The Saint: The Saint Goes Underground (EP4936)

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio
Episode: The Saint: The Saint Goes Underground (EP4936)
Host: Adam Graham
Air Date: March 23, 2026 (Original broadcast of drama: July 31, 1949)
Starring: Vincent Price as Simon Templar

Episode Overview

This episode dives into the beloved old-time radio detective series The Saint, featuring Vincent Price as Simon Templar. In "The Saint Goes Underground," Templar lands in the small New Mexico town of Headstone and quickly becomes embroiled in a mystery surrounding a supposed worthless silver mine, a series of threats, and murder. The show is classic Golden Age detective noir, with a blend of suspense, witty banter, and a twisting plot. Adam Graham provides insightful commentary after the drama, exploring the story, radio history, and audience feedback.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

1. Introduction & Set-Up (03:42–08:38)

• Simon Templar arrives in Headstone, NM, after a forced landing. He’s warned off by local Harry Kelly (06:00), who hints that the Saint’s presence isn’t welcome:

  “I doubt if Headstone would welcome the presence of the Saint.” — Harry Kelly (05:12)

• At a carnival, a fortune teller warns Templar to beware of a blonde woman, foreshadowing coming peril (06:21):

  “Beware of a blonde young woman. She will bring you death.” — Fortune Teller (06:21)

• Templar meets Ziggy, the colorful Brooklyn expat taxi driver, who also drops veiled warnings about town dangers.

2. The Mystery Unfolds (08:38–14:15)

• Betty Connolly, the 'blonde,' approaches Templar at dinner, seeking help after two attempts on her life:

  “Someone’s been trying to kill me.” — Betty Connolly (09:25)

• Betty explains her late father left her a worthless mine. Yet, someone wants her out of town—particularly a tough named Mike McCarthy.
• Ziggy, surprisingly helpful, shuttles them around as they dig into the town’s characters and the mine’s supposed worthlessness.

3. Murder & First Suspects (14:15–17:37)

• Visiting Harry Kelly, Templar and Betty find him dying from a gunshot wound. With his last breath, Kelly tries to say something—“Sin...” (15:04), which becomes a crucial clue.
• Rather than go to the sheriff, Templar checks with the local assayer, old man Matthews, who insists the mine is worthless:

  “About enough to put in your eye and still leave room for your finger.” — Matthews (15:57)

4. Into Danger – Showdown in the Mine (17:37–22:40)

• Templar and Betty confront Mike McCarthy, who threatens them but denies shooting at Betty or killing Kelly. Mike, armed with a revolver, is aggressive but evasive.
• Sensing something’s not right, Templar and Betty go to Betty’s mine, with Mike forcing his way along. A scuffle in the mine’s cable car leads to Mike’s fall to his apparent death.
• During the struggle, Templar notices “red dirt” on his shoulders—another link in the chain.

5. The Reveal—True Value & the Real Villain (22:40–26:14)

• Templar realizes the red dirt is cinnabar ore (red sulfide), source of mercury, a much more valuable find than silver.

  “Red sulfide is also cinnabar ore, from which we get mercury. And that is pretty valuable.” — Simon Templar (22:56)

• Kelly’s dying word (“Sin…”) was an attempt to say “cinnabar.”
• As Templar prepares to leave town, he pieces together the real plot: Ziggy the cab driver, not McCarthy, orchestrated the crimes, having discovered the cinnabar and killed Kelly with an automatic (not McCarthy’s revolver).
• Templar dramatically exposes Ziggy’s guilt:

  “You knew about the cinnabar ore in the mine. You carried some of it away to be tested in your cab. There was red dust in it, which you tried to explain with a corny gag.” — Simon Templar (25:01)

6. Resolution (26:14–24:44)

• Templar turns Ziggy and the murder weapon over to Betty and advises her to go to the sheriff.
• Light flirtation ends the adventure, with Templar promising to return someday.

