Escape - The Adversary

Escape's "The Adversary" takes place among the pearling fleet that once flourished on Thursday Island (Waiben), Queensland. It is based on the short story of the same name by John Russell, which is available in the book The Red Mark: And Other Stories (1919).

John Wetherbee, master of the lugger Fancy Free, arrives on Thursday Island and quickly takes offense at the local jest that the only honest man there...came by land. He challenges anyone to call him dishonest, and in no time, everyone accepts him as an exceedingly honest man. Though there are things about him and his crew that are questionable...

Captain Wetherbee appears to be a friend to all, but soon he runs into an old acquaintance who knows better. Mr.Selden, a former deacon, wants Wetherbee to include him in his latest "enterprise" and Wetherbee agrees. Soon however, the two are at odds over Wetherbee's plans to sink a ship carrying a fortune in pearls.

"The Adversary" was adapted for radio and directed by Norman MacDonnell. Lawrence Dobkin, John Dehner, and Ben Wright were featured. Also appearing were Alec Hartford, Charlie Lung, and Barney Phillips. Vic Perrin was the narrator. This episode aired on May 6, 1954.

. Download Escape_1954.05.06_The Adversary.mp3

(Image from Wikipedia)