Craven Danger

Craven Danger - the Gumshoe Tales

A Boris Buttinski Christmas

Gather ‘round kiddies, ‘cause I got a story I wanna tell ya. Rudy the red-nosed reindeer, had a very shiny nose, see? And if ya ever saw it, you would even say it glowed
1 likes
Cherry

A Case of the Booze - A Craven Danger Mystery

Had to run this this tale over with a steamroller and get some of the wrinkles out.
Cherry

A Case of the Booze II - A Craven Danger Mystery

Note: I had the broom out anyway, so I decided to do some sweeping. Rich
Cherry

A Close Shave - Part 1 - A Craven Danger Mystery

Betty Fletcher climbed the stairs to the second floor office and heard the jangling of the telephone. She unlocked the door and hung her coat on the rack.
Cherry

A Close Shave - Part 10 - A Craven Danger Mystery

This young lady is Betty Fletcher,” said Mrs. Danger. “She’s Craven’s assistant. “You intoxicate me with your fragrance,” said Thelma. “What is it you’re wearing?”
Cherry

A Close Shave - Part 11 - A Craven Danger Mystery

All was dark in the paddy wagon as it sped its way to the police station.
Cherry

A Close Shave - Part 12 - A Conclusion - A Craven Danger Mystery

Betty, Thelma and the Danger family were led into the courtroom, where a matron ushered them to a front row pew.
Cherry

A Close Shave - Part 2 - A Craven Danger Mystery

Craven Danger sat in the barber’s chair and did what he always did when he got his haircut. Closed his eyes and hoped for the best.

A Close Shave - Part 3 - A Craven Danger Mystery

In a neat little cape cod house in the Bronx there dwell many Dangers. Mollie Danger put the kettle on to boil and sat at the breakfast table to face the morning weather.

A Close Shave - Part 4 - A Craven Danger Mystery

Craven Danger dialed Betty Fletcher’s home number for a third time. This time she answered the phone. “Oh, good” said Craven. “You’re back. I been tryin’ ta call ya for an hour.”
Cherry

A Close Shave - Part 5 - A Craven Danger Mystery

Sidney Green pulled up to the curb and waited for Betty Fletcher and Craven Danger. FDR, the old German Shepard, sat next to him in the front seat.
Cherry

A Close Shave - Part 6 - A Craven Danger Mystery

“How many times I gotta tell ya?” said Betty. “Ya brother’s not gonna be there. I called ya mother an’ she told me so. Now get in the cab before I take my cookie back.”
Cherry

A Close Shave - Part 7 - A Craven Danger Mystery

“Craven!” said Mollie Danger. “Hi, ya, Ma!” said Craven.
Cherry

A Close Shave - Part 8 - A Craven Danger Mystery

A bowl of Autumn colored mums sat on the white table cloth, surrounded by four place settings set in front of four hungry people.

A Close Shave - Part 9 - A Craven Danger Mystery

Thelma Theodoracopulos was not enjoying the company of the man who came by for one of her special readings.
Cherry

A Coney Island Saturday with Sidney Green

Betty sat in the back of Sidney Green’s taxi and poured out a glass of iced tea. ”Here ya go,” said Betty.
Cherry

A Sucker Seduced - A Craven Danger Mystery

“Good mornin’!” said Betty Fletcher into the receiver. "Craven Danger, private detective. Betty speaking. How may I help ya.”
Cherry

A Sucker Seduced - Part IX - A Craven Danger Mystery

Getting hungry, and having lost her patience waiting for Mr. Worthington, Betty Fletcher went off in search of Sidney Green.
Cherry

A Sucker Seduced - Part X - A Conclusion - A Craven Danger Mystery

Betty Fletcher tossed a Christmas snow globe from one hand to the next before deciding to give it a prominent place on a short stack of Movie Star magazines.
Cherry

A Sucker Seduced - Part II - A Craven Danger Mystery

Just Hoovered a little bit of this, and a little bit of that.
Cherry

A Sucker Seduced - Part IV - A Craven Danger Mystery

Jonathan T. Winthrop was an old hound dog whose bark had long been laid to rest. But he still had some of his wits about him.
Cherry

A Sucker Seduced - Part V - A Craven Danger Mystery

“Pull over, Sidney,” said Betty. “I think this is it.” “I hope so, Miss,” said Sidney. “My hemorrhoids doth protest too much, methinks.” “They doth?” said Betty.
Cherry

A Sucker Seduced - Part VI - A Craven Danger Mystery

“But what about Mr. Worthington in the elevator shaft?” said Betty.

A Sucker Seduced - Part VII - A Craven Danger Mystery

An edited version. Wherein Miss Tanner changes her tone. She was being much too nice.
Cherry

A Sucker Seduced - Part VIII - A Craven Danger Mystery

Sidney Green sat in the Worthington kitchen enjoying his inflated donut and coffee.
Cherry

A Touch of Lavender - Part 10 - A Craven Danger Mystery

Herbert Sampson accepted the flowers from the delivery girl and glanced over at Craven Danger, who was seated in the passenger seat of her truck. “That your boyfriend?”
Cherry

A Touch of Lavender - Part 11 - A Craven Danger Mystery

Craven Danger sat sipping his root beer as Betty walked into the coffee shop. He hadn’t noticed her come in. But Betty noticed plenty.
Cherry

A Touch of Lavender - Part 12 - A Craven Danger Mystery

Betty Fletcher settled herself in the back of the cab, then suddenly turned and planted a firm one on Craven’s chin.
Cherry

A Touch of Lavender - Part 3 - A Craven Danger Mystery

There is a locker at Grand Central Terminal. In it are the belongings of Hortense Rosenthal. Philanthropist. Philosopher.
Cherry

A Touch of Lavender - Part 4 - A Craven Danger Mystery

“Hop in, Mr. Danger,” said Sidney Green. “Grand Central Station here we come. You goin’ on a little trip? Helluva time to be goin’ anywhere’s. Rainin’ pins and needles out there.”