  “Don’t worry, Betty. I’ll stop back someday to make sure that Venus is in conjunction with Mercury.” — Simon Templar (26:15)

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Host Commentary & Listener Insights

Adam Graham’s Reflections (28:24–36:57)

• Praises the episode’s pacing and plot twists: “Great pacing, snappy dialogue, and some very solid turns in the plot. The final reveal of Ziggy is a bit of a shocker, but there were clues throughout the story.”
• Clarifies confusion about Brooklyn cabbies: Ziggy here is not Louie, the Saint’s usual sidekick from later on—different actors (Tony Barrett vs. Lawrence Stopkin).
• Discusses Vincent Price’s legacy:

  “The Saint is probably the most unambiguously heroic role that Price played over radio or film and really allows him a chance to demonstrate some of his real-life charm and humor.” — Adam Graham (approx. 32:00)

• Explains ‘Robin Hood of Modern Crime’ label: In early books, the Saint took plunder from criminals, but radio adaptations removed this aspect, still calling him “Robin Hood” even though he doesn’t steal.

Notable Listener Comments

• Listeners note the shift in cultural and moral codes from book to radio, and the evolution of character tropes (detective sidekicks, animal companions).
• One listener remarks they never heard the Saint before but finds the show “very entertaining,” while host Adam explains why the “Robin Hood” aspect faded from adaptations.

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Memorable Moments & Notable Quotes

• Bantering with the fortune teller:

  “There are worse ways of dying, Grandmother.” — Simon Templar (06:37)

• Betty’s desperate plea for help:

  “Please don’t joke about it. I’m frightened.” — Betty Connolly (09:43)

• Templar’s dry wit under fire:

  “I wouldn’t be too sure. Unless that cable breaks before we get to the bottom.” — Simon Templar, trapped with McCarthy (21:26)

• Revealing the true villain:

  “You should have followed your own advice about minding your own business.” — Simon Templar, to Ziggy (25:51)

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Important Segment Timestamps

• [03:42] – Episode drama begins
• [08:38] – Betty seeks help from the Saint
• [14:15] – Harry Kelly is murdered; dying clue
• [20:08] – Trip to the Betty Mine
• [21:58] – Confrontation and fall in mine car
• [22:51] – The cinnabar revelation
• [25:00] – Ziggy’s guilt is exposed
• [28:24] – Host Adam Graham’s commentary
• [36:57] – Listener questions and closing notes

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Tone & Style

True to the show's original, noir-infused tone: witty, sharp, and laced with both suspense and playfulness. Adam Graham maintains an engaging, classic radio host style, mixing historical insights, humor, and warmth toward his audience.

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Summary prepared for listeners of The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio, Episode EP4936. For more Golden Age radio mysteries and commentary, visit GreatDetectives.net.

Transcript

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[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Foreign.

[Podcast Host (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 the podcast, please follow us. You using your favorite podcast software and I do want to let you know 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 by mailing a donation to Adam Graham, P.O. box 15913. That's P.O. box 15913, Boise, ID 83715. And you can also become one of our ongoing Patreon supporters for as little as $2 per month by going to patreon.greatdetectives.net and I do want to acknowledge Eric, who upgraded his membership from the rookie level of $2 or more per month to the Psalmist level of $4 or more per month. Thank you so much for your support, Eric. The first series of the Saint ran for a single year and was off the air from the summer of 1948 until 1949 when it returned, but this time over the Mutual Broadcasting System as a national program. Today's episode originally aired July 31, 1949 it was the fourth episode aired over Mutual, and the title is the Saint Goes Underground.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

