Yours Truly Johnny Dollar: The Delectable Damsel Matter (EP4815)

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio
Episode: Yours Truly Johnny Dollar: The Delectable Damsel Matter (EP4815)
Date: October 3, 2025
Host: Adam Graham

Overview

This episode features a broadcast of the classic radio drama “Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar,” specifically the episode titled “The Delectable Damsel Matter” (originally aired June 15, 1958). Adam Graham frames the story and provides listener commentary, continuing his tradition of celebrating old-time radio detective fiction and engaging with the audience’s nostalgia for post-war mystery thrillers. “The Delectable Damsel Matter” sees insurance investigator Johnny Dollar jetting to the California coast, then taking to the sea to investigate the disappearance of a renowned emerald—the Cape Star—belonging to a charming and eccentric heiress.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

1. Introduction & Set-Up (01:29–02:15)

• Adam Graham introduces the episode from Boise, Idaho.
• He encourages listeners to follow the podcast and plugs an affiliate link (01:29–02:15).

Episode Begins (02:15)

• Johnny Dollar receives a call from insurance colleague Rip Single, who asks Johnny to travel to Los Angeles.
• Rip’s ex-girlfriend, Hildy Ransom, heiress and socialite, reports her valuable emerald—a brooch called the Cape Star—missing.

Rip Single: “Did you ever hear of the Cape Star? Well, it's an emerald as big as a robin’s egg…a brooch worth nearly 300,000 clams. This Hildegard Ransom owns it…or did.” (05:46)

• Rip admits he doesn’t want to meet Hildy himself, due to her “crazy antics,” so he sends Johnny in his place.

2. The Jet-Set Life & Initial Suspicions (06:53–08:17)

• Rip picks up Johnny at the airport, showing off his luxurious lifestyle—even a car phone, a rarity at the time.

Johnny Dollar: “When I get rich enough to put a mobile phone in my car…”
Rip Single: “It doesn’t cost much.” (07:01)

• Hildy calls mid-trip, threatening to cancel all her insurance policies if Rip doesn’t send someone promptly.
• Johnny agrees to go to her, discovering that the rendezvous will be on Hildy’s 165-foot yacht, currently off the California coast.

3. Out to Sea: The Investigation Begins (08:17–13:38)

• Rip reveals Hildy’s thrill-seeking habits, vast wealth, and wanderlust.
• Hildy’s yacht, "Hildemara," is anchored many miles offshore; Johnny must travel there via one of her cruisers.
• Hildy is painted as magnetic but unpredictable, possibly orchestrating elaborate stunts for attention or amusement.

Rip Single: “She has the money, she has the time. She’s done everything under the sun that normal people do. So now she keeps looking for the unusual. Anything for a thrill.” (11:10)

4. Meeting Hildy: Eccentric Heiress in Action (13:28–14:48)

• Johnny is welcomed by Hildy — glamorous, witty, and flirting with him immediately.

Hildy Ransom: “You’re even better looking than I’d heard. Are you as much of a wolf as Rip says you are?” (14:21)
Johnny Dollar: “Oh, well, now, wait a minute.”
Hildy: “Okay, I’ll find out for myself…might be fun finding out.” (14:38)

• Hildy recounts dangerous adventures: being shot at off Formosa (Taiwan), seeking excitement in Communist China.
• Johnny notes a suspicious crew member aboard, recognizing him as potentially dangerous from his past.

5. The Missing Emerald Reappears (18:16–19:36)

• Johnny and Hildy discuss the possibility someone aboard took the Cape Star. Suddenly, Hildy discovers the emerald back in its drawer—where she swore it had not been before.

Hildy Ransom: "That drawer where I kept it. I'm sure I left that closed… Johnny, look… It's here. The Cape Star. It's back." (18:36–18:54)

• Johnny questions if this is a hoax, but Hildy insists it truly was missing.

6. Action Aboard: Crew Suspicion and a Speedboat Chase (20:00–23:10)

• A crewman, McCarty, is reported sick and sent ashore on the cruiser, but Johnny suspects he’s the culprit.
• Johnny and the first mate pursue the cruiser on a speedboat; a gunfight ensues.
• Johnny uses a flare gun to incapacitate McCarty, preventing his escape.