A Touch of Lavender - Part 5 - A Craven Danger Mystery

This is an edited version. I had to chisel a few hundred words off this beast. I made the mistake of thinking I was actually writing a mystery and not the nonsense I had intended.
Cherry

A Touch of Lavender - Part 7 - A Craven Danger Mystery

“Tickets!” said the conductor. “Have your tickets ready!” Damn, thought Craven Danger. What did I do with that ticket? “Ticket, sir.”
Cherry

A Touch of Lavender - Part 8 - A Craven Danger Mystery

Betty Fletcher sat in the back of Sidney Green’s taxi and rolled down the window. “I love this fall weather, Sidney,” said Betty. ”It‘s so simulatin‘.”
Cherry

A Touch of Lavender - Part 14 - A Craven Danger Mystery

“I’m feelin’ a draft under this sheet,” said Sidney. “Well, who told you to take off your pants?” said Craven.
Cherry

A Touch of Lavender - Part 15 - A Craven Danger Mystery

In through the back door, and into kitchen, crept three sleuthing ghosts. Hell bent on justice.
Cherry

A Touch of Lavender - Part 16 - A Craven Danger Mystery

Herbert Sampson soaked in a tub of lavender oil. Dead as the autumn leaves that skidded across his front lawn. Only he didn’t know it yet.
Cherry

A Touch of Lavender - Part 17- A Conclusion - A Craven Danger Mystery

“Geez, Sidney,” said Betty, “when’s the last time you washed those shorts?”
Cherry

A Touch of Lavender - Part 2 - A Craven Danger Mystery

Betty Fletcher tried to shake Craven Danger awake. But he was having none of it. So she grabbed a blanket and pillow from the coat closet and made him comfortable on the office sofa.
Cherry

A Touch of Lavender - Part 6 - A Craven Danger Mystery

Betty Fletcher sat at her desk and flicked the switch on her intercom. “Mr. Danger?” ”Yes, Betty?”
Cherry

A Touch of Lavender - Part 9 - A Craven Danger Mystery

Herbert Sampson looked like a man who had never known a hug. When he answered the door for the delivery girl it was all he could do to say thank you, much less reach into his pocket for a tip.
Cherry

A Walk Down the Aisle - Part 1 - A Craven Danger Mystery

Betty fletcher flipped the switch on the intercom. “Mr. Danger,” said Betty. “Ya got a minute?”
Cherry

A Walk Down the Aisle - Part 2 - A Craven Danger Mystery

Craven Danger knew he was having that dream again. That dream where Betty fletcher becomes his bride. But in past dreams it was always he who was doing the proposing.
Cherry

A Walk Down the Aisle - Part 3 - A Craven Danger Mystery

The naked man on the ledge reached his hand out to Craven Danger. “Please?” he said. “Hand over the pants. This is getting embarrassing.”
Cherry

A Walk Down the Aisle - Part 4 - A Craven Danger Mystery

In 1942, when Betty Fletcher was in high school, she fell hard for a boy named Jeffrey Drucker. “It’s been a long time, Betty,” said Jeffrey. “You look great.”
Cherry

A Walk Down the Aisle - Part 5 - A Craven Danger Mystery

The back of Sidney’s cab was silent as he made his way through Central Park. Without a word, Sidney passed a Thermos of coffee and two Paper cups back to Betty. “Thanks,” said Betty.
Cherry

A Word to the Wiseguy - Part 2 - A Craven Danger Mystery

Betty Fletcher buckled Craven into his seat. “Just calm down, Mr. Danger,” said Betty. “Why didn’t ya tell me ya never flew in a plane before?”

A Word to the Wiseguy - Part 1 - A Craven Danger Mystery

Betty Fletcher flipped the switch on her intercom. “Mr. Danger?” “Yeah, Betty?”
Cherry

A Word to the Wiseguy - Part 10 - A Craven Danger Mystery

The hypnotist asked the participants on stage if they would close their eyes and think of a favorite childhood pastime.
Cherry

A Word to the Wiseguy - Part 11 - A Craven Danger Mystery

The girl in the fruit salad hat then held tight to her pineapple. It was the only thing that remained in her horn of plenty bonnet.

A Word to the Wiseguy - Part 3 - A Craven Danger Mystery

In their room at the Tropical Splendor hotel, Boris Jones stared at himself in the bathroom mirror. “Mother of mercy!” said Boris. “Is this the end of Rico!”