The Adventures of the Saint, starring Vincent Price. The Saint. Based on characters created by Leslie Charterbus and known to millions from books, magazines and motion pictures, the Robin Hood of modern crime is now transcribed for radio. Starring Hollywood's brilliant and talented actor, Vincent Price as the Saint. Anything wrong, Captain? Nothing serious, Mr. Templer. Just coming down here for a check. Go on, just as soon as we can. Oh, and where is here? Headstone, New Mexico. Used to be a big silver mining town, but now it's just another little town, I guess. Although I did notice there's a carnival playing over on the edge of this emergency landing strip. Well, how long are we to enjoy the hospitality of Headstone? Oh, two or three hours. Long enough to see the town, have dinner, if you like. We're sorry to delay you, sir. Oh, it's all right, captain. I'm seldom bored in a strange town. Well, you better go back and fasten your seatbelt, Mr. Templer. We're coming down now. Right. I'll see you later. Well, good evening, Saint. You know me yet? I don't seem to recall your face, Harry Kelly. And you don't recall my face because we've never met. But I've seen many pictures of you and so I recognized you immediately. Well, that's very flattering. Tell me, Mr. Kelly, how can I get into town? You can find a cab on the other side of the carnival. Planning on staying long? Not at all. Should I? On the contrary. I was just going to suggest that. I doubt if Headstone would welcome the presence of the Saint. Just a friendly remark, you understand. Naturally. And if I may be permitted a friendly question. Why are you telling me this? Just an interest in the continued health of my fellow human. If you have any trouble in town, look me up. Anyone can tell you where to find me. I look, I look. The big show is just about to start. See little Fatima, the girl who shakes and shivers like a bowl full of jelly. Only one dime, 10 cents, the 10th part of a dollar. Hurry, hurry, hurry.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Learn what the stars hold for you. I read the past, the present and the future. Learn your fortune, young man.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

I already know it, Grandmother. I'm destined to meet a tall, dark and beautiful woman. I'll settle for nothing less.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

I see strange lines on your face, young man. I will tell your fortune without charge. Give me your hand. I see danger. Beware of a blonde young woman. She will bring you death.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

There are worse ways of dying, Grandmother.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

I see danger. Much danger for One with a halo about his head. Blood and death. Unless he travels. I see.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

I think I'm beginning to get the idea. You might tell your crystal ball that I'm beginning to be interested. Goodbye, Grandmother. And may the saints bless you. Taxi, mister? Oh, thank you. Say, do you suppose you can drive me somewhere that serves a good dinner?

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Sure.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

The Silver Dollar Hotel. Oh, fine. You know, I was just sitting there communing with nature about how many guys there are who blow their wad to watch some dame do a hula but won't spend a dime on a hack. Do I detect a touch of Brooklyn? How could you, miss? That's me chum Ziggy from Flatbush. I used to drive a hack in Brooklyn. Now I own the only hacking headstone. That's life, huh? You know, I ain't seen a Brooklyn Bridge for 10 years, since I come out here for my health. Like I always say, it's a smart man who knows when it's healthy to get out of town. Meaning what? Does everything have to mean something? Me, I mind my own business. I stay healthy. That's why I'm living in Headstone instead of Underwood. I see. But if you didn't mind your own business, I suppose you'd give me some advice about leaving Headstone, is that it? No, no. No advice, Ma. That's part of minding my own business. Headstone is a great place for strangers to visit if they paid up their insurance. Here you are, waiter. Very nice dinner. My check, please. No, no, no, thank you. Keep the change.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Hello.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Well, well. This is a surprising hotel. First a beautiful dinner, and then an even more beautiful blonde.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

May I sit down?

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

By all means, Miss Betty Connolly.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

You're Simon Templar.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

I should have worn my dark glasses. But now that the truth is out, you might as well call me Simon.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

All right, Simon.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Now, how did you know who I am? Now, don't tell me that you were just passing and recognized me.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Why? Ziggy told me that you were here. He owns and drives the taxi here in Headstone.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

I know I shouldn't look a gift blonde in the hair. But why did Ziggy tell you I was in here?

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Well, Ziggy knows that I need help, and he thought, well, that is, since you're the saint, you might help me.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Well, I have been known to help beautiful blondes on occasion. But tell me why you should need help, Betty.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Someone's been trying to kill me.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

There should be a law against that. Are you sure?

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

I've been shot at twice, and everybody here has been Very unfriendly. Except Ziggy and a man named Harry Kelly.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

I've noticed the unfriendliness in this town. But being unfriendly towards you is obviously an indication of insanity.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Oh, please don't joke about it. I'm frightened.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

All right. Now tell me about it.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Well, my father was known as Silver Slim Connolly. He lived here for years, but he sent me east to school when I was very young, and I didn't come back here until recently. My father died about a month ago.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Oh, I'm sorry.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

He was broke, and all he left me was his old silver mine. He called it the Betty Mine, after me.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

And I take it somebody wants the mine.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

No, no, the mine is completely worthless. There hasn't been any silver in it for years.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

But, my dear, you were shot at twice. Have you any idea who did the shooting?