7. Resolution and Revelations (22:36–23:33)

• McCarty is revealed as a smuggler, attempting to use the missing brooch as a diversion while escaping with narcotics picked up in China.

Hildy Ransom: “Do you know what he was doing, Johnny? That man who called himself McCarty… Smuggling narcotics that he picked up in China.” (22:36)

• Hildy gleefully suggests they cruise and have fun for three days before port; Johnny wryly notes the unpredictability of his job.

8. Adam Graham’s After-Show Commentary (27:37–31:53)

• Adam reflects on the depiction of technology (car phones) in the 1950s radio drama.
• Comments on Rip’s ostentatious lifestyle.
• Interacts with listener comments—highlighting episodes, serial storytelling, and nostalgia for old radio promotions (Superman pins, etc.).
• Thanks a Patreon supporter and wraps up with the next episode’s teaser.

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Notable Quotes & Moments

• Rip on Hildy’s Antics: “She flooded half of the Bel Air estates… She didn’t like a fire plug, so she had it dynamited, just for laughs.” (06:24)
• Hildy’s Threat: “I’ll cancel every policy I have with you. The houses, the cars, this old tub, everything.” (07:36)
• Flirtation:
  Hildy: “You’re even better looking than I’d heard. Are you as much of a wolf as Rip says you are?” (14:21)
• Action Sequence:
  Johnny: “You got a gun to answer him?”
  First Mate: “No. There’s a flare pistol — use it for shooting up the distress flares.” (20:58–21:10)
• Resolution:
  Hildy: “He knew he’d never get through customs…He stole the Cape Star just long enough to make sure the cruiser would come out to us.” (22:47)
• Johnny’s Wry Epilogue: “You never know what you’re going to get into when you take on even the most routine kind of case.” (23:33)

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Key Episode Timestamps

• 01:29: Adam Graham’s introduction and sponsor plug
• 02:15: Johnny Dollar called to L.A. by Rip Single
• 06:53: Hildy’s threat and phone call from her yacht
• 08:17: Plans made to reach Hildy via private cruiser and plane
• 13:28: Johnny arrives aboard the yacht; meets Hildy
• 14:21–14:38: Hildy’s playful flirting; Johnny on guard
• 18:36–18:54: Cape Star emerald reappears
• 20:00–22:10: The chase and confrontation with McCarty
• 22:47–23:33: Case wrapped up; Hildy’s final invitation; Johnny’s reflection
• 27:37: Adam Graham’s post-episode commentary
• 31:53: Miscellaneous radio promos and future episode teasers

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Tone & Style

• Witty, playful, and slightly sardonic: Both Johnny Dollar and Hildy Ransom embody a flirtatious, worldly-wise banter, reminiscent of screwball comedy mixed with classic noir.
• Thrilling, suspenseful adventure: From international yachting escapades to speedboat gunfights, the episode mixes luxury with real danger.
• Self-aware nostalgia: Adam Graham’s commentary and listeners’ feedback invoke fondness for both the technical and storytelling quirks of old radio mysteries.

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Listener Takeaways

• The deception around the missing jewel is more than a socialite’s whim: it covers a larger smuggling operation, with real stakes for everyone aboard.
• Johnny Dollar’s travels remind listeners that beneath glamorous surfaces, danger and intrigue lurk—be wary even when the case (and the client) appears trivial.
• The show packs adventure, humor, and classic detective storytelling with a lively, charismatic cast and era-appropriate wit.

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Recommended for: Fans of old-time radio, detective stories, and anyone who loves a blend of high society glamour, banter, and suspenseful, swiftly moving plots.

Next Up: The Virtuous Mobster Matter. Tune in for another blend of intrigue and entertainment!

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Transcript

[Johnny Dollar]

Limu Gamu and Doug Limu and I always tell you to customize your car insurance and save hundreds with Liberty Mutual. But now we want you to feel it. Cue the emu music. Limu. Save yourself money today.

[Adam Graham]

Increase your wealth.

[Hildy Ransom]

Customize and save.

