Escape and Suspense!

Suspense - You Can Die Laughing

In "You Can Die Laughing," a wife murders her husband to protect her lover.

Betty Willoughby is annoyed by her husband Herbert's fondness for practical jokes and stupid humor. Herbert thinks he is a laugh riot, but Betty doesn't.

How does she put up with Herbert? One of her husband's employees, Jack, is also her lover. Unfortunately, Jack has been stealing from the company, and Herbert has found out. He plans to have Jack hauled off to jail, but if that happens, Herbert may also find out about their romance!

Jack and Betty decide that the only way to prevent the truth from being discovered is to make Herbert disappear.

"You Can Die Laughing" was written by Robert Arthur, Jr. and produced/directed by Bruno Zirato, Jr. Evelyn Juster played Betty and Larry Haines played Jack. Ian Martin played Herbert Willoughby and Lee Vines played Jolly George Gordon. This episode aired on July 30, 1961.

. Download Suspense_1961.07.30_You Can Die Laughing.mp3

(Image from Morguefile)

Suspense - The Taming of the Beast

In "The Taming of the Beast," a woman runs away with her psychologist...and then regrets it.

Nora is a volatile lady. Mark, her husband, can't cope with her temper, and their marriage is in trouble. So, Mark asks one of their friends, a psychologist named Paul Ferrari, to help them. Ferrari agrees to analyze Nora, but soon the two become more than just doctor and patient.

When Mark unexpectedly kills himself, Nora and Doctor Ferrari happily run away and get married. Nora may be a heartless and demanding woman, but she is also rich. Her new husband enjoys the life of leisure she provides, but knows it would be even better without Nora!

"The Taming of the Beast" was written by Robert L. Richards and Charles L. Smith. William Spier produced and directed. Helmut Dantine and Nancy Kelly starred. This episode aired on March 29, 1945.

.  Download Suspense_1945.03.29_Taming Of The Beast.mp3

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Suspense - Love, Honor, or Murder

In "Love, Honor, or Murder," a taxi driver must choose between doing the right thing and doing what his wife wants.

Harry is a taxi driver for the Peerless Cab Company. One evening, he finds a wallet containing $12,000 in his cab and decides to take it home to show his wife. Harry knows that the wallet belongs to one of his regular customers, and he intends to return it right away. He only brought the wallet home because he thought his wife, Helen, would enjoy the novelty of seeing so much money.

Helen doesn't enjoy the novelty. She wants the money! Harry doesn't want to get into trouble, but Helen threatens to leave him if he returns the wallet. She tells him that she knows a way to keep the money and not get caught. He may not be good at taking chances, but she is. All Harry has to do is follow her instructions and everything will be fine.

"Love, Honor, or Murder" was written by Larry Marcus and produced/directed by Antony Ellis. Charlotte Lawrence and William Conrad starred. Also appearing were Barney Phillips, Helen Kleeb, Charles Seel, Jack Kruschen, and William Justine. This episode aired on August 9, 1955.

.  Download Suspense_1955.08.09_Love, Honor, or Murder.mp3

Here also, is an earlier version of this story that starred Cathy Lewis and Elliott Lewis. William Spier produced and Antony Ellis directed. This episode aired on August 9, 1950.

. Download Suspense_1950.06.29_Love, Honor, or Murder.mp3

Rev. 7/20/08

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Suspense - Nobody Loves Me

Suspense's "Nobody Loves Me" stars Peter Lorre in a sad and disturbing episode about a man who expresses his own agony through murder.

As the episode opens, Joe Reece enters a busy police station and pulls out a gun. He is willing to surrender himself, and the whereabouts of a missing woman, but first the officers must listen to his life story.

The story of how he became a murderer began when...

"Nobody Loves Me" was written by Herbert Clyde Lewis and Silvia Richards. William Spier produced and directed. Peter Lorre, in the last of his six appearances on Suspense, starred as Joe Reece. Wally Maher and Joseph Kearns appeared as the police officers. This episode aired on August 30, 1945.