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

No, but it might be the same man who told me to get out of town.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Oh, who?

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Mike McCarthy. Ziggy says he's an Eastern gangster who's been living out here for several months. Will you help me, Mr. Temp? Simon?

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Well, I've never been able to say no to a pretty girl. You mentioned a man named Harry Kelly before. Just who is he?

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

He knew my father. He's been very friendly to me, although he thought I ought to leave town too.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

I've met Mr. Kelly, and he intrigues me very much. I think we'll go see him.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

All right. Oh, just a minute. There was some red dust on your coat.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Thank you. Ziggy apparently doesn't get enough passengers to keep his cab dusted. Did you say Ziggy was parked outside in his chariot?

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

He was when I came in. Oh, there he is.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Yes, looking exactly as if he were back in Brooklyn. Ziggy. So, Chiffonia, thanks to your bird dogging, which I must admit in this case has done much to overcome any natural prejudice against cab drivers that I might have. Say, do you know where Harry Kelly lives? Sure. Let's go, then. Hey, don't you ever clean out this hack? What's all this dust? So, who knows? Maybe it was that redhead that hired me yesterday. So she had dandruff. Ziggy, you missed your calling. You're as funny as an undertaker. Well, now, Ziggy, I don't suppose you'd care to tell me why you warned me to get out of headstone. Got me all wrong, Saint. I wasn't warning you. I was just talking about myself. And I don't suppose you'd care to tell me why somebody Took potshots at Miss Connolly here and told her to get out of town, too. Me, I don't know nothing. Like I was telling you, Saint, I mind my own business. Maybe you stay ignorant that way, but it's healthier and I like it like that. In that case, why did you send Ms. Connolly in to see me? Well, like you can see, she's a pretty little pigeon. She needs to know some guy will help her. Now, it ain't no secret that the Saint goes around mixing in other people's business. So I tell her to see you. And who told you I was the Saint? I got eyes in my head, ain't I? Like I said, I used to hack in Brooklyn. I got around. What about this Mike McCarthy? Strictly smart money. Say a lot of guys have crossed his path once, if you get what I mean. What about Harry Kelly?

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Eh?

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Local stuff. Nice schmo, but no more. You're doing all right for a guy that doesn't know anything. You got me wrong. Palace Ziggy. He looks people over, but he don't see nothing. Except one guy is tough, another guy is a schmo. And maybe another guy is too nosed.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

I really don't think we should try to involve Ziggy, Simon. He's been very nice as it is.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

She's got something, pal. I ain't really equipped for it because the way you're headed, only a saint could feel at home. Well, here we are. St. Kelly lives on the first floor in the river. Oh, thanks. Wait for it, Ziggy. We've got a couple of other calls to make after this. Don't worry, I'll wait. If you get in any trouble, just yell. Then I'll drive over and tell the sheriff. I heard somebody yell for help. Thanks, pal. Come on, Betty. I hope our friend is in and that he talks.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Yes. Strange Harry telling you to come and see him if you had any trouble. If he had any connection with me, then why hasn't he said something to me?

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Well, sounded to me like a cautious man. Maybe he did know something, but didn't want to say anything unless he felt sure something was going to be done. Well, we'll soon know. Yes? Who is it? Simon Templar. Oh, the Saint. Just a minute.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Those shots were in that room.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

This is no time for conversation, darling. We're going in like this. Helly.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Oh, Simon.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Kelly. Kelly, this is Simon Templer, Saint. Yes, Kelly the Saint. Who shot you? The window Saint. Mine. Kelly. Well, Betty, he isn't going to tell us anything now. His killer did a very Thorough job. Window open. Must have shot from here. There's a shell on the fireplace.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

But what was he saying?