[Johnny Dollar]

We save. That may have been too much feeling. Only pay for what you [e-mail] Liberty Liberty Liberty Liberty Savings Fairy Unwritten by Liberty Mutual Insurance Company and affiliates Excludes Massachusetts. What do you think makes the perfect snack? Hmm, it's gotta be when I'm really craving it and it's convenient. Could you be more specific? When it's cravinient. Okay. Like a freshly baked cookie made with real butter, available right down the street at am, pm Or a savory breakfast sandwich I can grab in just a second at a.m. pM.

[Adam Graham]

I'm seeing a pattern here. Well, yeah, we're talking about what I.

[Johnny Dollar]

Crave, which is anything from am, pm. What more could you want? Stop by AMPM where the snacks and drinks are perfectly craveable and convenient. That's cravenience. Am pm. Too much. Good stuff.

[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 yours truly, Johnny Dollar. But first, I want to encourage you. If you're enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software. And as you're making travel plans, remember johnnydoller air.com johnnydoller air.com is a Priceline affiliate link. So part of your purchase supports the Great Detectives of Old Time Radio at no additional cost to you. But now, from June 15, 1958, here is the delectable damsel matter.

[Johnny Dollar]

From Hollywood. It's time now for Johnny Duller, Ralph Singel, Johnny and Mono Guarantee Insurance Company. Oh, hi, Rip. How's Hollywood's most eligible bachelor? Listen, do you know who Hildegard Ransom is? Are you kidding? That gal's coming out party hit the society column of every newspaper in the country. Yeah, I know. So how'd you like to have a date with her? Hey, wait a minute. Weren't you dating the luscious Hildy Ransom a while back? Yeah, I was, but I threw her over. Oh, Rip, you just don't appreciate the finer things of life. Oh, no? Well, if you had to put up with some of her wild ideas or crazy antics, so what? What difference does it make? All that beauty, all that money. Look, I ask you, you want a date with her at company expense? Well, why not? Then grab the first plane you can and fly on out here. Okay, I'm on my. What's the catch, Rip? I'll meet you at the Los Angeles International Airport. Yeah, fine. But suppose you give me some idea. H. Bob Bailey in the exciting adventures of the man with the action packed expense account. America's fabulous freelance insurance investigator. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Expense account submitted by Special Investigator Johnny Dollar to the Mono Guarantee Insurance Company, Los Angeles office. Following of expenses incurred during my investigation of the delectable damsel matter. Expense account at a one $107 even. Hartford to New York and a DC7 mainliner to Los Angeles. Single is a good name for Rip. He has a knack for meeting wealthy, important people, particularly women. Yeah, they practically swoon under his spell. And he sells him insurance. I'm not sure I approve his love him and lead him tactics. But it's no wonder he knew Hildy Ransom, heiress to a couple of million bucks. Hi, Johnny. But he hadn't told me why he wanted me to meet her. And I was sure it wasn't just for a date. Daydreaming, Johnny, huh? Your baggage is right here on the rack. Come on, I'll help you put in the car and we'll take off. Oh, hi, Rip. Sure. Where's the car? Over here in the parking lot. Hey, what were you dreaming about there at the luggage pickup? Oh, Hildegard Ransom? Who else? And I take it your little romance with her, the one that hit the headlines a while back, is all over, huh? Oh, sure, sure. But I got her insurance business, all of it. And Johnny, if I had to, I could live off the premiums of that one account alone. Then it must be pretty big, because if I remember the way you live, fancy clothes, fancy apartment. Well, you can't take it with you, boy. Besides, it's all good for my business. Here we are. Hey, you like this little old truck? The little old truck was a brand new Eldorado Biarritz. Special paint job, gold fittings instead of chrome. Every accessory you can think of, including a bar in the back seat. Yep, Playboy party boy Riff, Single hadn't changed a bit. And if you make contacts, make them right where the money is. And if it's a pretty girl that has the money and you can charm her into your arms, Baby, you made a sale. Okay, okay. Now, tell me, Rip. Johnny. Did you ever hear of the Cape Star? What was that? Well, it's an emerald as big as a robin's egg in a 14 carat mounting, loaded with diamonds and rubies a brooch value nearly 300,000 clams. This Hildegard Ransom owns it.

[Hildy Ransom]

Uh huh.