. Download Suspense_1945.08.30_Nobody_Loves_Me.mp3

Here also is an intriguing video of this Suspense broadcast that was created by adding a simple series of illustrations. At first, this video moves slowly, but give it a few minutes, and you wil be hooked into this story!

For more information about this YouTube video, "Peter Lorre: Nobody Loves Me Pt. 1," click here.

For Part Two of "Peter Lorre: Nobody Loves Me" click here.

For Part three of "Peter Lorre: Nobody Loves Me" click here.

(Image of Peter Lorre by Yousuf Karsh from Wikimedia Commons)

Suspense - A Good Neighbor

In "A Good Neighbor," a man is menaced by the helpfulness of the old lady who lives next door.

Andrew Burt is a thief who has stolen a fortune in diamonds from his employer. Having fled New York, he travels to Maine and the house on the coast where he intends to hide. Although the house is in an isolated area, he soon discovers that he has a neighbor nearby. Mrs. Poe is an elderly lady with vivid premonitions about the dangers that surround them, and she insists on discussing her visions with him.

Mr. Burt wants to be alone so he can execute the next stage of his get-a-way plan, but Mrs. Poe wants to share everything with her new neighbor. Will she kill him with her kindness, or will he kill her to keep her quiet?

"A Good Neighbor" was written by David Riehl and produced/directed by William N. Robson. Jeff Chandler and Virginia Gregg starred. This episode aired on March 31, 1957.

.  Download Suspense_1957.03.31_AGoodNeighbor.mp3

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Suspense - Sight Unseen

In "Sight Unseen," a journalist is trailed by mysterious men in bowler hats.

As the episode opens, a Scotland Yard detective relates to his colleague the tale of an odd case from many years earlier. The story is about a man named Collin Farragut and the peculiar letter that he had written to the detective.

In his letter, Farragut described the day that two men in business suits and bowler hats began to follow him. Not only did they follow him, but they insisted that he accompany them! The more that Farragut refused, the more determined they became. Who were the men and what did they want?

"Sight Unseen" was written, produced, and directed by Antony Ellis. Terence de Marney starred as Farragut. Also appearing were: Betty Harford, John Dodsworth, Richard Peel, John Irving, Richard Ahern, Charlie Lung, Eric Snowden, and Ray Lawrence. This episode aired on April 26, 1955.

.  Download Suspense_1955.04.26_Sight Unseen.mp3

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Suspense - Murder for Myra

In "Murder for Myra," an unhappy wife convinces her boyfriend to murder her husband.

Ernest Cobb is crouched in a closet with a hammer in his hand. He doesn't want to commit murder, but he has promised his girlfriend, Myra, that he will kill her husband. She has left him specific instructions on how to enter her house, where to hide, and where to find the hammer. Now, he must wait in the dark for them to return from a party.

In the wee hours of the morning, Myra and her husband return home. Ernest has followed Myra's instructions, but will he be able to do it? Will he be able to murder a man he has never met?

"Murder for Myra" as written for Suspense by Paul Bernard and Lee Horton. William Spier produced/directed. Cathy Lewis and Lloyd Nolan starred. This episode aired on August 9, 1945.

.  Download Suspense__1945.08.09_Murder_For_Myra.mp3

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Suspense - A Little Matter of Memory

In "A Little Matter of Memory," an English couple find themselves trapped in their home while a maniac-at-large prowls the countryside.

Edward and his wife, Joan, are staying in an isolated cottage on the Moors while Edward convalesces from ill health. One day, while they are out for a walk, they return to find two notes on their door. One is a rambling, threatening letter from a stranger, and the other is a warning from the local curate about a dangerous maniac on the loose. Both the stranger and the curate promise to come back later that evening. How will they know which one is which?

