November 5, 2023 • 28 mins
The Shadow - Old Time Radio Show - Poison Death
"The Shadow" was a popular American radio show that originally aired from 1930 to 1954. Created by Walter B. Gibson, the show featured the mysterious and enigmatic character known as "The Shadow." The character was first introduced as the host and narrator of the radio program, but he later became a crime-fighting vigilante with the power to cloud men's minds, making himself invisible to their sight.Here is a description of the show:Title: The ShadowPremiere Date: The series first aired on July 31, 1930.Format: The show was a radio drama that primarily featured crime, mystery, and suspense stories. It was known for its eerie and atmospheric storytelling.Main Character: The central character of the show was Lamont Cranston, a wealthy young man about town. However, Cranston also led a double life as "The Shadow." Using his ability to cloud men's minds and remain unseen, The Shadow fought against crime and injustice in the gritty urban landscape.Narration: The show was famous for its distinctive opening narration, delivered in a deep, haunting voice: "Who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of men? The Shadow knows!" This catchphrase became one of the most iconic lines in radio history.Cast: Numerous actors portrayed Lamont Cranston and The Shadow over the years. Orson Welles, one of the most celebrated figures in entertainment history, played The Shadow from 1937 to 1938, and his portrayal is often considered one of the most memorable.Episodes: "The Shadow" featured a wide range of thrilling adventures and mysteries. Each episode usually began with a crime or threat to society, and The Shadow would use his unique abilities to unravel the mystery, defeat the villains, and restore justice.Legacy: The radio show was immensely popular during its run and contributed significantly to the development of the superhero genre. The character of The Shadow also inspired a variety of other media adaptations, including novels, comics, films, and television series.While "The Shadow" radio show eventually ended its run in the mid-1950s, its legacy lives on, and it remains an important part of American radio history, known for its captivating storytelling and iconic character.
"The Shadow" was a popular American radio show that originally aired from 1930 to 1954. Created by Walter B. Gibson, the show featured the mysterious and enigmatic character known as "The Shadow." The character was first introduced as the host and narrator of the radio program, but he later became a crime-fighting vigilante with the power to cloud men's minds, making himself invisible to their sight.Here is a description of the show:Title: The ShadowPremiere Date: The series first aired on July 31, 1930.Format: The show was a radio drama that primarily featured crime, mystery, and suspense stories. It was known for its eerie and atmospheric storytelling.Main Character: The central character of the show was Lamont Cranston, a wealthy young man about town. However, Cranston also led a double life as "The Shadow." Using his ability to cloud men's minds and remain unseen, The Shadow fought against crime and injustice in the gritty urban landscape.Narration: The show was famous for its distinctive opening narration, delivered in a deep, haunting voice: "Who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of men? The Shadow knows!" This catchphrase became one of the most iconic lines in radio history.Cast: Numerous actors portrayed Lamont Cranston and The Shadow over the years. Orson Welles, one of the most celebrated figures in entertainment history, played The Shadow from 1937 to 1938, and his portrayal is often considered one of the most memorable.Episodes: "The Shadow" featured a wide range of thrilling adventures and mysteries. Each episode usually began with a crime or threat to society, and The Shadow would use his unique abilities to unravel the mystery, defeat the villains, and restore justice.Legacy: The radio show was immensely popular during its run and contributed significantly to the development of the superhero genre. The character of The Shadow also inspired a variety of other media adaptations, including novels, comics, films, and television series.While "The Shadow" radio show eventually ended its run in the mid-1950s, its legacy lives on, and it remains an important part of American radio history, known for its captivating storytelling and iconic character.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:11):
The Shadow no again. Blue CoalDealers present radio strangest adventurer, The Shadows,
mystery man who strikes terror into thevery hearts of shops as lawbreakers and
(00:31):
criminals. Today Blue Coal brings youthe Shadow's latest adventure, the White Legion,
Ladies and gentlemen. In just amoment, our last adventure with the
Shadow for this season will begin.In the meantime, Let's give a thought
to the special heating problems of thespring season. Springtime means warm days,
(00:52):
cool days, showers, and uneventemperatures that bring colds and slipples. So
guard against uncertain weather. Burn bluecoal and your heating plant. For blue
coal protects against varying temperature. It'sharmless. Blue color is your guarantee of
steady, your more dependable heat atless cost. So when you're buying fuel,
insist on blue coal Pennsylvania's finest ap site. Order a trial ton
(01:18):
from your nearest Blue Coal dealer tomorrowand listen for the shadows important message at
the end of the program, Smith, will you bring me those papers which
(01:38):
one of you is William Devons righthere? What can I do for it?
We want you Devons stop that legendand get your hat. Hey,
I've got your covered set up againstthe wall. May what do you mean
budging into my office door? Asyou're tall? The White Legion watch you,
Devons, and we go in whereverwe have business? Move? Why
are you up? I'll the lessyou stand back with a White Legion.
Unless that Devons is gonna learn alesson, he'll never I get the prisoner.
(02:08):
William Devons has confessed his part ofthe conspiracy against the Sacred Institution to
the White Legion. We give himto the All High Commander Lent. He
accused all his pain. Have youanything to say? Devins? And I
please? Will you don't kill me? I've got a wife and children.
(02:29):
Please let me go give him anothertaste of the whip. I'll secure the
prisoner and stand him over the trapdoor. Don't don't open the trap well,
(02:55):
goad to find you in Margot,have about a little shopping me this
morning? La, But isn't teno'clock a triple early for you? Not
this morning at any rate. Ialready paid a call on Commissioner Western on
my way over po A man's upto his neck as usual. What's the
trouble now? We've got quite afew things on his mind, one of
them being William Devons. William Devons, isn't he the chief of the Bureau
of Market He was this morning hisbody was found far out at sea,
(03:17):
bound hand and foot and apparently thrownfrom a ship. Oh, peculiarly atrocious
murder, Lamart any clues so far? None? Another thing bothering the Commissioner
is the matter of this White legion, the White Nation. It's a band
of men calling themselves avengers of injustice, were taking a law into their own
hands, terrorizing, assaulting and abducting, often in broad daylight and in the
(03:38):
most unexpected place. That's strange.I haven't seen anything about it in the
papers so far. It's been keptout of the papers. But in spite
of that, enough has gotten out. So the demands of being made of
Western. That's something to be doneimmediately for a Commissioner Western, he seems
to have his hands full. Andon top of all that, Young Alton
Parker's life has been threatened. He'sthe assistant district Attorney, you know,
he's life threatened by Well. Parkeris prosecuting a case against Bread Hollins,
(04:00):
the gangster accused of killing Boss housewhen a couple of months ago the trial
comes up this week. Oh,it's all sentenced to politics, as those
Western seems to think the White Legionwas mixed up in that too. Then
the White Legion has some connection withpolitics. Possible. However, if we're
going to start suspecting people, wecould begin at the top of the city
hall crowd and go to the bottom. It's Western's problem, not ours.