[Johnny Dollar]

Or did. How'd she lose it? Well, all I know is that she called me and she said it was missing and that she wants me to go out and have a look. Out where? Well, I don't want that wacky dame to get her hands on me again. Now you heard of some her crazy escapades like the time she flooded half of the Bel Air estates. What? Well, she didn't like the looks of a fire plug on her five acres up there so she had the gardener plant some dynamite under it. Oh brother, I've got to do something for laughs she said. The old story of the idle rich with too much time on her hands, huh? Yeah, that's right. That kind of stuff can lead to trouble sometimes. Where is she? Rep belair, did you say? Well, when she's home, which isn't often. Right now I think it. What the Sam Hill? Oh sure, sure. All the comforts of home here now.

[Hildy Ransom]

Hello, RHS 1121?

[Johnny Dollar]

That's right.

[Hildy Ransom]

Operator, One moment please. I have a call for you.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh thanks. Oh brother, when I get rich enough to put a mobile phone in my car it doesn't cost much. As a matter of fact single.

[Hildy Ransom]

Are you coming out here to see me or aren't you?

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, well now Hildy, the fifth time I've called.

[Hildy Ransom]

And Rip, if you don't do something about my loss of the Cape Star, can you call the police? Well sure, of course, I might have known you would. So they'll tell the papers more publicity for you and that lousy insurance business.

[Johnny Dollar]

But Hildy, I always notify the police. You know what that means?

[Hildy Ransom]

It means reporters, photographers, cops, half the town falling all over themselves when I get in.

[Johnny Dollar]

Now look Hildy, so if you are.

[Hildy Ransom]

Somebody else, and I don't mean the cops, if you don't get out.

[Johnny Dollar]

You know what I'll do?

[Hildy Ransom]

I'll cancel every policy I have with you.

[Johnny Dollar]

My own.

[Hildy Ransom]

The houses, the cars, this old tub, everything.

[Johnny Dollar]

Here, will you take this, Johnny? Yeah, sure. Hello. Hello.

[Hildy Ransom]

Didn't you hear what I said?

[Johnny Dollar]

Look miss. What?

[Hildy Ransom]

Who's that?

[Johnny Dollar]

Johnny Dollar.

[Hildy Ransom]

Johnny. So we got you. Well now we'll have some action. Cuz you'll come out here right away, won't you?

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, that depends.

[Hildy Ransom]

I don't know what to do. Cape Star, Emerald gone and Rip so busy he can't leave his office. Johnny, you have to come, please.

[Johnny Dollar]

Well look.

[Hildy Ransom]

Oh, I knew you would, honey. And I'll be waiting for you. Rip can tell you how to get here.

[Johnny Dollar]

