes. Those notes spell the name of the murderer. A name that will be verified by his accomplices when they're picked up by the police. And for the edification of those who never studied under Professor Heinrich Wurtzel. The note. You never hang this on me, Templar. Then I'd better leave him kill you for this, Templar. That's such a revolting thought, Gay. I'd better not risk possibility. Now what was that you were saying, Mr. Dey?

[Mickey Clark]

Silence.

[Simon Templar]

He can't say anything.

[Mickey Clark]

He's out.

[Simon Templar]

Come to think of it, so he is. And look at the time. Just 8 o'. Clock. I told you you'd have your answer in two hours, wouldn't I?

[Mickey Clark]

Then the whole idea was the Gauges from the start. And Johnny Crawford and Jensen were working for him.

[Simon Templar]

Mickey, why don't you stop your intellect from taking over for your emotions?

[Mickey Clark]

Simon. Then Crawford must have forged the manuscript. He was a good enough pianist and a semi authority on Beethoven to do it. But how did Mr. Opdahl come into it?

[Simon Templar]

You know, they say that boat rides are wonderful therapy in cases of inhibited romance.

[Mickey Clark]

Of course, Crawford was his pupil. I'll bet he got cold feet and showed Mr. Updahl a copy of the manuscript. And Mr. De Gage got wind of it, killed Mr. Opdahl and made off of the copy. Only part of it was torn off of the music rack.

[Simon Templar]

Oh, and the this blessed fog. It makes everything so warm and cozy.

[Mickey Clark]

It must have been the idea of a second manuscript that tipped you off, huh? Particularly when Jensen was so anxious to get the torn signature.

[Simon Templar]

I wonder if you'd still feel like slapping my face.

[Mickey Clark]

And of course I finally got what you meant about those six notes Mr. Apdar played. They were de Spelling de Gauge.

[Simon Templar]

Yeah. Mickey, when are you going to stop being logical?

[Mickey Clark]

Oh son, Right now.

[Simon Templar]

You have been listening to another adventure of the saint. The Robin Hood of Modern crime. And now, here is our star, Vincent Price. Ladies and gentlemen, one of the four horsemen is still riding across Europe, scarring the bodies and spirits of millions with brutal hooves. His name is Hunger and his victims are legion. Their cries for help are sounding right outside our door. Despite increased supplies of certain foods and improved crop conditions, Europe's need for more food is urgent and immediate. Americans can help now by sending food packages to Europe's hungry ones through the auspices of care, a non profit humanitarian organization. Care, spelled C A R E, stands for Cooperative for American Remittances to Europe. It is composed of the country's 26 top welfare agencies, all operating to drive the specter of hunger from Europe. You can aid in this work by sending a $10 remittance to Care New York. A 21 and a half pound food package will then be sent to any designated person in 15 countries. Or if you wish, CARE will select a recipient. Smaller food packages are available for lesser amounts. The address again is CARE New York. Remember, they still need care. 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.

[Mickey Clark]

Foreign.

[Simon Templar]

Script of the Saint was written by Sidney Marshall. Our cast included Alice Frost, Fritz Feld, Ted Osborne, Tony Barrett and George Nese. The music was composed and conducted by Von Dexter. The Saint, based on characters created by Leslie Charteris, is a James L. Safier production and is directed by Helen Martin Mack. Vincent Price is soon to be seen in the Universal International picture Curtain Call at Cactus Creek. All you Saint fans will be glad to know that the Saint comic books are on sale at all newsstands. Your announcer, Doug Gourlay. Monday night brings you two great adventure mystery programs side by side. On most NBC stations. You will hear Nightbeat and then Top Secret. Lovely Alona Massey stars in Top Secret, the story of espionage during the last war. Be sure to tune here tomorrow night for Night Thief and Top Secret. Next, sam spade, then summer symphony on NBC.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

And Doug, there's nowhere I wouldn't go to help someone customize and save on cards with Liberty Mutual. Even if it means sitting front row at a comedy show.

[Simon Templar]

Hey, everyone. Check out this guy and his bird. What is this, your first date?

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Oh, no. We help people customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual. Together we're married. Me to a human, him to a bird.

[Simon Templar]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Anyways, get a'[e-mail] or with your local agent.