I wanna go shopping with me?Why not? What are we going for?
(04:23):
Oh? A little exercise and afew shirts come along? Lenin's an
embroadery the next ale over Godey pluck, darling, don't you think there's airplane
(04:45):
luggage? Is just the thing forour trips house. It's nice here,
but I can't seem themhoos about thistrip somehow oldon. We've planned so many
times before, and now this latestdevelopment. Oh, I'm terribly worried to
Oh now, please Helen. Districtattorneys are always getting threatening. They don't
mean a thing. Yes, andmister Lawrence Primi is just as centers.
This Red Collins case is finished.I can back up and go. We
start trial tomorrow. Can't last morethan a week. I know. I'm
(05:09):
sorry to be so silent, Alton, what's the idea? But those the
men I saw him, We camein the saw they're coming away, and
please don't let your cousin's a gunin my pocket. Shut up and come
about you kick him out? Shutmiss Poker and stand right here. What
are you trying to do? Awhite legion wants to ask you some questions,
Poker. That's so, we'll takethis hand back this listen, arrest
ragout king, get back. We'reoff here, arrested. Come out to
(05:31):
his wife. She's faded. Willyou please clear the aisle. Please.
They put that guy in the cornand drove off with him the top of
the corner, went after him.It will so many, please look after.
I'd better phone the police, nottake care of this. She all
right, Margo, I think soLama chained it. I beg your pardon.
This must be her husband's briefcase.Papers cut it all over. I
(05:53):
pick him up. Let me helpyou. My husband didn't deify the police.
Who is your husband? Attorney AltonParker, Alton Parker. Those men
have took them away. Definitely whitelegion. I hate them, say please
please do? Would you come tothe first aid room, Adam, they're
sending over detectives. Please, I'llexcuse me, Missus Parker. I'm Hardley
(06:17):
Clay's owner and publisher of the Globe. Is this your husband's briefcase? Well,
I'd be very glad to deliver tothe District Attorney's office, if you
say so, may be valuable papergeneral, if you will see claim now,
if you come right this way,please Missus Parker, excuse me,
mister Crash, will you Marcus?Well, what do you make of this?
(06:39):
If what she says is true,it's more of the White Legion's handiwork.
Oh do you think so? Iunderstand they were mixed up in the
murder of Boss Houseman. All that'spure hearsay. There was no relevandence.
Still, Red Collins is going totry for shooting Boss Houseman, and Alton
Parker has stated to prosecute it orhangs together, don't I suppose so?
Anyway, I intend to take thismatter up editorially in my paper this very
afternoon. The Globe is kept awayfrom the White Legion up to now.
(07:01):
So much politics mixed up in it? You know, yes, I know
it's but this is terrible. I'llsee what Commissioner Western is doing about it.
Well, I must go along now. Oh wait, let me see.
Is that paper on the floor outof this briefcase? Yes? Oh
see it's been not even a salesfolder special today white goods sale. Oh
(07:23):
for yes, I say, uhhuh, well, uh, I'll get
this briefcase down to the District Attorney'soffice. Glad too, a very graduate
shoe, mister Craze. Oh thenyou why Michael, sure right now?
Yes, we're suffering from shop oldm oh, this is an outrage,
Lamart. You wanna do something.The Shadow ought to do something I mentioned.
You're right? Hm. Where didyou get those papers? I think
they've fell out of Alton Parker's briefcasenow rather important? I believe you see
(07:45):
the title on them. Yeah,evidence the State versus Red Colins. Why
are you? Oh? Why ambeginning to see? Yes, the Shadow
is doing something about the White LegionMargo. And what's more, I expect
to have a very busy afternoon.It's a message from the Commander, isn't
(08:11):
it. Yeah, I've got it, mister Clays s you m m A
R two oh one one. Heyway, sir, I'll put it on your
dress. Thank you see who thatis at the door? Yes, sir,
(08:37):
all right, jill telegram point czetelegram. What can this mean?
Oh? Yes, congratulations on yoursplendid editorial in this afternoon's Globe was almost
convincing. Signed the shadow? Whatfor shadowtop trembling, you fool? But
if the shadow, you take careof the shadow, just as we take
(08:58):
care of the rest of He can'tbluff me. Pardon the intrusion, mister
Clays. Who is that who speaks? I am the one they call the
shadow. He's here in this room. I've heard of you on your trick.
Shadow. Where are you here inthe shadows? But don't be alarmed
because you can't see me. I'veonly come for a short visit, mister
(09:22):
Clay's why honor me with your presenceas a newspaper editor. I thought you
might like to hear the news.What news? The White Legion is about
to be exposed? The White Legionexposed. I presume you'll want to run
an extra on that. Well,yes, of course, I'm sure I'll
be very pleased the fair minded citizensof the city and state can force an
expose that organis issues sound like yourown editorials, mister Clays. If you're
(09:46):
insinuating that I have some connection withthe White Legion, you're very much mistaken.
I never insinuate mister Clay's. Isimply wanted to keep you posted.
The next time you hear my voice, please be ready to run your extras.
It will be the signal that theWhite Legion is doomed. Before the
(10:13):
Shadow continues its adventure. I wantto give you a message from blue coal
dealers throughout the country. As announcedearlier, this is the final Shadow broadcast
of the winter series. Blue coaldealers take this opportunity to express their great
appreciation for the many letters they havereceived praising these broadcasts. They are also
deeply grateful to New England's families whohave favored blue coal with a volume of
(10:35):
business which has created a sensation inthe fuel industry in New England this winter.