Bye. Yeah, don't be fooled, Johnny. She really is that charming when she wants to be. Okay, Rip, take me to her. Not quite. That old tub she mentioned is her 165 foot diesel yacht. What? And near as I can guess, is about four score and 70 miles offshore. You expect me to walk? Oh, she also has a cruiser, a 58 footer, parked down at Balboa. You can go in that. Then you'd better swing around, brother. We're driving north. Oh, there's a private airport up here off Sepulveda Boulevard where I keep my plane. Your own plane? Sure. Holy smoke. Act Two of yours truly, Johnny Dollar. In a moment, our flag now numbers 50 stars and behind each star there stands yet another flag representing one of the 50 states. Mississippi's state flag is a horizontal tricolor, blue, white and red. In the upper corner on a field of red is the Blue Cross of St Andrew, bearing 13 white stars for the original states of the Union. This cross, made in the form of an X or saltier, was adopted from the national flag of Scotland. It is also found on the state flags of Georgia and Alabama, Mississippi's state flag. The flag of the 20th state to enter the Union was adopted on February 7, 1894. And now, Act 2 of yours truly, Johnny Dollar and the Delectable Damsel. During the ride from Los Angeles to Balboa and Rip Single's private plane, he admitted to me that he hadn't made all his money in the insurance business. Seems a rich uncle had conveniently died some years before. Lucky stiff. A Rip. I mean. Look, all I know, Johnny, is that Hildy took the Cape Star emerald along with her on this yachting trip and now it's gone. Yeah. How much of a trip? Oh, Lord knows where she's been. She said she might end up in China or the Philippines. Most anywhere. You see, she has the money, she has the time. She's done everything under the sun that normal people do. So now she keeps looking for the unusual. Anything for a thrill. Yeah. Well, when did she discover the stone was missing? She radioed to me today from out on the high seas? Yeah. She said she was certain she had it the day before because she worn it. And then when she went to look for it, it was gone. Some member of the crew, do you suppose? I don't know. Maybe she dropped it overboard. You mean purposely to collect the insurance. Who knows? Oh, but if she has so much money, who knows? Maybe she hasn't lost it at all. She just wants company. Oh, look, there's Newport in Balboa down below. I'll circle Hildy's little summer house before we land. Hildy Ransom's little summer house turned out to be a mansion right on the waterfront. And tied up to the long dock was not only the cruiser, but a snappy little speedboat, a small sailboat and a couple of outboards. All very nice. Not so the skipper of the cruiser. No, my orders the last time I spoke to the hill tomorrow were to take you out to her, Mr. Single, nobody else. Look, we just talked to Ms. Ransom by radio and she wants you to take Mr. Dollar on there. And I tell you my last daughter's. Well, forget your last daughter. Hey, wait a minute, please, Skipper, have you got a radio on this cruiser? Of course. All right then, make contact with the Hildamora. Find out for yourself. Okay, I'll do it at the same time you can get a position. Okay, we'll see. Well, give dear Hilda love or whatever else you can think of, anything that'll keep her from switching her insurance to somebody else. You are a louse, aren't you? You don't like me dead. No. Were you ever really serious with her, Rip? Yeah, sure, but I'm just not the marrying kind. So, Johnny, the field is clear for you. Ah, and if you want to latch onto a few million bucks, she's really mighty sweet. Attractive gal. Well, let me know how you make out, Johnny. And please find that emerald. I beg your pardon, sir. Yeah, we're ready to sail whenever the gentleman's ready. Okay, skipper, let's go. The cruiser turned out to be a dilly luxury from stem to stern. And the trip out to the Hill to Morrow took much longer than I expected. In spite of the powerful engines that sent us through the water at over 18 knots, it was well after dawn the next morning. We hove to alongside the hill to morrow. And that 165 foot diesel yacht made the cruiser look like a broken down rowboat. As for Hildy Ransom, 5 foot 6 or 7, she was blonde and she was beautiful with quick blue eyes that had fun and laughter sparkling in them. And a figure.

[Hildy Ransom]

Well, come on, Johnny, come aboard. And Marty, you keep the cruiser around in case Mr. Daughter wants to go ashore again, buy some material. Hi, Johnny. Welcome aboard the old tub.

[Johnny Dollar]

You call this floating palace a tub?

[Hildy Ransom]

Well, after the holes that got shot into it, it's a wonder we're still afloat. You've been shot at off Formosa in the China coast. We Had a ball for a while. I thought some of the red aircraft were going to strafe us one night.

[Johnny Dollar]

Holy.

[Hildy Ransom]

But it got too dark for them and the captain, the old fuddy duddy turned off all our running lights and we headed out to sea again.

[Johnny Dollar]

What under the sun were you doing off the China coast?

[Hildy Ransom]

Oh, just finding out what goes on in the world. You know what I really wanted to do? Why pay a visit to Joe Enlai, the red general? Why not? But they wouldn't let us ashore long enough without a lot of fuss and bother. So now let's go into my quarters and talk about the Cape Stock.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yeah, okay.

[Hildy Ransom]

I could kill that Rip Single for not coming out here, but I'm so glad you could. You're even better looking than I'd heard. Ah. Are you as much of a wolf as Rip says you are?

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, well, now, wait a minute.

[Hildy Ransom]

Okay, I'll find out for myself. Might be fun finding out. Johnny.

[Johnny Dollar]