[Simon Templar]

Liberty. Liberty. Liberty. Liberty.

[Adam Graham]

Welcome back. An enjoyable episode and one Thing I did like was the dying clue. And what I liked is that there was actually some logic to it. You know, when you get into this whole idea that you have in classic mysteries about dying clues, the thing that usually makes the most sense is when it turns out they were faked by the killer. Because what it ends up meaning otherwise is that as their lifeblood was ebbing out and they were passing from this world, they came up and constructed this elaborate puzzle that's very involved and difficult and unlikely to be solved. Here it makes perfect sense. The man who's dying knows that the Saint is there because of the shot. He is unable to speak or find the strength to form words.

[Simon Templar]

But.

[Adam Graham]

But he is a musician and can still play these simple notes, which he then does. And it makes sense. I totally buy that as a dying clue. One thing that is kind of interesting here is Alice Frost featuring in the cast. Vincent Price lived in Hollywood, and that's where the scene originated. So I wonder if Alice Frost had some project that took her to Hollywood for a while. Of course, she was still playing Mrs. North on the radio, and probably Mrs. North could have solved this even faster than the same. All right, well, now it's time to thank our Patreon supporter of the day. And I want to go ahead and thank BookGeek28, Patreon supporters since December 2021. Currently supporting the podcast at the Shamus level of doll or more per month. Thanks so much for your support, Bookgeek 28, and we will be back next Monday with another episode of the Saint. But join us back here tomorrow for the big story where he's been plaguing

[Mrs. Wilcheck]

me all day about him.

[Simon Templar]

Who is him, Mrs. Wilcheck?

[Mrs. Wilcheck]

Hired hand Chuck Snyder. My husband had a silly idea that Chuck and I were too friendly. That's why he fired him.

[Simon Templar]

Tell us what happened.

[Mrs. Wilcheck]

We stopped off at Ross's Bar for a beer. Beer always calms him down. But today he got worse.

[Simon Templar]

You went directly home from there?

[Mrs. Wilcheck]

That's right. I went to bed.

[Simon Templar]

What about your kids?

[Mrs. Wilcheck]

They were all right. They were asleep when we got home. I wasn't sleeping more than half an hour. When I woke up suddenly, there he was, standing all dressed with a gun in his hand. I screamed and ran. He fired at me and missed. I ran outside into the fields. And then I heard some more shots. I ran back, didn't see him, so I ran to the kid's room. And I saw Linda was shot. I grabbed her and ran for the car. Drove as fast as I could to the hospital? Because she was.

[Simon Templar]

Didn't you stop for your boy Paul? Weren't you worried about him, too?

[Mrs. Wilcheck]

He loved Paul more than anything. I didn't believe you would ever hurt him. He killed my boy.

[Adam Graham]

I hope you'll be with us then. In the meantime, send your comments to box13greatdetives.net follow us on Twitter at Radio Detectives and check us out on Instagram. Instagram.com Great Detectives from Boise, Idaho, this is your host, Adam Graham, signing off.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

And Doug, there's nowhere I wouldn't go to help someone customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual, even if it means sitting front row at a comedy show.

[Simon Templar]

Hey, everyone, Check out this guy and his bird. What is this, your first date?

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Oh, no. We help people customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual together. We're married. Me to a human, him to a bird.

[Simon Templar]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Anyways, get a [e-mail] or with your local agent.

[Simon Templar]

Liberty. Liberty. Liberty. Liberty.

[Mickey Clark]

When you manage procurement for multiple facilities, every order matters. But when it's for a hospital system, they matter even more. Grainger gets it and knows there's no time for managing multiple suppliers and no room for shipping delays. That's why Grainger offers millions of products in fast, dependable delivery so you can keep your facility stocked, safe and running smoothly. Call 1-800-GRAINGER click granger.com or just stop by Granger for the ones who get it done.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

And Doug, there's nowhere I wouldn't go to help someone customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual, even if it means sitting front row at a comedy show.

[Simon Templar]

Hey, everyone, check out this guy and his bird. What is this, your first date?

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Oh, no. We help people come customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual together. We're married. Me to a human, him to a bird.

[Simon Templar]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Anyways, get a'[e-mail] or with your local agent.

[Simon Templar]

Liberty. Liberty. Liberty. Liberty.