"A Little Matter of Memory" was based on the story by James Helvick and adapted for Suspense by James Poe. James Helvick was a pseudonym for Francis Claud Cockburn (1904-1981), a radical British journalist and novelist. (He was also the cousin of Evelyn Waugh.) Norman MacDonnell produced and directed. Lawrence Dobkin played Edward and Paula Winslowe played Joan. Also appearing were Edgar Barrier, Joseph Kearns, and Richard Peel. This episode aired on September 30, 1954.

. Download Suspense_1954.09.30_ALittleMatterofMemory.mp3

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Suspense - The Red-Headed Woman

In "The Red-Headed Woman," Lucille Ball plays a dangerous woman on the run, and Desi Arnaz plays the man... who gets in her way.

Linda is a secretary for the Jenson Company in Kansas City. One day, she gets a call from her fiance, Frank, telling her that he has met someone else. For two years, her life had revolved around him, but now, she decides to live for herself. Linda wants to get away, and for that she needs money, so she steals a gun from her boss and the payroll money from the company safe.

LInda hits the road and drives west towards Texas. On the car radio, there is a news report about a Texas bank robbery and the two dangerous criminals that are now on the loose. Not long afterwards, she meets a man stranded on the side of the road. He asks her for a ride, but she hesitates because he matches the description of one of the robbers. Is he the man the police are looking for? If so, where is his red-headed accomplice?

"The Red-Headed Woman" was written by Nancy J. Cleveland, produced by William Spier, and directed by Norman MacDonnell. Paul Frees was the announcer. This was the first of two appearances that Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz made together on Suspense. (Lucille Ball made four other appearances on Suspense on her own.) At the time this episode aired on November 17, 1949, Lucille Ball was still appearing on the CBS radio show My Favorite Husband. The television show I Love Lucy began in October of 1951.

.  Download Suspense_1949.11.17_The Red-Headed Woman.MP3

(Image of Lucille Ball in Best Foot Forward (1943) from Wikimedia Commons)

Suspense - The Silver Shoe

Suspense's "The Silver Shoe" tells the story of a young sailor who encounters the girl he thought he had lost forever.

Joey lost his first love, Cory, two years ago, but one day, he suddenly sees a girl in a drug store who looks just like her. In her mannerisms, dress, and speech, she is just like Cory. Joey follows the girl to her job at the Silver Shoe Dance Hall, and in a daze, he makes his way towards her.

She tells him that he reminds her of someone, but she isn't sure who. Joey sits with her for a while, but soon they are separated. Was it really Cory that he met or was it his imagination?

"The Silver Shoe" was written by Robert Readick and produced/directed by Fred Hendrickson. William Mason, Toni Darnay, Dick Heath, Rita Lloyd, Gertrude Werner, and Ralph Camargo were featured. This episode aired on August 12, 1962.

.  Download Suspense_1962.08.12_TheSilverShoe.mp3

(Image from Morguefile)

Suspense - The Big Heist

Suspense's "The Big Heist" is supposedly based on fact, but they don't tell us which fact. This story about liars may not make complete sense, but the performances are entertaining.

Jim Scott is a hustler and a liar with a knack for sounding believable. He is new in town and making enough money at the pool tables to get by, but soon he meets Martin Collins. Jim thought he had Martin picked for a sucker, but it turns out that Martin is a better hustler than he is.

Martin likes the way that Jim talks and introduces him to John Barry, a notable bank robber. The two of them need a third man for a big heist. Jim doesn't want to go to jail, but they assure him that everything will go smoothly. All Jim has to do is keep the security guard in front of the bank busy, and the rest will be easy. So Jim agrees to take part in the heist, but when the time comes, he doesn't exactly follow their plan.

"The Big Heist" was written by E. Jack Neuman and produced/directed by Elliott Lewis. John Hodiak, in the fourth of his seven appearances on Suspense, starred. Herb Butterfield played John Barry and Joseph Kearns played Martin Collins. Also appearing were Ted Bliss, Charles Calvert, Bert Holland, and Junius Matthews. This episode aired on December 1, 1952.