A Word to the Wiseguy - Part 4 - A Craven Danger Mystery

“Nice tie,” said Boris. The four vacationers sat around a pool-side table at Tropical Splendor’s Sandy Shore dining room.
Cherry

A Word to the Wiseguy - Part 5 - A Craven Danger Mystery

Betty and Judy had coffee on the terrace outside of Betty Fletcher’s hotel room. “That was some left hook you throw at Danger last night,” said Judy.
Cherry

A Word to the Wiseguy - Part 6 - A Craven Danger Mystery

When Craven Danger stepped onto the terrace of his hotel room he noticed his pants flying away. Then he saw the bird.
Cherry

A Word to the Wiseguy - Part 7 - A Craven Danger Mystery

Craven Danger hopped into the backseat of Sidney Green’s taxi, and squeezed in between Betty and Judy, neither of whom would give up their window seat. “We get car sick,” said Betty.

A Word to the Wiseguy - Part 8 - A Craven Danger Mystery

In the trunk of a yellow Mercedes convertible coupe there slept a man who should have minded his own business.

A Word to the Wisguy - Part 12 - A Conclusion - A Craven Danger Mystery

By the time our heroes came across the yellow Mercedes convertible parked at the pier, Boris Buttinski was out of the trunk and heading to the end of the pier.
Cherry

Betty and Grumbles - Part One of Three - A Craven Danger Mystery

I now decided It has to be part one of three, not two. I don't know who's more clueless. Me or Craven.

Betty and Grumbles - Part Two of Three - A Craven Danger Mystery.

Soon after his meeting with Max Fritter, Craven Danger stepped out of his office to tell Betty they were going to Coney Island in search of Reuben Stuttered, the singing guitar player.

Craven Danger - True Detective

“Betty?” said Craven into the intercom. Betty flipped the answer switch and paused.
Cherry

Craven Danger at the Crossroads - Part Four - A Conclusion

“Please have a seat, Mr. Danger,” said principle Starch. Craven Danger took a look at the paddle hanging over the bookcase and winced.

Craven Danger at the Crossroads - Part One

“Please have a seat, Mr. Danger,” said the woman. “Thanks,” said Craven. “This is all so new ta me. I’m a little bit nervous."

Craven Danger at the Crossroads - Part Three

“Aren’t you a little old to be sent to the principle’s office?” said the little girl. “It wasn’t my fault,” said Craven. “It was that Billy Munson, the little bully!”
Cherry

Craven Danger at the Crossroads - Part Two

“All you have to do,” said the school attendant at St. Ignatius elementary school, “is to make sure no student gets run over. It’s simple. This is your stop sign and this is your whistle.
Cherry

Craven Danger Gets Knocked by Wood

Betty ran across the hall to Maxwell Fritter’s talent agency to get some ice for Craven Danger. Max was a man who liked to keep plenty of ice on hand. Not for drinks, though.

Craven Danger on the Rocks

“The usual, Mr. Danger?” said the bartender. “Yeah,” said Craven. “The usual. And don’t forget to load ‘er up this time.” “Comin' right up.”
Cherry

Craven Danger on the Run - Part Five

(A slight edit.) Craven Danger took aim and fired. “Hold still,” said Betty. “Don’t move a muscle. I see what your problem is, Mr. Danger.”
Cherry

Craven Danger on the Run - Part Four

Driving his cab across the George Washington bridge into New Jersey, Sidney Green kept one eye on the road and one eye on FDR, his German Shepard.
Cherry

Craven Danger on the Run - Part Seven - A Conclusion - Of Sorts

The chauffeur got out of the driver’s seat of the long black limo, opened the rear passenger door, and out stepped Randolph Rockport.

Craven Danger on the Run - Part Six

Had to pull this story in for spelling without a license. Won't I never leern?
Cherry

Craven Danger on the Run - Part Three

“I make ya feel insecure, inadequate and inferior?” said Betty. “I gotta tell ya, Mr. Danger, and please don’t take this too personal.

Craven Danger on the Run - Part Two

“So let me get this straight,” said Dr. Retch.
Cherry

Craven Danger on the Run- Part One

Craven Danger dodged one bullet. Than another. He ducked into a dark alley, turned on his heels and fired his weapon. Click! Click! Click!

Danger vs. Danger - The Betty Chronicles

“What are you doin’?” said Craven. “What does it look like I’m doing?” said the man. “You’re scraping my name off the door.”
Cherry

Jelly Donuts and Drunken Ducks - A Craven Danger Mystery

“Did you find anything in the classifieds, George?” “I did, Helen.” said her husband. “And I think we may have found our man. It says here, Craven Danger, Private Detective

Laugh, Clown, Laugh - The Betty Chronicles

How to sweep away some errors in this sordid tale.
Cherry

On the Good Ship Sharone - A Craven Danger Mystery

Don't mind me. I'm doing a little sweeping up of the ship.
Cherry

On the Good Ship Sharone II - A Craven Danger Mystery

For the first time in three years, Craven Danger stepped out through the front door of his office building without having to duck a hail storm of loose furniture and verbal abuse.
Cherry

Smelly Shorts - A Craven Danger Mystery

Craven Danger sat at his desk and pressed the button on his intercom. “Betty?” said Craven. “Yes, Mr. Danger?” said his secretary. “Where’s my bottle of scotch?”
Cherry

The Case of Fruit - A Craven Danger Mystery

Betty Fletcher had a lot on her mind. She was taking a night-course in math and was sitting at her desk studying for an exam. ”Mr. Danger,” she said over the intercom.