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Sounded like. Like sin. Come on, Betty. We're going to spread a little saintliness. And I think I know where to. But, Ziggy, didn't you hear anything? Well, I noticed some noise, but like I thought, I know. You mind your own business.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Are we going to the sheriff's side?

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

No, not yet. Ziggy, who's the assayer in this town? Old man Matthews. The office is closed now, but he lives right ahead there, that big white house. Okay, stop there. But, Simon, I'd like to satisfy a little curiosity about that mine of yours. I'll be right back. Back. You stay in here, Betty. What do you want, Mr. Matthews? Who else should be Here is my house, ain't it? What do you want? My name is Simon Templer. I wanted to ask you if you know the Connolly silver mine. I know every mine within 200 miles of here, young fellow. Hey, ain't that Betty Connolly sitting up there in that taxi? Yes. Then why can't she tell you about the mine? She owns it. Well, she has told me, but I just wanted to check about the possibility of a mistake. How much silver would you say there was in the Connolly mine? About enough to put in your eye and still leave room for your finger. Couldn't there be a hidden vein in it? Nope. There ain't been enough silver around here to make a dime for years and years. Could there be anything else of value in it? Mud and water, if you call that valuable. You sure? Of course I'm sure, young fella. I've been here man and boy for 70 years, and I ain't got no time to stand around answering darn fool questions. Goodbye. Well, goodbye. And, Betty, you may be right. Old man Matthew says the mine is worthless, too. So, Ziggy, take us to see Mike McCarthy. Are you sure you want to go there? Say, if I was you, I'd get on that plane. It's leaving pretty soon. No, Ziggy, I've decided not to leave Headstone just yet. Later you can drive me over to Albuquerque and I'll take the chief the rest of the way. Okay, Charm, it's your funeral.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Simon, please be careful.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Don't you worry, Betty. The halo where? His Benevolent association would be very upset if anything happened to me. I'll be right out. Yeah? I'm looking for Mike McCarthy. Well, you found him. It's my Boy Scout training. It never fails. My name is Simon Templar, the saint. I've been known by that name. So what? That's a very interesting question. I must try to think of an answer sometime. Meanwhile, I thought you might like to know that I heartily disapprove of your telling a certain Miss Betty Connolly that she ought to leave town. What's a girl to you? That's my business. I could make it mine. And if I do, your halo's gonna slip down and start choking you. Hmm. I thought bullets were more in your line. Mean? In what? Meaning the shots at Ms. Connolly in a little gunning job only a few minutes ago. I didn't do any gunning, but I'm liable to if you don't beat it. You sound so sure of yourself, Michael. That's because I got more in my hand than an itching palm. That's a very pretty gun, Mike. But I'm very much afraid that nothing will satisfy my curiosity short of knowing why you want to get Ms. Connolly out of town. I got answers for nosy guys. Six of them. I just stand right there. Stay away from that death saint, or I'll. Don't worry, Mike. I have no interest in the desk at all. But I do have an interest in Ms. Connolly. And now, Michael, I'll bid you adieu.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

What happened, Simon?

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Oh, not much, I'm afraid. The conversation was just getting interesting when Mike had a sudden attack of drops. That's funny. I never heard of him being sick. That's because you mind your own business, Ziggy. Like you told me, Betty, where is that silver mine of yours?

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

About two miles out of town.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Is there any place in town where we can rent a car?

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Why, I have a car. Why?

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

I feel a prospecting urge coming over me. Ziggy, take us to Ms. Connolly's car and then we can dispense with your valuable services. What's wrong with my cab? Nothing, Ziggy. It's just that I don't like people looking over my shoulder. Especially when I visit a lonely mine in the company of a beautiful girl.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Well, here's the Betty mine. Although I don't know why you want to see it.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Frankly, I don't know either. But as long as I'm here, I might as well take the 40 cent tour.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Certainly, sir. Right this way. This old cable car goes down into the mine. All we have to do is stand on the platform and pull the cable. It works with balanced weights.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Clever, these 49ers.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

How far down on the 40 cent tour? We give the exact distance. 354ft, 6 inches.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Thank you. And thank you for having electric lights in a mine that hasn't been worked for years.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Oh, the mine has its own battery. See, Here's a bulb on the car. Shall we go down?