.  Download Suspense_1952.12.01_TheBigHeist.mp3

(Image from Wikimedia Commons)

Suspense - That Real Crazy Infinity

In "That Real Crazy Infinity," two beatnick musicians discover what is really important to them.

Bud and Lou are musicians stuck in a small town. They need to make a fast buck so that they can get back to New York City, but the job opportunities appear to be limited.

Soon, their luck changes. The man from the radio repair shop offers them the chance to make some quick money, and all they have to do is deliver electronic equipment to the home of a scientist. Bud and Lou soon discover that no one else wants the job because everyone is afraid of the isolated house in the woods where the delivery needs to be made. The people in town think that Professor Norville Hagen's place is haunted with "voices from the grave."

As it turns out, Professor Hagen's place really is filled with the sounds and voices from the past. He has been working on an "Epinaphone," an invention that tunes in to sounds from the past that have gone on into infinity. Bud quickly realizes that the true opportunity to make money is by selling "lost recordings" made with the "Epinaphone," but the professor and Lou have different plans.

"That Real Crazy Infinity" was written by Richard W. Dowling and produced/directed by Bruno Zirato, Jr.. Jack Grimes and Richard Holland starred. Court Benson played Professor Hagen. Also appearing were Robert Dryden, Robert Readick, and Athena Lorde. This episode aired on May 27, 1962.

. Download Suspense_1962.05.27_ThatRealCrazyInfinity.mp3

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Suspense - A Friend of Daddy's

In "A Friend of Daddy's," a houseguest with a strange fixation on long hair becomes a scary nuisance.

As the episode opens, Butch Bailey is looking for the home of his old army buddy. When he runs into a little boy who is also named Butch, he realizes that it is the son of his friend. The little boy takes Butch home to introduce him to his mother, Louise.

Louise knows that Butch saved her husband's life during the Korean War, but this is the first time they have met. Butch seems nice at first, but he is spellbound by Louise's long hair. When her husband, Pete, comes home and finds his old buddy there, he invites Butch to stay with them. Louise is reluctant to go along with her husband's hospitality, but Pete wants to be generous to his friend. The next day, Louise does some checking and finds out where Butch has really been since the war ended. Will her husband believe her?

"A Friend of Daddy's" was written, produced, and directed by William N. Robson. Frank Lovejoy starred as Butch Bailey. Also appearing were Cathy Lewis as Louise, Dick Beals, and Bill Quinn.  This episode aired on May 17, 1959.

.  Download Suspense_1959.05.17_AFriendOfDaddy's.mp3

(Image from Wikimedia Commons)

Suspense - The Black Path of Fear

In "The Black Path of Fear," a woman tries to escape her gangster husband by running away to Cuba with her new love. Before their first night in Havana is through, she is knifed and her lover is framed for the murder.  The story is taken from the 1944 Cornell Woolrich novel The Black Path of Fear, the fifth in Woolrich's Black series. 

As the episode opens, Bill Scott and Eve Spinelli are taking a carriage ride through Havana. They appear to be a couple of carefree tourists, but their happiness is shadowed by their fear of Eve's husband. It hadn't taken Mr. Spinelli long to find out where his wife and her chaffeur had gone.

The carriage driver deposits them at the entrance of a popular nightclub called "Sloppy Joe's," and they go in for a drink. When a photographer takes a souvenir photograph of them, Eve is stabbed from behind. The police blame Bill, but he is innocent. He tells the police that the murder weapon wasn't his knife, but the more Bill tries to prove that, the worse he makes it look for himself. How can Bill Scott prove to the police he was framed? With some unexpected help from a prostitute named Midnight, he may have a chance.

Suspense's version abbreviates the novel by leaving out the opium fiends, sinister Chinese smugglers, and violent ending, but it is still a good adaptation. The Black Path of Fear was also adapted for the premier episode of the Suspense television show in 1949, but unfortunately, that episode is not currently available.The television version aired under the title of "Revenge."