We are of course happy that somany families have learned through experience that
blue coal, an American product,is Pennsylvania's finest anthracite. It is the
best quality fuel that can be usedfor. Not only is blue coal safe,
clean and convenient, it is economicaltoo. The glen Alden Coal Company,
(10:58):
who mine blue coal, have preparedit especially for home use. No
wonder, Blue coal sales in NewEngland have increased more than twenty eight percent
this winter compared to the same perioda year ago. You may be sure
that the high standards of quality whichhave been responsible for this increase in business,
will be maintained at all times.So take a tip from blue coal
families and for better, more economicalheat, switch to blue coal to morrow.
(11:24):
Ask for it by name. Ordera trial ton from your nearest blue
coal dealer. His name is listedin the where to buy it section of
your classified telephone directory under the nameblue Coal. Hmm, let me see
(11:54):
those notes, Margaret. What makesyou think Hotney Clays is mixed up with
this white legion? Lamont m deductivereasoning, Margo. I've noticed that since
this white Legion stuff is broke inthe papers, Clay's paper, the Globe
has been deliberately playing it down.Clay's editorial policy seems to be that the
atrocities that White Legion have been greatlyexaggerated. It does sound peculiar exactly.
(12:15):
Clay seemed rather confused when I appearedDuren this afternoon as the shadow this may
clean up letters. Well, yougot there. It's a copy I made
of a memorandums on Cray's desk.Let's see, Oh, what in the
world does it mean? These twowords convocation water Chapel. Then a string
of letters and numbers s U NM A R two O one one doesn't
(12:35):
make sense, Yes it does,s U N is Sunday, m Ai
is March and then twenty and elevenConvocation water Chapel, Sunday, March twentieth
at eleven. But that's today,yes, probably at eleven tonight. And
I have an idea that the waterChapel is the place where they're holding Alton
Parker prisoner. We're going to findout. Bring the car and meet me
(12:58):
in the block next to his houseat eight o'clock. Margo, h if
Clays is going to that meeting,we'll follow him. Slow down, Margo,
wanna get too close to hunt theyClay's cars. This fog rolling in
would be lucky if we don't losethem entirely. Can you see their cars
(13:22):
through the field glasses the moment,Yes, it's turn down that side road
towards the bay. There's a smallshack on the edge of the water.
FOG's getting heavier and makes it hardto see. M That chack must be
the place they call a water chapel. Yes, its apparently right on the
edge of the channel. It goesout to sea. H gotter stop here,
Margot. Let's get out all right, Lamont. And there's a small
(13:43):
inlet here. We can see betternow he said that fog doesn't get any
thicker. There's a motor boat tiedup the wharf, three cars parking.
If I wait, Claise, myman with him are getting out. They're
going toward the shack. I don'tsee any light in the place. I
wasn't in the joint. Yes,there's a figure dressed in a long white
robe and a mosque with a whitecap on his head. Oh A gone
(14:05):
inside blast that fog is, Ithink, so, I think I can't
see the place you longer. Whatare you going to do now? Somehow
I've got to get out there,and I just as soon not go by
the front door. Oh look,Lamont, there's a roboat lying there in
a good idea, Maga. Thisseems to be only one oar, but
h I can paddle with that.This inlet apparently leads down into the channel.
Lama Please be careful. There's aterrible current rushing out to see and
(14:26):
in that fog you won't be ableto see anything. I'll be alright.
But if you don't hear from meby six o'clock in the morning, get
intume to Commissioner Western, give himan occasion of this place, and warn
him to bring a few men withhim. Yeah. If I get what
I expect, I won't need him. What do you expect to get enough
evidence to wipe out the White Legionfrom top to bottom? All right,
(14:58):
Barker, get yourself ready to meetthe judgment of the White Legion. What
judgment? A judgment of death?Coming back for you in a minute,
judgment of death, Altron Parker.Who who's that quiet? I am the
Shadow. I have come to helpyou. Shadow. Keep your chin up
and do what they kill you.We'll see this through. Careful. Yeah,
(15:22):
step up, Barker and follow me. Alright. Uh, this meeting
of the comrades of the White Legionwill come to order. First Defender present
the accused. The accused stands beforeyou, all High Commander, first Recorder,
(15:45):
the prisoner, Alton Parker, havingcommitted acts against the order of the
White Legion, acts that we considerdetrimental to the good of our city.
We have signed his order of punishmentwith the consent of the comrades. We'd
give him into your hands. AltonParker, have you anything to say,
(16:08):
Yes, yes, I have.I was to have prosecutor a murderer tomorrow,
a man known as Red Collins,by your help and instigation, killed
our houseman, your political rival's commonknowledge. If this white legion of yours
sides with a party in power atcity Hall, and all your sanctimonious chatter
about the good of our city doesn'tfool anybody. Prosecuting criminals is my job,
(16:32):
and if that prosecution and dangers thelives and reputations of one political clique
or another, it's no concern ofmine. You have one more minute.
I know why you're getting rid ofme, because your white legion is mixed
up and the worst scandal this statehas ever known. And I know what
that scandal is. If you,with your robes and masks, you what
that scandal is, you wouldn't bemembers of this gang. You'd ask your
(16:53):
leaders what kind of money grafting racketthey're running. Ask him the one that
sits there on his mock Throne whotore off my mask? You fools,
get back here. It is Commanderthe strap brope odd I could have sworn.
I thought someone care Come to themen. Stand the accused over the
(17:14):
trap. You are sentenced to die, Alton Poker. You will pay for
this, all of him. There'sa power beyond your reach that will make
you pay if you mean the Shadow. When the time comes, we'll deal
with the Shadow in a way hewon't forget silence. Stand ready at the
trap. Give me that rope.I want to dispose of mister Parker myself
(17:38):
ready, the trap is ready.Good Ah. In another half hour,
Alton Parker's body will be far atsea. The vengeance of the White Legion
is now completed. We call theShadows bluff missioner western speaking, but monic
(18:07):
commissioner. Oh, it's you Shadow. This morning they're bringing Red Collins to
trial for the murder of Boss Hausman. Do you think I don't know the
surgeon The trial starts. Have aman station at each entrance to the courtroom.