The Punch Line - The Betty Chronicles

Betty Danger flipped the switch on the intercom and told Craven Danger a joke. Craven Danger took a long sip of his coffee, and put the fly swatter down.
Cherry

The Singing Santa - Part 1 - A Craven Danger Mystery

Craven Danger flicked the switch on his intercom. “Betty?” “Yeah, Mr. Danger?” “I’m bored,” said Craven.
Cherry

The Singing Santa - Part 2 - A Craven Danger Mystery

“Mr. Danger!” said Betty. “I got ya a job! And ya don’t gotta solve a thing. All ya gotta do is sing, just like ya do in the office when ya think no one’s listening.”

The Singing Santa - Part 3 - A Craven Danger Mystery

Betty Fletcher climbed into the front seat of Sidney Green’s cab. “Hi ya, Sidney,” said Betty. “Where’s FDR?”

The Singing Santa - Part 4 - A Craven Danger Mystery

Craven Danger took a seat on the number six downtown train and fiddled with his ukulele. “Are you gonna sing to your reindeer?” said a little girl sitting opposite.

The Singing Santa - Part 5 - A Craven Danger Mystery

Betty Fletcher and Sidney Green stood at the foot of the Empire State Building and gazed up. “Ya think a big monkey could really climb this thing,” said Betty.
Cherry

The Singing Santa - Part 6 - A Conclusion - A Craven Danger Mystery

Craven Danger took a corner seat near the band stand and waited. “Just cool your heels right here, daddy-o," said the bandleader. “You’ll be on during our breaks.”
Cherry

True Confessions - A Craven Danger Mystery

Betty Fletcher leaned forward and pushed the button on her intercom. “Mr. Danger?” said Betty. “Yes?” said Craven Danger. “Would you come into my office, please.”

A Case of the Frights - A Craven Danger Mystery

Betty Danger placed her witches hat on the desk and flipped the switch on the intercom. “I didn’t mean ta scare ya, Mr. Danger,” said Betty. “Honest...
Gold cherry

Gone Before His Time - A Craven Danger Mystery

The elevated train came to a screeching halt above me. I bounded up the stairs three steps at a time. When I reached the top step I drew my weapon...
Cherry

King Kong For a Day - A Craven Danger Mystery

The great detective lifted the fiery red-head off her feet and carried her every step of the way to the top of the Empire State Building. “One step...
Cherry

Diamonds and Jelly Beans - A Craven Danger Mystery

The taxi careened down Fifth Avenue at break-neck speed; running red light after red light as the terrified holiday shoppers screamed and scattered...
Cherry

Sidney Takes Leicester Square - Part 1 - A Craven Danger Mystery

The talkative taxi driver cruised through Times Square. It was a Saturday night. A good night for fares. People were drunk and care-free. Drunk with...
Cherry

Sidney Takes Leicester Square - Part Two - A Craven Danger Mystery

“But I’ll tell ya about London first. That was the fun part of the war. The rest I’d rather not talk about. Leicester Square. Now that’s something to...
Cherry

Sidney Takes Leicester Square - Part 3 and Conclusion - A Craven Danger Mystery

“We no sooner hit the dance floor when I lose one of my shoes. And wouldn’t you know it had to be the good one. Well, there was so many jitter-...
Gold cherry
Poem of the week

Was the Night Before Christmas, See?

It was the night before Christmas, see? When all thru da flat Not a critter was fussin’ Not one smelly cat The socks wit’ da holes, was nailed ta da...
1 likes
Cherry

Santa Betty - A Craven Danger Mystery

The December night was cold and snowy as the street-corner Santa’s stood watch over their collection buckets and wished the bustling passersby a...
Cherry

Phooey On Sunshine and Daisies - A Craven Danger Mystery

Hello. My name is Craven Danger. And I'm a detective. But I'm clueless when it comes to love. What's it all mean, anyway? Betty says the whole...
1 likes
Cherry

Black and White - A Craven Danger Mystery

Craven Danger flipped the switch on his intercom. "Betty?" "Yeah, Mr. Danger?" "Didn't I ask you to bring me the newspaper?" "I seem ta remember ya...
1 likes
Cherry

The Bag of Dishes - A Craven Danger Mystery

“Hey, mister!” Craven Danger spun around on his heels and looked down at the street urchin. “What do want, kid. I’m in a hurry.” “Ya clumsy oaf! Ya...
1 likes

Read All About It! - A Craven Danger Mystery

"Extra! Extra! Read all about it! Get ya mornin’ paper here!” “Read all about what?” said Craven Danger. The newspaper boy eyed the private detective...

Was the Night Before Christmas, See? - The Video - a re-post from last year

This is a re-post from last Christmas. I thought I'd try to spread a little cheer this season. Wishing you all nothing but the most wonderful things...

I Forgot All About That - A Craven Danger Mystery

A special thanks to Stan for challenging me to write a parody of the Lerner and Loewe song I Remember It Well from Gigi. I Forgot All About That...
Gold cherry

The Scrambled Eggplant - A Craven Danger Mystery

“Who ain't got a sense of humor?" said Craven Danger. "I got more senses of humor than a flop house got booze hounds." "Ya gotta sense a humor like...
Cherry

The Summer I Lost My Nerve IP - A Craven Danger Mystery

How I get myself into these jams I’ll never know. But there I was, sittin’ on the Cyclone at Coney Island with Betty. She says I ain’t got the nerve...
Cherry

The Short and Sweet of Craven and Betty - One

"How many times do I have to tell ya, Betty? Ain't ain't a word." "Sorry, Mr. Danger. Let me repeat myself at the risk of soundin' de ja viewic." "De...