For a minute I began to wonder. Baby Rip wasn't the only one in this affair who turned on the charge to further his own ends. Hildy Ransom, let's face it, was a wealthy ne' er do well who'd do anything for a thrill. Couple her with a character like Rip. Single? Yeah, I wondered. But then walking along the deck with her, I saw something that suddenly changed my mind. One of the crew who ducked into a doorway when he spotted me. Who? I wasn't sure. But I had a sudden mental image of his eyes somewhere in the past looking at me over the sights of a gun. Act three of yours truly, Johnny Dollar. In a moment, let me ask you a question. What is the most important thing to a fighting man? His gun. You may answer. You might also answer the code of conduct of the men of the Armed forces of the United States. Because you know, it is something just as necessary to the fighting man as his gun. And just as he keeps his gun cleaned in oil because his life may depend on it, so does he keep ever forward in his mind his code of conduct because his life and honor depend on it. Part of the code reads, quote, I will never surrender of my own free will. If in command, I will never surrender my men while they still have means to resist. During the bloody and costly campaign on the island of Saipan In World War II, the code of the soldier meant something to the men and to one man in particular. Essentially a quiet, peace loving man. Sergeant Thomas A. Baker, while with the 105th Infantry Regiment of the United States army, was up against it one night in 1944. When the enemy launched an attack which called for them to die in honor, Sergeant Baker proved it could work both ways. The enemy attack fell like a saber blow and continually hurled Baker's company back with each savage thrust. During the ensuing days of action, Baker wiped out an enemy position with a bazooka, killed 14 of the enemy in a machine gun ambush using only his M1 rifle and a couple of grenades, and then killed six more a little farther on. In a last ditch stand one night, the company dug in to withstand the next furious assault. In the dark, as the enemy rolled over them in a thunderous attack of firepower, Sergeant Baker suffered a mangled leg from a grenade. Shooting and clubbing the enemy with his rifle, he dragged himself out of the foxhole. Three of his men tried to give him aid. Two of them were shot from the third man. Baker got a cigarette and a pistol and told him to leave. As the rest of the company moved back, Baker propped himself against a telephone pole, calmly puffed on his cigarette and blazed away with his automatic. He was later found in that position with eight of the enemy dead around him, one for each shot and the empty gun in his lifeless hand. Sergeant Baker didn't consider the Medal of Honor he might get. He considered the job that had to be done. His honor was at stake. Surrender wasn't in his code of conduct. And now, act three of yours truly, Johnny Dollar and the Delectable Damsel.

[Hildy Ransom]

I suppose I could have waited till we got in to report the loss of the emerald, but. Sit down, Johnny, and I'll have some drinks brought in.

[Johnny Dollar]

Okay, thanks.

[Hildy Ransom]

Now, listen, because of where we've been on this trip, we'll have to go through customs and there'll be the police and the reporters and so on. And whoever took the Cape Star might have a chance to.

[Johnny Dollar]

What's the matter?

[Hildy Ransom]

That drawer where I kept it. I'm sure I left that closed after I'd hunted for it and. Excuse me. Johnny.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yeah?

[Hildy Ransom]

Look. Look, it's here. The Cape Star. It's back.

[Johnny Dollar]

You're sure?

[Hildy Ransom]

Yes, of course. Here, look at it.

[Johnny Dollar]

And you're sure it wasn't there before?

[Hildy Ransom]

Of course I am. I turned this cabin upside down.

[Johnny Dollar]

Hildy, this isn't some kind of a gag, is it?

[Hildy Ransom]

What?

[Johnny Dollar]

I mean, you're having me come all the way out here to find something that wasn't lost after all.

[Hildy Ransom]

Johnny. Oh, Johnny, how can you say such a thing? Of course not. Now that you are here and the Star is safe and sound, I think we'll have Fun together, huh, Hildy? I've got plenty. So tired of the other guests I have on board. Stuffy old Professor Randolph and his boring wife and Charlie Burton and that girl.

[Johnny Dollar]

He'S always pawning over the Cape Star was actually missing.

[Hildy Ransom]

I swear it, Johnny.

[Johnny Dollar]

All right, then. I still have a job to do. I want to meet these guests of yours. Also, I want to talk to the crew.

[Hildy Ransom]

Of course, John, but later. I'll have some drinks brought in and plan ourselves a ball between now and when we put into port. Yes, Ms.

[Johnny Dollar]

Ransom.

[Hildy Ransom]

Yes, Captain.

[Johnny Dollar]

One of the men. One of the crew. Name's McCarty. Yes, it looked like appendicitis, ma'. Am. And I took the liberty of sending him ashore in the cruiser. It'll get there long before we can.

[Hildy Ransom]

Of course, Captain, you've done exactly right.