The 1946 film noir The Chase, starring Robert Cummings, was loosely-based on The Black Path of Fear.

"The Black Path of Fear" was adapted for Suspense by Robert Tallman and was produced/directed by William Spier. Brian Donlevy starred. Also appearing were Lurene Tuttle, Hans Conried, Wally Maher, and John McIntire. This episode aired on August 31, 1944.

. Download Suspense_1944.08.31_Black_Path_Of_Fear.mp3

Suspense presented this story again two years later with Cary Grant in the lead role. Also appearing were Cathy Lewis, Elliott Lewis, and Wally Maher. William Spier produced/directed. This episode aired on March 7, 1946. (The sound quality of this episode is not the best.)

.  Download Suspense_1946.03.07_Black_Path_Of_Fear.mp3

(Image from 1946 Avon edition) 

Suspense - Consequence

In "Consequence," Jimmy Stewart plays a man who escapes his unhappy marriage by taking a dangerous chance.

At their ten-year class reunion, Dr. Phil Martin meets his old college chum, Ted Wolf, and invites him back to his house for dinner. Phil and his wife, Gwen, appear to have a perfect life, but later, Phil admits to Ted that he is trapped in an unhappy marriage and a meaningless career. Later that night, an accidental fire burns down Phil's house while both Gwen and Phil are out. Everyone assumes that the body found inside is that of Dr. Phil Martin, but it is actually Dr.Ted Wolf. Seizing this unexpected opportunity, Phil assumes Ted's identity and runs away to Los Angeles.

"Consequence" was written by Vladimir Pozner and George Sklar and was adapted for radio by Robert L. Richards. William Spier produced/directed. James Stewart, in the first of his four appearances on Suspense, starred as Dr. Phil Martin. Cathy Lewis played Jo. This episode aired on February 21, 1946.

.  Download Suspense_1946.02.21_Consequence.mp3

Jimmy Stewart appeared in the same role again three years later. Anton M. Leader produced/directed. Betty Lou Gerson played Gwen.  This episode aired on May 19, 1949.

.  Download Suspense_1949.05.19_Consequence.MP3

(Image of James Stewart from Wikimedia Commons)

Suspense - Script by Mark Brady

"Script by Mark Brady" is the story of a writer who feels betrayed by his trophy wife and his best friend.

Mark Brady is a busy and successful scriptwriter of murder mysteries. His beautiful wife, Mary, feels that their friend Jason is more appreciative of her intellect than he is. Mark teases her about Jason's adoration of her, but when his suspicions about the two are aroused, Mark realizes that he has let things go too far. He needs Mary, even if it is only for the sake of his ego.  In Mark's mind, the only solution is to get their friend out of the way.

"Script by Mark Brady" was written by Celeste Bolis and William N. Robson. Marie Windsor, notable B-movie and film noir actress of the late 1940's, starred as Mary. Victor Perrin, Ben Wright, and Sam Pierce also appeared. This episode aired on March 22, 1959.

.  Download Suspense_1959.03.22_ScriptByMarkBrady.mp3

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Love, Marriage, and Suspense

June is a month for weddings, happy couples, and cake. Yes, once again, it is that romantic time of year when many couples commit to a life of love and domestic bliss.

What could possibly go wrong? Suspense can answer that.

Before you head down the aisle, take the time to learn a few lessons from the great storytellers of old time radio.

While most of Suspense's cautionary tales were about crime and traffic safety, they also delved into the subject of dangerous relationships.

In "Everything Will Be Different," a woman marries a man who loves alcohol more than her, and the results are deadly. Cathy Lewis starred. This episode aired on August 9, 1959.

.  Download Suspense_1959.08.09_EverythingWillBeDifferent.mp3

In "End of the Road," a model marries a man who beats her, yet she can't tear herself away from him. Bernard Grant and Rita Lloyd starred. This episode aired on January 31, 1960.