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

What are we waiting for? Let's go. Maybe the lights will go out. Just hold it like this. I've been waiting for you two. Well, Michael McCarthy, I was wondering if we were going to have your company. And this time, wise guy, don't try anything. Don't tell me, Michael, that you're going prospecting with us. I'm riding down with you, but I'm coming back alone. Start the car down, Saint, but don't try no tricks. You have a suspicious mind, Mike. Well, here we go. Call out your floors, please. Mezzanine, ladies, underwear, galoshes and accessories. You'll be singing a different tune pretty soon, Saint. You both had your chance to leave town your way. Now you're gonna leave my way.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Oh, Simon, I'm sorry.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Oh, don't be, Betty. This is my first ride on an open cable car. It'll be your last. I wouldn't be too sure. Unless that cable breaks before we get to the bottom. What are you talking about, sucker? Lunch. It's a little crowded here for a one two, so I guess a one and a half will have to do. Oh, Simon, how terrible. Yeah, but it's all right.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Oh, Simon, it could have been you. He almost knocked you off the platform, too.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Padded shoulders in my coat. I. I felt them hit the side.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Look at your shoulders. They're covered with dirt from the sides of the shaft.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Yeah, it's red dirt. Wait a minute. Well, we can go back up. Betty, Mike doesn't need our help. And I don't need anybody to answer questions anymore.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Simon, I'll never understand you. Why did you look at the dirt on your coat and say you didn't need any more questions?

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Because that dirt was red sulfide, Betty. And it explains why Mike was so anxious to run you out of town.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Well, I don't see how. Red sulfide is used in paint, but that doesn't make it valuable.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Red sulfide is also cinnabar ore, from which we get mercury. And that is pretty valuable. Evidently, your mine is rich in cinnabar, so it's worth a lot of money, Betty.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Oh, then that was what Kelly was trying to tell us when he said sin.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Yes, he was trying to say cinnabar.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

How can I ever thank you, Simon?

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Well, I. I have a couple of ideas on the subject. But now people would say I was chasing you for your money. So I guess you can just see me off on the train. We'll stop in town and have Ziggy drive us to Albuquerque.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Oh, but I'll drive you now.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

I insist on taking a cab. I don't want you coming back alone. I may want to change my mind about fortune hunting. Like I said, Saint, I'm glad to see you leaving. This town is just funny about strangers. But hadn't you ought to take Ms. Conley with you? But she doesn't have to go now, Ziggy. And besides, she's rich. She's what?

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Yes, Ziggy. We found out that Dad's mine is valuable after all. You.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

You mean you found silver in it?

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

No, mercury.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Oh, the stuff they put into Mamish. That's the stuff, Ziggy. But it's used for a lot of other things, particularly in wartime. And it's worth a lot of money. Well, what do you know? So that's why Mike was trying to make you leave. That's it. Well, did you stop and tell his ship?

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

We didn't have time. But I'll see him when we go back.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

That's pretty nice for you, ain't it, buddy? Oh, here we are. Just in time, too. The chief's in order. Very nice timing, Ziggy. Thanks, Betty, for keeping my forced visit to Headstone from being dull.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Oh, Simon. Well, why don't you stay in Headstone? I won't know how to run the mine or what to do with the money or anything.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

You'll learn. Betty, you know what to do when you get back to.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Yes, but will the sheriff believe me? I mean, about Mike McCarthy killing Harry Kelly?

