Podcast Summary

The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio

Episode: The Saint – "The Miracle Tea Party" (EP4926)
Original Airdate: March 9, 2026
Host: Adam Graham

Episode Overview

This episode features an audition episode of The Saint, titled "The Miracle Tea Party", likely recorded in 1944. Adam Graham introduces this rare gem of old-time radio, with Dennis Green portraying Simon Templar (aka The Saint), and an appearance by Leslie Charteris—the series' creator. The episode dives into witty intrigue as The Saint uncovers a clever espionage racket disguised as a miracle cure business in New York, blending mystery, comedy, and classic radio adventure.

Key Discussion Points & Episode Breakdown

1. Historical Context and Introduction

• Host Adam Graham provides background on the various Saint radio adaptations:

  • The Saint debuted in Ireland in 1940, with subsequent series (Edgar Barrier, Brian Aherne) but no surviving episodes from that era.
  • The audition episode featuring Dennis Green is one of the few early examples that still exists.
  • Patricia Holm, Simon's companion, features heavily, though she vanished from later adaptations.

  Notable quote:

  “Many were delighted with the idea of hearing more of Vincent Price... But the Saint did not begin with Vincent Price in the title role.” – Adam Graham (03:10)

2. Author’s Introduction (Leslie Charteris)

• Leslie Charteris personally introduces The Saint:

  • Describes the character as humorous, idealistic, with Robin Hood tendencies.
  • Outcomes are meant to be fun for listeners—'poking the ungodly in the snoot'.

  Notable exchange:

  “Let’s say that he has a sense of humor… he never takes anything too seriously, not even himself.” – Leslie Charteris (05:44)

3. Plot of "The Miracle Tea Party"

Key Segments:

• [08:36] Commissioner’s Office:
  • Inspector Fernack, under pressure about an espionage case and nursing indigestion, is urged to try "Miracle Tea".
• [10:44] Drugstore Confusion:
  • Fernack buys Miracle Tea but is knocked out and unwittingly takes home a package of cash instead of tea.
  • Simon Templar discovers the switched package, containing $5,000 in cash, and begins investigating.
  • The package error triggers a flurry of criminal panic behind the pharmacy counter.
• [14:25] The Saint and Patricia Investigate:
  • Simon and Patricia trace the package back to Osbit’s Drugstore, confronting suspicious staff and unraveling the operation.
  • The Saint pretends to return the package, prompting the staff to scurry for their boss, Mr. Osbit.
• [18:30] Espionage Unmasked:
  • A complex code via radio commercials is discovered: testimonials broadcast codenames for espionage agents.
  • Packages of “tea” contain payment or instructions for spies.
  • The Saint uncovers the boss's dual identity as Baron Enesco (alias Osbit), running espionage via coded broadcasts and drugstore handoffs.
• [25:00] Downfall of the Villains:
  • The Saint arranges for police intervention and confronts Osbit/Baron Enesco, using clever radio improvisation and threats.
  • Police round up the conspirators during the next “Miracle Tea” broadcast.
  • Classic banter about the Saint getting results while the inspector gets credit.

Memorable Moment:

“Money flows like water, plans are handed over a drugstore couch, and packets of tea get spiked with thousand dollar bills.” – Simon Templar (24:55)

4. Preview of Upcoming Stories

• Charteris teases the next Saint adventure, "Saint Overboard," featuring sunken treasure and sabotage.

5. Host Commentary and Historical Notes ([30:23])

• Adam Graham evaluates the episode:

  • Notes its comedic tone and the inclusion of Patricia Holm, absent from later radio and TV versions.
  • Discussion of Saint series' evolution and different lead actors' approaches (harder tone with Edgar Barrier vs. lighter approach here).
  • Charteris’ own radio presence is described as less polished.

  Quote on Patricia Holm:

  “She began to fade away from the series during the 40s... You won’t find her in any of the Vincent Price episodes or Tom Conway, who would succeed Price. But we do get to hear her here.” – Adam Graham (30:43)

6. Archival Audio Clip: Edgar Barrier as the Saint ([32:11])

• Includes a rare clip from the 1945 "Simon Templer Foundation" episode, highlighting the contrasting, tougher portrayal of the Saint under Barrier.

7. Listener Feedback and Societal Notes ([36:15])

• Adam discusses changing attitudes toward pets and how mystery stories treat animal plot points.

• Thanks supporter Charlie (Patreon), and encourages listeners to interact and support the show.

  Notable philosophical insight:

  “I think our relationship to pets can also be colored by our disconnection from each other... we appreciate animals even more for being trustworthy, loving creatures.” – Adam Graham (38:50)

Episode Highlights & Notable Quotes

• Leslie Charteris on the Saint’s appeal:

  “The world is full of villains who ought to be jumped on. And I suppose most people would really like to take a share in the jumping. But... they don’t mind letting the Saint do it for them.” (05:59)

• The Saint’s wit:

  “Sorry I can’t go with you, Henry, but I’m late already. I’ve got a date with someone much more beautiful than you.” (12:41)

• Classic code-cracking moment:

  “The initials of the operatives. The big boss wants to get in touch with a given over the radio. Through the testimonial.” – Simon Templar (23:48)

Timestamps for Key Segments

• 01:50 – Host intro and historical commentary
• 04:42 – Leslie Charteris introduces The Saint
• 06:09 – Main radio drama begins
• 08:36 – Espionage assignment and indigestion troubles
• 10:44 – Miracle Tea package switch
• 14:25 – The Saint and Patricia arrive at Osbit's Drugstore
• 18:30 – Discovery of the Miracle Tea code system
• 25:00 – Unmasking Baron Enesco
• 30:23 – Adam Graham’s post-episode commentary
• 32:11 – Clip: Edgar Barrier’s version of The Saint
• 36:15 – Discussion of casting and tonal choices in Saint radio
• 38:30 – Listener feedback and Patreon thanks

Summary

This episode delivers a delightful blend of detective sleuthing, humor, and Golden Age radio nostalgia. The rare early rendition of The Saint, complete with authorial introduction, immerses listeners in an ingenious mystery using radio broadcasts as covers for espionage—neatly cracked by Simon Templar’s charm and brains. Adam Graham’s commentary places the episode in historical context, contrasting actors’ styles and changing media sensibilities, and invites engagement in the podcast’s vibrant community.

Recommended for:
Fans of classic detective stories, enthusiasts of Golden Age radio, and newcomers curious about the roots of The Saint and the evolution of mystery fiction on the airwaves.