.  Download Suspense_1960.01.31_EndoftheRoad.MP3

Then, there are the marriages that never should have happened...

In "A Ring for Marya," Cornel Wilde shows off his flair for accents while portraying one of the most despicable husbands in all of Suspensedom. This episode aired on December 28, 1950.

.  Download Suspense_1950.12.28_ARingForMyra.mp3

"When the Bough Breaks" tells the story of a woman who marries a man that she "picked up" on a beach to help her murder her grandfather. Not surprisingly, their relationship is plagued by trust issues. Rosalind Russell starred.

. Download Suspense_1951.05.03_WhentheBoughBreaks.mp3

"Please Believe Me" is the story of a marriage between a bohemian and a rich girl that starts out badly and then gets worse. Joan Lorring and Robert Readick starred. This episode aired on January 28, 1962. (The sound quality of this recording is not the best.)

. Download Suspense_1962.01.28_PleaseBelieveMe.mp3

So, whether you are about to make your first trip down the aisle or your fifth, don't make excuses for your doubts. Remember, Suspense warned you.

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Suspense - Salvage

In "Salvage," Van Johnson plays a pilot hired to help retrieve a fortune in gold from the bottom of the ocean.

Danny Connor's troubles began when he received an unexpected visit from his former girlfriend, Gloria. Her husband, Wendell H. Davis, wanted to hire a pilot, and she suggested that Danny would be right for the job. Her husband's company planned to search for sunken treasure in the Carribbean, and they needed a pilot to scout the waters by plane.

Danny accepted the job but soon realized he had become involved in more than he had agreed to. Now, he is at sea on an old, badly-equipped ship that belongs to his ex-girlfriend's shady husband..."What sense was there to taking a job like that? No sense."

"Salvage" was written by Sidney Renthal, produced by William Spier, and directed by Norman MacDonnell. Van Johnson, in the third of his five appearances on Suspense, starred as Danny Connor. Joseph Kearns played Wendell H. Davis.  Also appearing were Cathy Lewis, Sam Edwards, and William Conrad. This episode aired on April 6, 1950.

. Download Suspense_1950.04.06_Salvage.mp3

(Image from Wikipedia)

Suspense - Sequel to Murder

"Sequel to Murder" is the story of man who lacks imagination. So, he uses someone else's.

Frank Gault is a successful editor at a large publishing house. One day his boss assigns him a murder-mystery to evaluate called "Death on My Hands." On that same day, Frank's girlfriend, Bess, tells him that she is tired of waiting and that he must divorce his wife. Frank doesn't know how to solve his problems until he reads the mystery that his boss gave him and decides to murder his wife by imitating the crime. Afterwards, no one suspects that Frank had anything to do with his wife's death, but the writer who dreamed up the story knows better.

"Sequel to Murder" was written by E. Jack Neuman and produced/directed by Elliott Lewis. Whitfield Connor starred as Frank. Also appearing were Joseph Kearns, Jack Kruschen, Charlotte Lawrence, and Betty Lou Gerson. This episode aired on June 22, 1954.

. Download Suspense_1954.06.22_SequelToMurder.mp3

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Suspense - The High Wall

In "The High Wall," Robert Young plays a man who suddenly finds himself locked away in an asylum for the criminally insane.

Mr. Lewis wakes up in a hospital with no memory of events that have happened within the last six months. He thinks it is December, but then realizes it is summer when he looks outside. The last thing that he does remember was returning home to his wife after being away for three years. He was in a hotel room and there was a knock at the door, but he doesn't remember what occurred after that. What happened between then and now? His friendly nurse Amy is willing to break the rules to help him remember.

"The High Wall" was written by Bradbury Foote and produced/directed by William Spier. This was the third of Robert Young's seven appearances on Suspense. English character actor George Zucco, in the last of his five appearances on Suspense, played the Professor. Cathy Lewis played Amy and Wally Maher played Dr. Dunlap. This episode aired on June 6, 1946.