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

I don't think he will, since Mike didn't kill Kelly. But Kelly was shot with an automatic. Ejected a shell on the fireplace, remember? But Mike McCarthy carried a revolver. You saw it.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Yes, but will the sheriff.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

The sheriff will believe when you show him that the gun that killed Kelly is in Ziggy's pocket. What? What are you talking about? You knew about the cinnabar ore in the mine. You carried some of it away to be tested in your cab. There was red dust in it, which you tried to explain with a corny gag. You're crazy. Harry. Kelly had an idea what was going on, so you slipped around to the back while we were at the front door and killed him. All right, wise guy. You're so smart. What about Mike? Mike was working for you.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

But, Simon, Ziggy told me that you were in town.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Sure. He couldn't be sure that I wasn't. Here to break up his little scheme. So the smartest thing to do was to get us together so he could watch both of us. He thought I would use his cab as I did, and it would be easy. But he slipped up when he sent Mike out to the mine ahead of us. Ziggy was the only one who knew where we were going. Okay, pal, you asked for it.

[Podcast Host (Adam Graham)]

I'm.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Sweetheart, like you said, pal, you should have followed your own advice about minding your own business. What? Yep. He's all yours, Betty. The gun that killed Kelly is now on the seat beside him. All you have to do is turn the body and the gun over to the sheriff, and from there on in, he'll mind Ziggy's business for him.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

But, Simon.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Don't worry, Betty. I'll stop back someday to make sure that Venus is in conjunction with Mercury. You have just heard another adventure of the Saint, the Robin Hood of modern crime. Now here is our star, Vincent Price. Ladies and gentlemen, how many times there have been men just like Ziggy led into crime by insatiable greed, forgetting the simplest truth, so aptly phrased by John Dryden. Murder may pass unpunished for a time, but hardy justice will o' ertake the crime. This is Vincent Price extending a personal invitation to all of you to join us again next week at this same time for another adventure of the Saint. Good night. Tonight's script of the Saint was written by Michael Cramoy. Our cast included Harry Bartel, Barney Phillips, Colleen Collins, Fred Howard and Tony Barrett. The music was composed and conducted by Harry Zimmerman. The Saint is a James L. Safier Agency production and was transcribed and directed by Thomas A. McEvitty. Don't forget that the Saint comic books are on sale at all newsstands. Your announcer, Merrill Ross. This is the Mutual Broadcasting.

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[Podcast Host (Adam Graham)]