The Craven Danger Radio Hour Video - Part One - The Biggest Gun

Thought I'd take a stab at bringing Craven to life. http://youtu.be/3IGnMydJQDk The Craven Danger Radio Hour In Under Five Minutes D Craven Danger,...
Cherry

The Craven Danger Radio Hour Video - Part Two _ The Biggest Gun Goes British

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k-3qnZnuoWo The Craven Danger Radio Hour In Under Five Minutes D Craven Danger, where are you? G I’m in trouble D Won...
Cherry

Java Jive with Craven Danger

"Hey, brother, can ya spare a dime? I'm a little down on my luck." "Let's see," said Craven. "How about a buffalo-head nickel and two Indian-head...
Cherry

Hortense and Manny - Part One - A Craven Danger Mystery

"Where ya off to, Mr. Danger?" "I'll be back in two shakes of a lion's tail, Betty." "You better not be messin' with that new private detective Manny...
Cherry

Hortense and Manny - Part Two - A Craven Danger Mystery

Craven Danger flipped the switch on his intercom. “I know I’m no brainiac, Betty, but--” “And no one’s ever gonna accuse ya, neither, Mr. Danger. Not...
Cherry

Hortense and Manny - Part Three - A Craven Danger Mystery

Craven Danger put his hat over his face and plopped down on the second floor landing of the building housing the offices of Manny Moreso, private...

The Last-Time Letter with Song - A Craven Danger Mystery

Dear Betty, This is the last time I write you a last-time letter tellin' you the things I just can't say to your pretty kisser. Because the last time...
Gold cherry

In the Dark Again - A Craven Danger Mystery

Betty Felcher flipped the switch on the office intercom. "Mr. Danger?" "Yeah, Betty, what is it?" "What kinda name is Craven? Sounds depraved." "Well...
Cherry

Me Ol' China Joe - Part One - A Craven Danger Mystery

London, 1 September 1948 Sidney Green pulled his cab up to the curb and honked the horn. "You mind tellin' me again why we hadda haul this cab all...
Cherry

Me Ol' China Joe - Part Two - A Craven Danger Mystery

London, 1 September 1948 At The Hangman’s Noose on the Thames, Craven Danger hung his head over the railing and lost his morning breakfast in the...
Cherry

Me Ol' China Joe - Part Three of Three - A Craven Danger Mystery

London, 1 September 1948 At the Hangman's Noose on the Thames Betty took in the view from her table overlooking the river. I give Mr. Danger five...

A Halloween Kiss - A Craven Danger Mystery

As soon as his hair calmed down, Craven Danger took aim and fired another round. Fortunately, his aim was its usual pointless self, and his intended...
Gold cherry

A Craven Christmas

The snow fell in carefree flakes on the shoulders of the holiday shoppers outside Macy’s department store. “Hey, Betty. How do we know that guy in...
Cherry

Sunday in the Park with Craven

Sunday in the Park with Craven Central Park A Sunny day in April, 1948 “Step right up! Get your red hot poems here! Only two bits a piece! I write ‘...
Gold cherry

The Scrambled Detective - A Craven Danger Mystery

The Scrambled Detective All my life has been a silly dream with a lousy pay day and plenty of days off. Maybe I wasn’t born to be a detective at all...
1 likes
Cherry

A Case of the Glums - A Craven Danger Mystery

“Feelin’ any better yet, Mr. Danger?” “Nah, Betty, I still got a case a the glums. It’s enough ta make a guy wonder why he was ever put on this...
Cherry

Father Mulrooney - A Craven Danger Mystery

“Forgive me, Father, for I have sinned. My last confession was—” “Yeah, I know, Craven. It was twenty minutes ago. I ain’t even had a chance to wipe...

Besotted - A Craven Danger Mystery

“What else besides, ‘He died on Tuesday, and good riddance,’ would you like to put in this obituary before it goes to the printer? Seems like it’s...
Cherry

A Wiseguy Christmas - A Craven Danger Mystery

"Shine, mister?" “Aren't you a little young to be pulling down a day job?" said Craven. "Shouldn't you be in school, dunking some little sweetie's...
1 likes
Cherry

Take Me Out of the Ball Game - A Craven Danger Mystery

April 6, 1946 “Strike Three! Yer out!” “What! Are ya blind?” said Craven Danger. “That ball was so far inside I thought it was tryin’ ta kiss me!”...
Cherry

Take Me Out of the Ballgame II - A Craven Danger Mystery

Big Ben Bronski of Hell’s Kitchen stood in the batters box, listening to the taunts of the sparkling firecracker in the stands. He pointed his bat at...
Cherry

Hot Diggity Dog! A Craven Danger Mystery

“Please to bask in the glory of my extraordinary efforts, my friend!” “What the heck is that guy in a sweat about, Betty?” “He wants you to buy one...
Cherry

Junior G-Man - A Craven Danger Mystery

Craven Danger raised his rolled up newspaper and gave the desk a mighty whack. “I hate spiders!” “Well, let me tell ya somethin’,” said Betty, “he...
Cherry

The Grave Digger - A Craven Danger Mystery

Here comes Gravedigger again. Look at him. Positively drooling to break ground and put another notch on that old garrison belt of his. Singing under...
Cherry

Mustard Stains and Pigeon Poop - A Craven Danger Mystery

“Thank you,” said Craven Danger. Betty flipped the switch on her intercom. “Who ya thankin’ in there, Mr. Danger? Ain’t nobody in the office but us...
Cherry