[Johnny Dollar]

Wait a minute. I'm not so sure of that. Why, Johnny McCutty, huh? Short, dark, with a scar on his chin. Yes, sir. They've already left. What? Yes, sir. Ten to one that McCarty is the man I want.

[Hildy Ransom]

John.

[Johnny Dollar]

Hilly, we gotta stop. A radio call to the cruiser brought no response. And I had a sneaking suspicion the skipper of it had a gun in his back. A gun held by the supposedly sick McCarty. And the yacht, despite its size and power, could never catch up with that cruiser in a thousand years. If you're right, Mr. Dollar, we'll radio to the Coast Guard. Intercepted. But I couldn't be sure that I was right. And then I noticed the speedboat slung between davits on the yacht's after deck.

[Hildy Ransom]

Of course, Johnny and I'll go after them with you.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, no, you won't.

[Hildy Ransom]

Just for kids, huh?

[Johnny Dollar]

Please, no. Then six, eight, ten minutes later, however long it took to get the speedboat overside, the first mate and I were tearing across the ocean in pursuit of the cruiser. That cruiser will do an even 20 knots if he opens her wide, Mr. Dollar. But she's no match for this baby. And pour it on. Come on. You see him yet? You dead ahead? Yeah, yeah, I see him, too. But where's the skipper? McCarty's up in the bridge alone. Hey, look out that puff of smoke. He's shooting at us. Then hang on. I'm gonna swerve around. But he'd never hit us at this range anyhow. Hey, down low, he might get lucky. You got a gun to answer him? No. There's a very pissed load. Use it for shooting up the stress players. Where is it? This cabinet under the dash. You see it? Yeah, right. It's no match for a.38. But if you can swerve us in, call close enough. Keep swerving right. Hey, look, he's having to reload and get us in there fast. Here we go. Well, let him have it. Let him have it. Yeah. You got him. You got him. Come on. Give me another load here. $. Right here. Watch him. Huh? He's changing course. Hey, you're right. Look out, he's turning. He's turning into us. I kind of pieced things together after the yacht. The Hildemara picked us up. By sheer luck, my shot with a flare gun had struck McCarty full on. He was badly burned. And after the smash up, the mate had pulled me out of the drink by then. The yacht caught up with us.

[Hildy Ransom]

And do you know what he was doing, Johnny? That man who called himself McCarty.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, hi. Hi. Healthy.

[Hildy Ransom]

Smuggling narcotics that he picked up in China.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yeah.

[Hildy Ransom]

He knew he'd never get through customs when we came to port. So he stole the Cape Star just long enough to make sure the cruiser would come out to us. He knew I'd send for somebody.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, yeah, I get it. Then he played sick to go back on the cruiser. That way he'd avoid customs and the police.

[Hildy Ransom]

Yeah. Thomas. Or is he now below locked up? And after the way you hit him with that flare, well, now he is sick. Darn it.

[Johnny Dollar]

Darn it.

[Hildy Ransom]

We didn't have to get him into a doctor. Gee, Johnny, you and I could cruise around and. Well, it will be two or three days before we get to port.

[Johnny Dollar]

Three days. And what are three days? But, oh, well. Expense account total, including transportation Back to Hartford. $230 even remarks. It's funny, isn't it? You never know what you're going to get into when you take on even the most routine kind of case. Yours truly, Johnny do. Our star will return in just a moment. Our flag now numbers 50 stars and behind each star there stands yet another flag representing one of the 50 states. Iowa's state flag was adopted from a design made during World War I for use by the state regiments. An eagle stands on a field of white with wings outspread in the manner used by the American Indians to signify speed and wisdom. In his beak is a blue streamer inscribed with the state's motto. Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain. Iowa's state flag. The flag of the 29th state to enter the union was adopted on March 29, 1921. And now here's our star to tell you about next week's story. Next week. Well, the case is called the Virtuous Mobster Matter. And if you can't figure what that means, well, join us, won't you? Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar, starring Bob Bailey, originates in Hollywood and is produced and directed by by Jack Gemstone, who also wrote today's story. Heard in our cast were Virginia Greg, Chet Stratton, Barney Phillips, Jack Mos, and Frank Gerstel. Be sure to join us next week, same time and station for another exciting story of yours truly, Johnny Doll. This is the United States Armed Forces Radio and Television Service. Sam. This is the story of the 1. As head of maintenance at a concert hall, he knows the show must always go on. That's why he works behind the scenes, ensuring every light is working, the H Vac is humming, and his facility shines with Granger's supplies and solutions for every challenge he faces. Plus 24. 7 customer support. His venue never misses a beat. Call quitgranger.com or just stop by Granger for the ones who get it done.