Don't get anyone in or out withoutyour authority, and wish yourself by
the main entrance. I think you'llhave a surprise what's the idea. I'll
do it if you tell me what. I can't tell you anything more.
(18:29):
Now, Commissioner, accept this.If you don't do it, you'll regret
it the rest of your life.Well, I don't know what you're planning,
but it'd better be good. Ohit'll be good, Commissioner. I'll
promise you that it'll be good.Order, your honor, I reques that
(19:00):
this man, who calls himself RedCollins, be reprimanded for his insults to
me. The district Attorney proceed withthe case. Please very well, Collins,
who paid you to murder Boss Houseman? Defense objection? Your allah objection?
Sustain your honner. Perhaps you'll answerthis question, Collins, were you
(19:21):
ever a member of the White Legion? I was not. I tell you
that once before all right, defenserequests that the prosecutor stick to the case
in hand, the murder of AlHousman. The case in hand, as
the defense and everybody else knows,goes far beyond the prosecution of this gangster.
Why I intend to prove your honnerthat this man Collins killed Al Houseman,
(19:44):
but that Collins acted under the instructionsof the notorious gang known as the
White legion. What the same gangwho calls the mysterious disappearance of my able
assistant, mister Rousen Parker, confineyourself to the case in hand. District
Attorney seems to have some trouble doingthat. Here, look at this note,
columns. Do you deny sending thathouseman the day before he was killed?
(20:07):
Sure? I wrote the letter andsaid it to him. I told
you that once already. So whywhy did you write him such a threatening
letter? The scareman to pay methe money of me? That's why I
told you that once. Mister Collinsis lying twos that he can either read
nor write. I demand that heidentify himself. Is there someone in this
(20:33):
courtroom who wishes to be sworn asa witness? Where are you? Who
are you? I am the shadowJudge ruscoll I have some unsworn testimony that
may interest you. The men whopaid Red Collins to commit murder are in
this room. They are the leadersof the White Cleton. They have secretly
milked the city treasury of over tenmillion dollars in the past three years.
(20:57):
Their hands are red with bront Iprotested this particulous proceeding. One of those
men is sitting here in this courtroom. His name has been honored in the
past, but he is a murderer. You name, it's Hockney, claims
(21:17):
sanktimonious crusading editor who used his influenceand position to learn the movements of the
law and keep suspicion away from himself. If there is any further disturbance,
I will order the court room clear. Judge Roscoe, yes, sister's past.
He concluded. If this this shadowaccuses me, let him present evidence.
(21:37):
The evidence is ready. You aremaking a pass of this court of
justice, whoever you are. Ifyou don't stop, I will suspend the
hearing. I have talked enough.I now call your attention to the young
man who is just entering the doorwith Commissioner Western Parker. It's out of
Parker. It is Parker cus tosee this attorney to disappeared. I command
(22:02):
the suspension of this trial. Now. This trial won't be suspended until I
present the evidence of conviction. Youcouldn't find that evidence could give us the
clays. It wasn't in my briefcase. Killing me wouldn't have destroyed it because
it's right here after I was kidnappedin the store. These papers were sent
(22:25):
to Commissioner Weston enough evidence to sendRed Collins to the electric chair, to
put an end forever to this murderinggang of hypocrites who call themselves the White
Legion. I order the arrest ofHartney clays Well. I dear mister Parker,
so got your hands claise you realizewhat you're doing. Yes, I'm
siding up pear of handcuffs on you. Mister. You'll be locked up from
(22:47):
charge with the murder of William Devans, among other God Todd Parker, right,
I I liquished the bit just amomnser Now I'm with suspension for the
presentment of new charges of the grandjury. Those charges will show that the
city funds have been tampered with.They will name the six leaders of the
White Legion, including it's all highcommander, the brains and moving force of
(23:11):
its murderous atrocities. The man whosits on the bench at this moment,
Judge Matthew Ruscoe. Are all ofyou adors the garden sergeant? Have your
man praised? Judge Ruscoe and thearrest and all poor a minute to the
French table action, why praise quiet? Quiet? There's one thing more,
(23:33):
I want to pay this public tributeto the one who, more than any
other, is responsible for this triumphof justice, the one who calls himself
the Shadow. I thank you.Let me remain a voice, a voice
(23:56):
that wakes the guilty conscience, bringterror to the wrong doer, and comfort
to the oppressed. Know me onlyas the Shadow. And now, ladies
(24:18):
and gentlemen, we bring you JohnBarclay, Blue Coals Heating Expert. But
before we hear mister Barclay, wewant to remind you that at the close
of the program, the Shadow himselfhas an interesting message for you. Be
sure to listen. And now,mister Barclay, thank you. Ken Now
a word about heating hot water thissummer, many listeners have had the experience
(24:40):
of preparing to take a shower onlyto discover the hot water supply has been
exhausted. Now, this condition shouldnot exist in any home. That can
always be an unlimited supply of hotwater when you heat it with the efficient
and up to date hot water tankheaters that manufacturers are turning out today.
These heaters are still known in manycommunit it is as bucket a day are
(25:00):
pot stoves. Their cost is trifling. Even when installed with automatic graft regulators,
which make their operations semi automatic.They guarantee a generous supply of really
hot water at a cost of aboutone third present gas bills. I suggest
that you ask a blue coal dealerabout this hot water heating equipment. He'd
(25:21):
be very glad to quart a priceon the size best siltic to your requirements.
Thank you, mister Barclay. Andnow, ladies and gentlemen, that
interesting message we promised you. Thepart of Lamont Cranston and the Shadow has
been played by one of the mostdistinguished figures in the theater to day,
mister Orson Wells, famous for hisproduction of Shakespeare in modern dress, a
(25:41):
director of the Mercury Theater, producerof Broadway hits like Julius Caesar and The
Shoemaker's Holiday. Mister Wells, stilla very young man, is making for
himself a unique place in the fieldof dramatic arts. We have been indeed
fortunate in having mister Wells and ourShadow programs. Now, I know all
of you would like to hear afew words from mister West. Good evening,
(26:07):
ladies and gentlemen. Words can hardlyexpress my great enjoyment in doing this
program for you. And now beforeI leave you, I wanna thank our
sponsors, Blue Coal, for givingme the opportunity of doing the show.