Welcome back. I really enjoy this episode. It's short, but they get so much in there. The title is great. It does sound like a charterist short short story. Even though it's Original to radio and again, great pacing, snappy dialogue, and some very solid turns in the plot. The final reveal of Ziggy is a bit of a shocker, but there were clues throughout the story. Now, the evil Brooklyn cabbie might confuse some who listen to the saints long term because the Saint acquires a recurring sidekick who is a Brooklyn cabbie named Louie. And while their voices are similar in the performance, Louie is played by Lawrence Stopkin, whereas Ziggy was played by Tony Barrett. Which might also be familiar to those of you who listen to our Volume one or Volume two, two feeds and heard Tony Barrett playing Mark Donovan, a Brooklyn cabbie who was a sidekick to Frank Race. Now, I do want to talk a little bit about Vincent Price, in some ways to go into great detail about Vincent Price and his legacy, because he's probably one of the better known actors of his era today, someone whose legacy in the horror genre makes him recognizable to many people who wouldn't know who I was talking about if you talk about the best known actors of the era. But it is fair to say that Price was not yet that figure. While he had done a horror movie, his acting tended to run a gamut of different films and roles as a character actor, often playing characters whose morality could be ambiguous at best. He played Richelieu in the Three Musketeers. He had a role as a murder suspect in Laura and could often be a film noir villain, and of course did some comedies as well. His radio work in the era reflected the same sort of variety, although there were some hints of the sort of roles he would become known for, such as some of his escape and suspense performances, particularly present tense and Three Skeleton Key and later Pit in the Pendulum. The saying is somewhat noteworthy as it's pretty probably the most unambiguously heroic role that Pross played over radio or film and really allows him a chance to demonstrate some of his real life charm and humor. Listener comments and feedback now. And we go over to Spotify where we had a comment regarding the Miracle Tea Party and we have an interesting answer regarding the date. Dr. Whodunit. Right. So this episode has the announcer saying, Leslie C.H. charter is 33. He was born in 1907, which makes this episode 1940. But I'm guessing that isn't what you were talking about in the beginning. Well, I actually was talking about the fact that there was a conflict between different sources on the program that put the date of the show as 1940 and others that put it as 1944. I really didn't know why There was that difference. But I think you give a good reason why this was likely 1940, and I'm not certain why it wasn't picked up. The sort of storytelling in the Saint was very much in Vogue in 1940, as well as man and woman detective teams with the success of the Thin Man. And the idea of directly adapting the author's stories would also have been a lot more popular, particularly with the success of Sherlock Holmes. With Bruce and Rathbone having been successful over radio. I don't know why some would put it in 1944, except. Except it does still have the same sort of musical feel as what would end up coming to air so many years later. But yeah, that does answer that question. Definitely 1940, based on the age Harrison writes. I agree with your point about pet culture and the way it has changed. It's another reason old time radio fascinates me. Not only is it amusing to hear things like the Age of which was considered old, but there are some surprising insights into societal behavior that you might not have given much thought to, since it seems so natural to us today, like how we connect with pets. Never listen to the Saint, but it seems very entertaining. I just don't quite see the Robin Hood aspect in the addition. And the lack of a Robin Hood aspect is a really interesting thing about the Saint. In the books which started being released in 1928, the saint often plundered criminals. Now, his actions would often lead to criminals either going to jail or getting killed, but the Saint had a very strong interest in plundering the riches of those he termed, quote, unquote, the ungodly. So the Saint's path to dealing with a criminal or crime would look very different than your traditional detective, because first he wanted to make them pay, quite literally, and the money would go either to someone who they had wronged or it would go to charity or some other people in need, with a little bit generally going in the direction of Simon Templar and his men. When you get into some of the later films as well as the radio series, it is not really viewed socially or morally correct to have a hero who engages in thievery. So, at least in the existing episodes, Saint doesn't engage in any. Though I should say that that one excerpt we played a mystery playhouse was of a story where Simon extorted a bunch of money from these various criminal elements. But that was during the war, and post war was kind of a different era. Nevertheless, even though he was not morally allowed to engage in thievery, the radio program still kept the title for him as the Robin Hood of modern crime, even though it did not fit at all. That clears that up. Alright, well now it is time to thank our Patreon Supporter of the day. And I want to thank Heidi, patreon supporter since March 2018, currently supporting the podcast at the Showmas level of $4 or more per month. Thanks so much for your support Heidi and that will do it for today. If you're enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software and be sure to rate and review the podcast wherever you download it from. We will be back next Monday with another episode of the Saint, but join us back here tomorrow for the Big story where talked with the Sergeant and

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

thought I was muddled before. Now I'm absolutely certain gets more interesting now. It's testimony of Nellie Swenson, waitress, opposing corner father to the fact Ms. Swenson, that you were asked at the preliminary hearing, can you tell who was standing in the doorway with the gun?

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Yes, sir.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

What did you say?

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

I said I couldn't tell exactly because you see, he had his coat collar up and his hat down and I didn't watch his face, I watched his gun.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

That's what you said at the preliminary hearing some weeks ago. Now, what did you testify to a few minutes ago?

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

I can't exactly remember.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

I shall refresh your memory. You said, quote, the man I saw was Clem Grayson. Is that correct?

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Yes, sir.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

How do you explain your revamping your testimony?

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

I can't.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

During the recess a few minutes ago, did you talk to the prosecutor in this case?

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Yes, I did.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Louder please.

[Character Actress (Betty Connolly and others)]

Yes, I did.

[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

Will you please tell the court what it was you talked to the prosecutor about? I object. The court sustained the objection on the grounds that the content of the conversation was immaterial. Immaterial. It's the most material thing on earth. This is fantastic.

[Podcast Host (Adam Graham)]

I hope you'll be with us then. In the meantime, send your comment to box13reatetectives.net Follow us on Twitter at radiodetectives and check us out on Instagram. Instagram.com greatdetectives from Boise, Idaho, this is your host, Adam Graham, signing off.

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[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

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[Podcast Host (Adam Graham)]

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[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

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[Podcast Host (Adam Graham)]

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[Narrator/Actor (Vincent Price as Simon Templar)]

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