Hang On To Your Fedora - A Craven Danger Mystery

“Lose the fedora,” said the big boss at the warehouse. “Night watchmen don’t wear no fedoras.” “But I ain’t myself without my fedora.” “And you ain’t...
Gold cherry

Craven Gets Stooled - A Craven Danger Mystery

“Hey, mister!“ said the boy. ”I was just gonna buy that!” Private investigator Craven Danger pulled the comic book closer to his nose and avoided eye...
Cherry

Benny the Lout - A Craven Danger Mystery

Betty watched as Benny the Lout slouched over Craven Danger’s desk and hurled abuse at the private investigator. “Look here, powder puff!” said Benny...
Gold cherry

White Fedora - A Craven Danger Mystery

Lucy Drake sat across from Craven Danger and lit a cigarette. “Ashtray?” “Receptacle!” said Craven. “What?” said Mrs. Drake. “Sorry, ma’am. I thought...
Cherry
Story of the week

The Nutty Detective - Part I - A Craven Danger Mystery

Private investigator Craven Danger sniffed the air in his office, made a face, then stepped out into the hallway. “What’s that smell?” “I‘m mopping...
Gold cherry

The Nutty Detective - Part II - A Craven Danger Mystery

Betty Felcher flipped the switch on her intercom. “Mr. Danger?” Craven Danger took a bite of his toasted corn muffin and sat back in his chair. “Mr...
Cherry

The Nutty Detective - Part III - A Craven Danger Mystery

“Mornin’, Betty. Sorry I’m late with the coffee. But I got to thinkin’ about yesterday and how I shouldn’t have thrown them Baker Street Irritaters...
Cherry

The Nutty Detective IV - Craven's Moriarty Complex - A Craven Danger Mystery

“Hey, Betty. What’s this letter doin’ on my desk?” “Is it movin’?” “No.” “Than it ain’t doin’ nothin’.” If I wanted to listen ta wisecracks, thought...
Cherry

The Nutty Detective V - Craven's Moriarty Complex - A Craven Danger Mystery

Betty, where the heck is Sidney? You said he’d give us a ride to the bowlin’ alley? And now it’s rainin’ all over my fedora!” “Stop grumblin’, Mr...
Cherry

The Nutty Detective VI - the Moriarty Complex - A Craven Danger Mystery

Meanwhile, at the asylum. . . “As I see it,” said Holmes. “All I need do is wiggle my way down the drainpipe and freedom is mine for the taking!” “...
Cherry

Moonlight on the Hudson - A Craven Danger Mystery

“Where the blue of the night, meets the gold of the day, someone waits for me. . .” “Mr. Danger?” “Yeah, Betty?” “When you get done torturing the...
Cherry

Craven Gets Stooled- Repost with Audio

https://soundcloud.com/hudsonmoon/craven-gets-stooled “Hey, mister!“ said the boy. ”I was just gonna buy that!” Private investigator Craven Danger...
Gold cherry

At the Butcher Shop - A Craven Danger Mystery

“You sure you didn’t have your thumb on that scale when you were doing the weighing?” said Craven. “Because that pound a baloney is looking an awful...
Cherry

Craven Gets Bugged - A Craven Danger Mystery

“How can I help you?” said Craven Danger. The gentleman sitting across from Craven, squirmed in his seat and spat a dirty word across the desk. “...
Cherry

The Sloucher - A Craven Danger Mystery

“Hey, Mr. Danger. Please! I need you to save me!” Little Joey Gains scooted under Craven Danger’s desk, locking himself in the fetal position. “Save...
Cherry

Look Before You Leap - A Craven Danger Mystery

“I don’t know how you can stand on your own two feet after the way you were wolfing down those plates at the automat last night.” “Cut it out, Betty...
Cherry
Story of the week

A Belated Craven Christmas Carol

“Marley was dead, to begin with,” said Betty. “There is no doubt about that. The register of his burial—“ “I wish they’d of buried that story right...
1 likes
Gold cherry
Story of the week

Craven Danger and the Case of the Ouija

“What are you doin’ back here, Betty? Can’t you see I’m trying to work?” Betty Feltcher dropped the package on Craven Danger’s desk and turned to...
Cherry

Dwayne Delivers - A Craven Danger Mystery

“She was last seen in the vicinity of nine-thirty AM — that’s anti-Mediterranean time to the unbeknownst — in the possession of what looked to me to...
1 likes
Cherry

Vengeance is My Middle Name - A Craven Danger Mystery

“Oh, yeah! Well, do me a favor, Betty. When you climb down from know-it-all mountain, go jump in who-asked-you-in-the-first-place lake!” “Suit...
Cherry

Dwayne Delivers Again - A Craven Danger Mystery

“Good morning! Thanks for calling the Coffee Pot on the Corner! This is Dwayne speaking! How may I be of service?” “Well, I’m glad the last thing you...
Gold cherry

The Coffee Pot on the Corner - A Craven Danger Mystery

Steve Papadopoulos is the proprietor of the Coffee Pot on the Corner. With ten mostly stable stools at the counter and five like tables along the...
Cherry

Father Mulrooney Makes a House Call - A Craven Danger Mystery

Lord, get me through the next thirty minutes and I’ll never again rage like a lunatic when I find Sister Helen in my whiskey cabinet. Also, let me...
Cherry