I wanna thank our cast for thewonderful work they've done throughout our entire season.
And above all, I wanna thankyou our listeners for your loyalty.
(26:29):
We all hope you've enjoyed listening tothe shows as much as we have playing
them. You know, in thetheater we can see our audience. We're
able to tell how well we're receivedby the applause we get. But unfortunately
we have no way of knowing howmuch you've enjoyed us over the air.
Wait, Arthin, may I makea suggestion? Are you certainly act in
Morehead? Or I should I say, Margot Lane, There is a way
(26:49):
if you've enjoyed this program and wouldlike to let mister Wells and all of
us know about it, simply phoneyour nearest Blue Coal dealer and tell him
so tomorrow morning, tell him howmuch you've enjoyed the Adventures of the Shadow.
A very fine idea, Angus.And now ladies and gentlemen, good
night, goodbye, Thank you,mister Wells. And let's all take Agnes
(27:14):
morehead suggestion and give the cast thevolume of applause they deserve. Phone your
nearest blue coal dealer tomorrow morning,tell him how much you've enjoyed the adventures
of the Shadow, and that you'dlike the Shadow programs to resume again in
the fall. You have just hearda dramatized version of one of the many
copyrighted stories which appear in the Shadowmagazine. All the characters and all the
(27:38):
person's named are fictitious. Any similarityto persons living or dead is purely coincidental.
As you so evil, so shallyou read people. Crime does not
(28:03):
pay the Shadow nose.
The Shadow no again. Blue CoalDealers present radio strangest adventurer, The Shadows,
mystery man who strikes terror into thevery hearts of shops as lawbreakers and
(00:31):
criminals. Today Blue Coal brings youthe Shadow's latest adventure, the White Legion,
Ladies and gentlemen. In just amoment, our last adventure with the
Shadow for this season will begin.In the meantime, Let's give a thought
to the special heating problems of thespring season. Springtime means warm days,
(00:52):
cool days, showers, and uneventemperatures that bring colds and slipples. So
guard against uncertain weather. Burn bluecoal and your heating plant. For blue
coal protects against varying temperature. It'sharmless. Blue color is your guarantee of
steady, your more dependable heat atless cost. So when you're buying fuel,
insist on blue coal Pennsylvania's finest ap site. Order a trial ton
(01:18):
from your nearest Blue Coal dealer tomorrowand listen for the shadows important message at
the end of the program, Smith, will you bring me those papers which
(01:38):
one of you is William Devons righthere? What can I do for it?
We want you Devons stop that legendand get your hat. Hey,
I've got your covered set up againstthe wall. May what do you mean
budging into my office door? Asyou're tall? The White Legion watch you,
Devons, and we go in whereverwe have business? Move? Why
are you up? I'll the lessyou stand back with a White Legion.
Unless that Devons is gonna learn alesson, he'll never I get the prisoner.
(02:08):
William Devons has confessed his part ofthe conspiracy against the Sacred Institution to
the White Legion. We give himto the All High Commander Lent. He
accused all his pain. Have youanything to say? Devins? And I
please? Will you don't kill me? I've got a wife and children.
(02:29):
Please let me go give him anothertaste of the whip. I'll secure the
prisoner and stand him over the trapdoor. Don't don't open the trap well,
(02:55):
goad to find you in Margot,have about a little shopping me this
morning? La, But isn't teno'clock a triple early for you? Not
this morning at any rate. Ialready paid a call on Commissioner Western on
my way over po A man's upto his neck as usual. What's the
trouble now? We've got quite afew things on his mind, one of
them being William Devons. William Devons, isn't he the chief of the Bureau
of Market He was this morning hisbody was found far out at sea,
(03:17):
bound hand and foot and apparently thrownfrom a ship. Oh, peculiarly atrocious
murder, Lamart any clues so far? None? Another thing bothering the Commissioner
is the matter of this White legion, the White Nation. It's a band
of men calling themselves avengers of injustice, were taking a law into their own
hands, terrorizing, assaulting and abducting, often in broad daylight and in the
(03:38):
most unexpected place. That's strange.I haven't seen anything about it in the
papers so far. It's been keptout of the papers. But in spite
of that, enough has gotten out. So the demands of being made of
Western. That's something to be doneimmediately for a Commissioner Western, he seems
to have his hands full. Andon top of all that, Young Alton
Parker's life has been threatened. He'sthe assistant district Attorney, you know,
he's life threatened by Well. Parkeris prosecuting a case against Bread Hollins,
(04:00):
the gangster accused of killing Boss housewhen a couple of months ago the trial
comes up this week. Oh,it's all sentenced to politics, as those
Western seems to think the White Legionwas mixed up in that too. Then
the White Legion has some connection withpolitics. Possible. However, if we're
going to start suspecting people, wecould begin at the top of the city
hall crowd and go to the bottom. It's Western's problem, not ours.
I wanna go shopping with me?Why not? What are we going for?
(04:23):
Oh? A little exercise and afew shirts come along? Lenin's an
embroadery the next ale over Godey pluck, darling, don't you think there's airplane
(04:45):
luggage? Is just the thing forour trips house. It's nice here,
but I can't seem themhoos about thistrip somehow oldon. We've planned so many
times before, and now this latestdevelopment. Oh, I'm terribly worried to
Oh now, please Helen. Districtattorneys are always getting threatening. They don't
mean a thing. Yes, andmister Lawrence Primi is just as centers.
This Red Collins case is finished.I can back up and go. We
start trial tomorrow. Can't last morethan a week. I know. I'm
(05:09):
sorry to be so silent, Alton, what's the idea? But those the
men I saw him, We camein the saw they're coming away, and
please don't let your cousin's a gunin my pocket. Shut up and come
about you kick him out? Shutmiss Poker and stand right here. What
are you trying to do? Awhite legion wants to ask you some questions,
Poker. That's so, we'll takethis hand back this listen, arrest
ragout king, get back. We'reoff here, arrested. Come out to
(05:31):
his wife. She's faded. Willyou please clear the aisle. Please.