[Adam Graham]

Welcome back. Well, just as a general rule, if you bark at a woman during your race, you probably shouldn't give her a hey now, if she suggests you're a wolf, I gotta say that that Rip guy was a bit of a trip. I mean, just so much luxury. His own private plane. And can you imagine, this guy had a phone in his car. Can you imagine going around everywhere with a phone? In all seriousness, this is one of the earlier portrayals of a car phone that I've encountered. Now, of course, a lot of the smart private detectives would have them on television in the 1960s, not really notable at all. And then of course you had in the 70s, Mr. Frank Cannon, played by the great William Connor Conrad, who had that as a standard part of his equipment. And I think that was throughout the entire run of that series. All right, well, listener comments and feedback now. And we start out over on Instagram where Brains Benton wrote. Just finished listening to the Road to the Valentine Manor. What a fun ride. I really enjoyed seeing how the same story could be told in so many different ways. Jeff Regan's version was classic, hard boiled, straight forward and gritty nightbeat, leaning into the melodrama in the best way. And William Conrad's performance was a standout. Lun's dollar didn't quite land for me. Maybe because the gangster's already dead when it starts. Or maybe because Lunge Johnny can't help but pale next to Bailey's. The Valentine Manor was a treat as a serial with five episodes. The characters had room to breath and grow. Maybe an unfair advantage when trying to pick a fave, but it made for a rich listening experience. Thanks for putting this together. It was such an interesting way to explore storytelling across formats and voices. Well, thank you so much. Appreciate the comment Brains. Then we turn to YouTube where James wrote Regarding the episode the Midnight Sun Matter. What an excellent episode. Perhaps the most thrilling one I've heard yet. Johnstone did a great job of keeping the listener at the edge of the seat. Thanks for all you do, Adam. And thank you. And then one comment here, this one regarding the Falcon episode, the Case of the Snappy Snapshot. Do you think I could still send for the baseball book? Well, Ryan sir, you can try. And I will admit that I've had moments listening to various old time radio programs, hearing a promotion and you just need to send in the stamped request. I thought, yeah, that that's pretty good. I wish I could do that. And I'll be honest that I think that the that if I was ever given a chance to time travel, I would probably waste it messing around with old time radio stuff. I'm going to get things set up so I can finally get those Superman pins. I really want those things. And without paying $70 on eBay. Thanks so much Rein sir. And now it is time to thank our Patreon Supporter of the day. And I want to go ahead and thank Rhonda as this is our first Friday in October. Rhonda has been one of our patreon supporters since October 2020. And again, thank you so much for your support over the last five years. Really appreciate it, Rhonda. And that will do it for today. If you're enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software and be sure and rate and review the podcast wherever you download it from. We'll be back next Friday with another episode of Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar. But join us back here tomorrow for great adventurers of old time Radio and cloak and dagger.

[Johnny Dollar]

What do you say, Sing Tung? Is Kiyan's wild donkeys as good pack animals as other white men has?

[Hildy Ransom]

What's he talking about? What other white men? Ask him.

[Johnny Dollar]

Strangers leave here two days ago on way also to holy city of Rasa. Wear badge with crooked cross Sell Nazis. We're in a race, Esther. We've got to reach Lhasa before they do.

[Adam Graham]

I hope you'll be with us then. In the meantime, send your comments to Box13greatdetives.net follow us on Twitter Radio Detectives. Check us out on Instagram instagram.com greatdetectives From Boise, Idaho, this is your host, Adam Graham, signing off.

[Johnny Dollar]

This is the story of the One As a maintenance supervisor at a manufacturing facility, he knows keeping the line up and running is a top priority. That's why he chooses Grainger, because when a drive belt gets damaged, Grainger makes it easy to find the exact specs for the replacement product he needs. And next day delivery helps ensure he'll have everything in place and running like clockwork. Call 1-800-GRAINGER click granger.com or just stop by Grainger for the ones who get it done.