Dwayne Dishes on Craven Danger's Dander

When Betty Feltcher walked through the door of the Coffee Pot on the Corner, nine squeaky stools turned counter-clockwise. “Good morning, Miss...
Gold cherry

Father Mulrooney Takes a Ride - A Craven Danger Mystery

“Where to, Father?” “Just drive around, Sidney. I need to clear my head. I have nowhere to go, and I don’t want to go alone.” Sidney Green pulled his...
1 likes
Gold cherry

Patience and Fortitude with Father Mulrooney - A Craven Danger Mystery

May 20, 1948 “This is a funny place to hear my confession, Father. I feel a little exposed.” “This is the perfect place, Craven. The crack of dawn...
1 likes
Gold cherry
Story of the week

The Christmas Coaster

“Whatcha doing there, Sidney?” “Me? I’m writing.” “On my beer coasters?” Sidney Green looked up at the bartender and looked down at his empty glass...
Gold cherry

Craven Unraveled

“What’s with the limp, Mr. Danger?” Craven stopped at Betty’s desk and yelped into his closed fist. “That rotten McDougall kid kicked me in the shin...
Cherry

Craven on Patrol

“Hey, Craven!” Detective Sergeant Dowd pulled his patrol car to the curb and signaled for Craven to get in. “No, not in the back. You’re sitting up...
Cherry

Craven on Patrol - Part II

“Okay, Craven. We got off to a poor start yesterday.” “I’ll say we did. I can’t believe you made me walk home.“ “Sorry, dear boy. It isn’t everyday...
Cherry

Craven on Patrol - Part III - the Finale

“Listen, Craven,” said Sergeant Dowd. “This blue ’46 Plymouth with the bullet holes is being driven by a gorilla named Morty. He’s the one put all...
Gold cherry

Craven Gets Flashed

“Say cheese, Mr. Danger!” FLASH! “Ah, geez, my eyes!” Craven Danger staggered along the edge of the subway platform with his thoughts on finding some...
1 likes
Gold cherry
Story of the week

Craven Gets Flashed II

“Camera set at f/16 and 1/200 of a second. Distance set at ten feet. Bag full of photo plates and bulbs. All textbook Weegee. Then there’s our...
Cherry

Craven Gets Flashed III

“You hired a what?” said Betty. “A photographer. To document my cases and get us in the paper. You should have seen her last night.” “Seen who?” “...
Gold cherry

Craven Gets Flashed IV

“The railroad flat above the photo shop was typical of its Third Avenue neighbors. You climbed a flight of stairs; hit the landing; walked a few...
Cherry

Craven Gets Flashed V

“My tattoos used to be more glorious,” said Mildred. “When I wasn’t so wrinkled, and before these girls decided to head south. I have two dead...
Cherry

Craven Gets Flashed VI

Jenny Wilkins made her way across Third Avenue as the roar of the El came to a stop at the 89th St. station. She was determined to make her way to...
Cherry

Craven Gets Flashed VIII

Delaney’s was sprinkled with its usual mid day barstool denizens: Mel, Joey, and an assortment of guys who just got fired. “What can I get you ladies...
Cherry

Craven Gets Flashed IX

“It’s starting to snow, FDR. Those ladies better hurry. My tires don’t like getting their feet wet anymore than I do. And downtown’s a long way to go...
Cherry

Craven Gets Flashed X

As Jenny Wilkins was about to pull away from the curb — in what can only be described as a wing and a prayer on wheels —- there was a load rap on her...
Gold cherry

Craven Gets Flashed XI

From the backroom of Ramone’s Tattoo Parlor, Madame Roza took a peak through a hole in the closed curtain and let out a hearty beer belch. “I do not...
Cherry

Craven Gets Flashed XII

It started with the Pizza. It ended with a bloody martini. That’s what the papers said. And that photo . Hoo boy! Talk about a tabloid blood and guts...
Cherry

Craven Gets Flashed XIII

Story endings are a bit like life itself. Some end with a gentle sigh. Others with a scratch of the head and a What the hell was that all about? feel...
Cherry

Craven Gets Flashed XIV

The following is a blow-by-blow account of the night’s main event at Ramone’s Pizza: Good evening, Mr. and Mrs. America and all the ships at sea...
Cherry

Craven Gets Flashed XV

I got some great shots, Mr. Danger,” said Jenny. “I had Ramone looking bloodier than anything at the Valentine’s Day Massacre. Did you finish writing...
Gold cherry
Story of the week

Craven Gets Flashed XVI

“Why don’t ya read to me the news story that Craven wrote,” said Sergeant Dowd.” “Hold on,” said Jenny. “Let me soak in this heat for a minute. It’s...
Cherry

Craven Gets Flashed XVII

“Kenny, are you coming to bed?” “Whilst the hounds chomp at our very feet! I should say not. The streets are crawling with vermin, and one must take...
Cherry

Craven Gets Flashed XVIII

Outside the station house Sergeant Dowd climbed in behind the wheel of the paddy wagon. “Try to have it back at a decent hour, sarge,” said officer...
Cherry

Craven Gets Flashed XIX

“As his wife slept, Kenny the dry cleaner tip-toed out the front door and descended the flight of stairs to the lobby. “Mrs. Hudson!” said Kenny. ”I...
Cherry

Craven Gets Flashed XX

In the back room of his shop above the Village Tavern stands Freddie Moynihan, proprietor of Village Oddities. Freddie is in a snit with a sleepy...
Cherry