They put that guy in the cornand drove off with him the top of
the corner, went after him.It will so many, please look after.
I'd better phone the police, nottake care of this. She all
right, Margo, I think soLama chained it. I beg your pardon.
This must be her husband's briefcase.Papers cut it all over. I
(05:53):
pick him up. Let me helpyou. My husband didn't deify the police.
Who is your husband? Attorney AltonParker, Alton Parker. Those men
have took them away. Definitely whitelegion. I hate them, say please
please do? Would you come tothe first aid room, Adam, they're
sending over detectives. Please, I'llexcuse me, Missus Parker. I'm Hardley
(06:17):
Clay's owner and publisher of the Globe. Is this your husband's briefcase? Well,
I'd be very glad to deliver tothe District Attorney's office, if you
say so, may be valuable papergeneral, if you will see claim now,
if you come right this way,please Missus Parker, excuse me,
mister Crash, will you Marcus?Well, what do you make of this?
(06:39):
If what she says is true,it's more of the White Legion's handiwork.
Oh do you think so? Iunderstand they were mixed up in the
murder of Boss Houseman. All that'spure hearsay. There was no relevandence.
Still, Red Collins is going totry for shooting Boss Houseman, and Alton
Parker has stated to prosecute it orhangs together, don't I suppose so?
Anyway, I intend to take thismatter up editorially in my paper this very
afternoon. The Globe is kept awayfrom the White Legion up to now.
(07:01):
So much politics mixed up in it? You know, yes, I know
it's but this is terrible. I'llsee what Commissioner Western is doing about it.
Well, I must go along now. Oh wait, let me see.
Is that paper on the floor outof this briefcase? Yes? Oh
see it's been not even a salesfolder special today white goods sale. Oh
(07:23):
for yes, I say, uhhuh, well, uh, I'll get
this briefcase down to the District Attorney'soffice. Glad too, a very graduate
shoe, mister Craze. Oh thenyou why Michael, sure right now?
Yes, we're suffering from shop oldm oh, this is an outrage,
Lamart. You wanna do something.The Shadow ought to do something I mentioned.
You're right? Hm. Where didyou get those papers? I think
they've fell out of Alton Parker's briefcasenow rather important? I believe you see
(07:45):
the title on them. Yeah,evidence the State versus Red Colins. Why
are you? Oh? Why ambeginning to see? Yes, the Shadow
is doing something about the White LegionMargo. And what's more, I expect
to have a very busy afternoon.It's a message from the Commander, isn't
(08:11):
it. Yeah, I've got it, mister Clays s you m m A
R two oh one one. Heyway, sir, I'll put it on your
dress. Thank you see who thatis at the door? Yes, sir,
(08:37):
all right, jill telegram point czetelegram. What can this mean?
Oh? Yes, congratulations on yoursplendid editorial in this afternoon's Globe was almost
convincing. Signed the shadow? Whatfor shadowtop trembling, you fool? But
if the shadow, you take careof the shadow, just as we take
(08:58):
care of the rest of He can'tbluff me. Pardon the intrusion, mister
Clays. Who is that who speaks? I am the one they call the
shadow. He's here in this room. I've heard of you on your trick.
Shadow. Where are you here inthe shadows? But don't be alarmed
because you can't see me. I'veonly come for a short visit, mister
(09:22):
Clay's why honor me with your presenceas a newspaper editor. I thought you
might like to hear the news.What news? The White Legion is about
to be exposed? The White Legionexposed. I presume you'll want to run
an extra on that. Well,yes, of course, I'm sure I'll
be very pleased the fair minded citizensof the city and state can force an
expose that organis issues sound like yourown editorials, mister Clays. If you're
(09:46):
insinuating that I have some connection withthe White Legion, you're very much mistaken.
I never insinuate mister Clay's. Isimply wanted to keep you posted.
The next time you hear my voice, please be ready to run your extras.
It will be the signal that theWhite Legion is doomed. Before the
(10:13):
Shadow continues its adventure. I wantto give you a message from blue coal
dealers throughout the country. As announcedearlier, this is the final Shadow broadcast
of the winter series. Blue coaldealers take this opportunity to express their great
appreciation for the many letters they havereceived praising these broadcasts. They are also
deeply grateful to New England's families whohave favored blue coal with a volume of
(10:35):
business which has created a sensation inthe fuel industry in New England this winter.
We are of course happy that somany families have learned through experience that
blue coal, an American product,is Pennsylvania's finest anthracite. It is the
best quality fuel that can be usedfor. Not only is blue coal safe,
clean and convenient, it is economicaltoo. The glen Alden Coal Company,
(10:58):
who mine blue coal, have preparedit especially for home use. No
wonder, Blue coal sales in NewEngland have increased more than twenty eight percent
this winter compared to the same perioda year ago. You may be sure
that the high standards of quality whichhave been responsible for this increase in business,
will be maintained at all times.So take a tip from blue coal
families and for better, more economicalheat, switch to blue coal to morrow.
(11:24):
Ask for it by name. Ordera trial ton from your nearest blue
coal dealer. His name is listedin the where to buy it section of
your classified telephone directory under the nameblue Coal. Hmm, let me see
(11:54):
those notes, Margaret. What makesyou think Hotney Clays is mixed up with
this white legion? Lamont m deductivereasoning, Margo. I've noticed that since
this white Legion stuff is broke inthe papers, Clay's paper, the Globe
has been deliberately playing it down.Clay's editorial policy seems to be that the
atrocities that White Legion have been greatlyexaggerated. It does sound peculiar exactly.
(12:15):
Clay seemed rather confused when I appearedDuren this afternoon as the shadow this may
clean up letters. Well, yougot there. It's a copy I made
of a memorandums on Cray's desk.Let's see, Oh, what in the
world does it mean? These twowords convocation water Chapel. Then a string
of letters and numbers s U NM A R two O one one doesn't
(12:35):
make sense, Yes it does,s U N is Sunday, m Ai
is March and then twenty and elevenConvocation water Chapel, Sunday, March twentieth
at eleven. But that's today,yes, probably at eleven tonight. And
I have an idea that the waterChapel is the place where they're holding Alton
Parker prisoner. We're going to findout. Bring the car and meet me
(12:58):
in the block next to his houseat eight o'clock. Margo, h if
Clays is going to that meeting,we'll follow him. Slow down, Margo,
wanna get too close to hunt theyClay's cars. This fog rolling in
would be lucky if we don't losethem entirely. Can you see their cars
(13:22):
through the field glasses the moment,Yes, it's turn down that side road
towards the bay. There's a smallshack on the edge of the water.
FOG's getting heavier and makes it hardto see. M That chack must be
the place they call a water chapel. Yes, its apparently right on the
edge of the channel. It goesout to sea. H gotter stop here,
Margot. Let's get out all right, Lamont. And there's a small
(13:43):
inlet here. We can see betternow he said that fog doesn't get any
thicker. There's a motor boat tiedup the wharf, three cars parking.
If I wait, Claise, myman with him are getting out. They're
going toward the shack. I don'tsee any light in the place. I
wasn't in the joint. Yes,there's a figure dressed in a long white
robe and a mosque with a whitecap on his head. Oh A gone
(14:05):
inside blast that fog is, Ithink, so, I think I can't
see the place you longer. Whatare you going to do now? Somehow
I've got to get out there,and I just as soon not go by
the front door. Oh look,Lamont, there's a roboat lying there in
a good idea, Maga. Thisseems to be only one oar, but
h I can paddle with that.This inlet apparently leads down into the channel.
Lama Please be careful. There's aterrible current rushing out to see and
(14:26):
in that fog you won't be ableto see anything. I'll be alright.
But if you don't hear from meby six o'clock in the morning, get
intume to Commissioner Western, give himan occasion of this place, and warn
him to bring a few men withhim. Yeah. If I get what
I expect, I won't need him. What do you expect to get enough
evidence to wipe out the White Legionfrom top to bottom? All right,
(14:58):
Barker, get yourself ready to meetthe judgment of the White Legion. What
judgment? A judgment of death?Coming back for you in a minute,
judgment of death, Altron Parker.Who who's that quiet? I am the
Shadow. I have come to helpyou. Shadow. Keep your chin up
and do what they kill you.We'll see this through. Careful. Yeah,
(15:22):
step up, Barker and follow me. Alright. Uh, this meeting
of the comrades of the White Legionwill come to order. First Defender present
the accused. The accused stands beforeyou, all High Commander, first Recorder,
(15:45):
the prisoner, Alton Parker, havingcommitted acts against the order of the
White Legion, acts that we considerdetrimental to the good of our city.
We have signed his order of punishmentwith the consent of the comrades. We'd
give him into your hands. AltonParker, have you anything to say,
(16:08):
Yes, yes, I have.I was to have prosecutor a murderer tomorrow,
a man known as Red Collins,by your help and instigation, killed
our houseman, your political rival's commonknowledge. If this white legion of yours
sides with a party in power atcity Hall, and all your sanctimonious chatter
about the good of our city doesn'tfool anybody. Prosecuting criminals is my job,
(16:32):
and if that prosecution and dangers thelives and reputations of one political clique
or another, it's no concern ofmine. You have one more minute.
I know why you're getting rid ofme, because your white legion is mixed
up and the worst scandal this statehas ever known. And I know what
that scandal is. If you,with your robes and masks, you what
that scandal is, you wouldn't bemembers of this gang. You'd ask your
(16:53):
leaders what kind of money grafting racketthey're running. Ask him the one that
sits there on his mock Throne whotore off my mask? You fools,
get back here. It is Commanderthe strap brope odd I could have sworn.
I thought someone care Come to themen. Stand the accused over the
(17:14):
trap. You are sentenced to die, Alton Poker. You will pay for
this, all of him. There'sa power beyond your reach that will make
you pay if you mean the Shadow. When the time comes, we'll deal
with the Shadow in a way hewon't forget silence. Stand ready at the
trap. Give me that rope.I want to dispose of mister Parker myself
(17:38):
ready, the trap is ready.Good Ah. In another half hour,
Alton Parker's body will be far atsea. The vengeance of the White Legion
is now completed. We call theShadows bluff missioner western speaking, but monic
(18:07):
commissioner. Oh, it's you Shadow. This morning they're bringing Red Collins to
trial for the murder of Boss Hausman. Do you think I don't know the
surgeon The trial starts. Have aman station at each entrance to the courtroom.
Don't get anyone in or out withoutyour authority, and wish yourself by
the main entrance. I think you'llhave a surprise what's the idea. I'll
do it if you tell me what. I can't tell you anything more.
(18:29):
Now, Commissioner, accept this.If you don't do it, you'll regret
it the rest of your life.Well, I don't know what you're planning,
but it'd better be good. Ohit'll be good, Commissioner. I'll
promise you that it'll be good.Order, your honor, I reques that
(19:00):
this man, who calls himself RedCollins, be reprimanded for his insults to
me. The district Attorney proceed withthe case. Please very well, Collins,
who paid you to murder Boss Houseman? Defense objection? Your allah objection?
Sustain your honner. Perhaps you'll answerthis question, Collins, were you
(19:21):
ever a member of the White Legion? I was not. I tell you
that once before all right, defenserequests that the prosecutor stick to the case
in hand, the murder of AlHousman. The case in hand, as
the defense and everybody else knows,goes far beyond the prosecution of this gangster.
Why I intend to prove your honnerthat this man Collins killed Al Houseman,
(19:44):
but that Collins acted under the instructionsof the notorious gang known as the
White legion. What the same gangwho calls the mysterious disappearance of my able
assistant, mister Rousen Parker, confineyourself to the case in hand. District
Attorney seems to have some trouble doingthat. Here, look at this note,
columns. Do you deny sending thathouseman the day before he was killed?