Craven Gets Flashed XXI

At the Village Tavern Betty and Mildred were seated at a table near the stage. “Do you ever get the feeling you’ve been forgotten,” said Betty. “...
1 likes
Gold cherry

Craven Gets Flashed XXII

At the Houston Street elevated station two figures in matching traveling cloaks hurried down the stairwell. “Wait up, Kenny!” said Jenny. “You’re...
Cherry

Craven Gets Flashed XXIII

At his shop above the Village Tavern Freddie Moynihan pounded the wood floor with the heel of his shoe. “Quiet down there! I’m trying to listen to...
Cherry

Craven Gets Flashed XXIV

On Bleecker street, the Village Tavern bouncers eyed the police officer as he gazed up at the Village Oddities window. “You boys ain’t gonna cause me...
Cherry

Craven Gets Flashed 25

It’s been a long hiatus, folks, and we’ll return to the Craven Danger Radio Hour in a moment, but first a word from our sponsor: ”Don’t have an...
Cherry

Craven Gets Flashed 26

When last we left our hero he was being dragged from the Village Tavern by a beefy bouncer named Troy. Once out the door, Troy planted the befuddled...
Cherry

Craven Gets Flashed 27

They Came In Looking for Coffee, But All They Got Was Dead By Dwayne Dobbins It was a burnt toast kinda mornin’ as the brutal rays of the Summer sun...
Cherry

Craven Gets Flashed 28

The pounding door caused Dwayne Dobbins to drop his knife and fork. “Do you suppose doors ever pound on their own?” he said. “What sort of question...
Cherry

Craven Gets Flashed 29

Jenny jimmied her way into Mr. Moynahan’s Village Oddities shop. The rest of the crew followed. “Would you look at this place,” said Craven. “It’s a...
Cherry

Craven Gets Flashed 30

At the coffee shop counter Detective Raven Stranger poked his egg yolks with a fork and screamed. “Aaarrggh!” “You sure are mad at those eggs,” said...
1 likes
Gold cherry

Craven Gets Flashed 31

When last we left our heroes. . . Betty and Mildred were at the Village Tavern waiting for the bartender to introduce Betty; who was expected to sing...
2 likes
Cherry

Craven Gets Flashed 32

“The beers are on me, Dwayne” “Thanks, Mr. Moynahan. And let me say that having my first beer with you is an honor I can’t express without wanting to...
2 likes
Cherry

Renaldo Goes to Church

“You ever fall asleep in church,” said Renaldo.” “It depends on who’s doing the preaching,” said Frederick. Renaldo lifted a wing and pecked at a bit...
Gold cherry
Story of the week

Renaldo in Love

“You ever been in love, Renaldo?” Renaldo gave Frederick a little nuzzle, then sat back on his haunches. “Once upon a time I decided to hitch a ride...
2 likes
Cherry

Renaldo Goes Nuts

“Well, look what the cat drug in,” said Frederick. It was a statement so cringe-worthy that Renaldo placed a wing over his breast and shuddered. “Don...
Gold cherry

A Pigeon’s Delight IP

“You ever crap on a guy happens by here all the time that wears a seersucker suit and straw hat?” said Renaldo. “Can’t say as I have,” said Frederick...
1 likes
Cherry

Sorry Ends and Bagel Crumbs

“You okay, Renaldo? You’re looking gloomy?” “Frederick, ol’ chum, I feel like the sorry ends on a loaf of bread; unwanted, but tolerated. I should’ve...
1 likes
Cherry

Something Stupid

I've been going through some older stuff and came across one I never used. Thought I'd put it out there. *** Something Stupid Betty flipped the...
1 likes
Cherry

Craven Gets Addressed

“You’re shoes are too tight.” “”What?” The janitor ran his mop over Craven’s shoes and stood his ground. “And they’re awful dirty.” “Hey! Are you...
1 likes
Cherry

The Goings On at Ned's

Ned the bartender was in a mood. “Bugsy! Stop eating them roaches! I’m getting complaints from the exterminator. I should be cheering you on; you’re...
2 likes
Gold cherry

An Economy of Words at Ned's

He was an economy of words that first day he walked in here , thought Ned. Now he won’t shut up. Craven Danger sat at the end of the bar telling...
2 likes
Gold cherry
Story of the week

The Bothers

“Everybody! Out! Now!” “Excuse me?” said Ned “That’s it!” said Stanley. “Now you’re all gonna drown!” Ned stood back and watched as Stanley the...
1 likes
Cherry
Story of the week

The Dinghy - A Ned's Tavern Tale

Max and Stinky sat in the dinghy and cracked open two beers. “Tuna sandwich?” said Stinky. “Sure. It may be the only kinda fish we’ll see all day.”...
1 likes
Gold cherry

The Phone Booth Incident - A Ned's Tavern Tale

“I solved a case today,” said Craven. “It started with the flick of an ash from a ‘46 Buick.” Craven Danger stubbed out his cigarette in the half-...
1 likes
Cherry

A View From the Cab - A Sidney Green Story

“Look at all those buzzing bees out there,” said the gentleman passenger, “running hither and thither to accomplish life's goals. Capitalists on...
Gold cherry
Story of the week

A View From the Cab - The Debate 1948

“Where to?” said Sidney. “23rd and Third,” said the man. “Sit back and enjoy the ride, mister. And say hello to my pooch.” The man reached over the...
2 likes