(20:07):
Sure? I wrote the letter andsaid it to him. I told
you that once already. So whywhy did you write him such a threatening
letter? The scareman to pay methe money of me? That's why I
told you that once. Mister Collinsis lying twos that he can either read
nor write. I demand that heidentify himself. Is there someone in this
(20:33):
courtroom who wishes to be sworn asa witness? Where are you? Who
are you? I am the shadowJudge ruscoll I have some unsworn testimony that
may interest you. The men whopaid Red Collins to commit murder are in
this room. They are the leadersof the White Cleton. They have secretly
milked the city treasury of over tenmillion dollars in the past three years.
(20:57):
Their hands are red with bront Iprotested this particulous proceeding. One of those
men is sitting here in this courtroom. His name has been honored in the
past, but he is a murderer. You name, it's Hockney, claims
(21:17):
sanktimonious crusading editor who used his influenceand position to learn the movements of the
law and keep suspicion away from himself. If there is any further disturbance,
I will order the court room clear. Judge Roscoe, yes, sister's past.
He concluded. If this this shadowaccuses me, let him present evidence.
(21:37):
The evidence is ready. You aremaking a pass of this court of
justice, whoever you are. Ifyou don't stop, I will suspend the
hearing. I have talked enough.I now call your attention to the young
man who is just entering the doorwith Commissioner Western Parker. It's out of
Parker. It is Parker cus tosee this attorney to disappeared. I command
(22:02):
the suspension of this trial. Now. This trial won't be suspended until I
present the evidence of conviction. Youcouldn't find that evidence could give us the
clays. It wasn't in my briefcase. Killing me wouldn't have destroyed it because
it's right here after I was kidnappedin the store. These papers were sent
(22:25):
to Commissioner Weston enough evidence to sendRed Collins to the electric chair, to
put an end forever to this murderinggang of hypocrites who call themselves the White
Legion. I order the arrest ofHartney clays Well. I dear mister Parker,
so got your hands claise you realizewhat you're doing. Yes, I'm
siding up pear of handcuffs on you. Mister. You'll be locked up from
(22:47):
charge with the murder of William Devans, among other God Todd Parker, right,
I I liquished the bit just amomnser Now I'm with suspension for the
presentment of new charges of the grandjury. Those charges will show that the
city funds have been tampered with.They will name the six leaders of the
White Legion, including it's all highcommander, the brains and moving force of
(23:11):
its murderous atrocities. The man whosits on the bench at this moment,
Judge Matthew Ruscoe. Are all ofyou adors the garden sergeant? Have your
man praised? Judge Ruscoe and thearrest and all poor a minute to the
French table action, why praise quiet? Quiet? There's one thing more,
(23:33):
I want to pay this public tributeto the one who, more than any
other, is responsible for this triumphof justice, the one who calls himself
the Shadow. I thank you.Let me remain a voice, a voice
(23:56):
that wakes the guilty conscience, bringterror to the wrong doer, and comfort
to the oppressed. Know me onlyas the Shadow. And now, ladies
(24:18):
and gentlemen, we bring you JohnBarclay, Blue Coals Heating Expert. But
before we hear mister Barclay, wewant to remind you that at the close
of the program, the Shadow himselfhas an interesting message for you. Be
sure to listen. And now,mister Barclay, thank you. Ken Now
a word about heating hot water thissummer, many listeners have had the experience
(24:40):
of preparing to take a shower onlyto discover the hot water supply has been
exhausted. Now, this condition shouldnot exist in any home. That can
always be an unlimited supply of hotwater when you heat it with the efficient
and up to date hot water tankheaters that manufacturers are turning out today.
These heaters are still known in manycommunit it is as bucket a day are
(25:00):
pot stoves. Their cost is trifling. Even when installed with automatic graft regulators,
which make their operations semi automatic.They guarantee a generous supply of really
hot water at a cost of aboutone third present gas bills. I suggest
that you ask a blue coal dealerabout this hot water heating equipment. He'd
(25:21):
be very glad to quart a priceon the size best siltic to your requirements.
Thank you, mister Barclay. Andnow, ladies and gentlemen, that
interesting message we promised you. Thepart of Lamont Cranston and the Shadow has
been played by one of the mostdistinguished figures in the theater to day,
mister Orson Wells, famous for hisproduction of Shakespeare in modern dress, a
(25:41):
director of the Mercury Theater, producerof Broadway hits like Julius Caesar and The
Shoemaker's Holiday. Mister Wells, stilla very young man, is making for
himself a unique place in the fieldof dramatic arts. We have been indeed
fortunate in having mister Wells and ourShadow programs. Now, I know all
of you would like to hear afew words from mister West. Good evening,
(26:07):
ladies and gentlemen. Words can hardlyexpress my great enjoyment in doing this
program for you. And now beforeI leave you, I wanna thank our
sponsors, Blue Coal, for givingme the opportunity of doing the show.
I wanna thank our cast for thewonderful work they've done throughout our entire season.
And above all, I wanna thankyou our listeners for your loyalty.
(26:29):
We all hope you've enjoyed listening tothe shows as much as we have playing
them. You know, in thetheater we can see our audience. We're
able to tell how well we're receivedby the applause we get. But unfortunately
we have no way of knowing howmuch you've enjoyed us over the air.
Wait, Arthin, may I makea suggestion? Are you certainly act in
Morehead? Or I should I say, Margot Lane, There is a way
(26:49):
if you've enjoyed this program and wouldlike to let mister Wells and all of
us know about it, simply phoneyour nearest Blue Coal dealer and tell him
so tomorrow morning, tell him howmuch you've enjoyed the Adventures of the Shadow.
A very fine idea, Angus.And now ladies and gentlemen, good
night, goodbye, Thank you,mister Wells. And let's all take Agnes
(27:14):
morehead suggestion and give the cast thevolume of applause they deserve. Phone your
nearest blue coal dealer tomorrow morning,tell him how much you've enjoyed the adventures
of the Shadow, and that you'dlike the Shadow programs to resume again in
the fall. You have just hearda dramatized version of one of the many
copyrighted stories which appear in the Shadowmagazine. All the characters and all the
(27:38):
person's named are fictitious. Any similarityto persons living or dead is purely coincidental.
As you so evil, so shallyou read people. Crime does not
(28:03):
pay the Shadow nose.
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