. Download Suspense_1946.06.06_TheHighWall.mp3

(Image from Wikipedia)

Suspense - A Killing in Abilene

"A Killing in Abilene" stars Alan Ladd in a western saga about a man determined to bring his brother's murderer to trial.

Jeff Mander has spent two years in pursuit of the man who murdered his brother. As the episode opens, Jeff rides into the small town of Pleasant Valley. There, he finds the townspeople gathered around a pit where they have just uncovered a body . As it turns out, the man whom they believe has committed this murder, Lee Burrage, is the same man that Jeff is looking for.

Jeff wants to bring the accused man back to trial in Abilene, but the townspeople have their own ideas about justice. Will he be able to convince the townspeople that Lee Burrage deserves a trial?

"A Killing in Abilene" was written by Gil Doud and Antony Ellis. Elliott Lewis produced and directed. Appearing with Alan Ladd were Parley Baer, Jeannette Nolan, and Barton Yarborough. This episode aired on December 14, 1950.

. Download Suspense_1950.12.14_AKillingInAbilene.mp3 

Suspense presented this tale again with Parley Baer in the lead role on February 3, 1955.

. Download Suspense_1955.02.03_AKillingInAbilene.MP3

This story also made it to the Suspense television show in 1951, but that episode, if it survives, is not available at this time.

(Image from Morguefile)

Suspense - Don't Call Me Mother

"Dont' Call Me Mother" is the story of a woman grasping to keep her son in her life--and her daughter-in-law out.

Agnes Moorehead plays Lori, a domineering single mom with a 25 year-old son named Larry. Lori thinks that the life that she and her son share is wonderful, but then Larry ruins it by getting a girlfriend. When he brings Roberta home to meet his mother, the meeting doesn't go well. Lori immediately begins a campaign of emotional blackmail to break them up, but it doesn't work. Larry and Roberta marry over his mother's objections, but when Larry has doubts about his new bride, he makes the mistake of going back to mother for advice.

"Don't Call Me Mother" was written/produced/directed by William N. Robson. Agnes Moorehead starred as Lori. Also featured were James McCallion and Cathy Lewis. This episode aired on January 4, 1959.

. Download suspense_1959.01.04_Don'tCallMeMother.mp3

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Suspense - Song of the Heart

"Song of the Heart" is the story of a stifled man and the suffocating, passive-aggressive aunt who raised him.

Van Heflin plays Neil Wilson, a young guy with an overburdened life. Neil was raised by Aunt Alice and as the episode opens, he is turning himself into the police. Neil tells them he has just killed his aunt.

The trouble started when Neil met Muriel Jones at the company picnic. Neil and Muriel fell in love instantly and wanted to marry, but his aunt refused to accept what was really happening. She didn't like Muriel, and she tried in a not-too-subtle way to communicate those feelings to Neil. Did he understand what his Aunt Alice was trying to tell him?

"Song of the Heart" was written for Suspense by Elliott Lewis and produced/directed by Anton Leader. Van Heflin starred as Neil and Betty Lou Gerson played Muriel. Lurene Tuttle played Aunt Alice.

. Download Suspense_1948.08.26_SongoftheHeart.mp3

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Suspense - Muddy Track

"The Muddy Track" is a radio noir about a bookie who is framed for the murder of a model.

Harry Clark is new in town and down on his luck. He is alone in a bar sipping a Coke when he is descended upon by Brandy. She takes a liking to him, buys him a bourbon, and soon his luck begins to change. Her "friend," Mr. Persian, arrives shortly afterwards and offers Harry a job as a bookie. Mr. Persian buys Harry another round, but this time Harry asks for a brandy. Mr. Persian warns Harry that, "Brandy lovers often die young."

Harry goes to work the next day, but when he finds Brandy murdered, he realizes he was set-up. Now Harry is on the run for a murder he didn't commit, but he can't get out of town without some help.

"The Muddy Track" was written by Buckley Angell and Bob Shelly. Anton M. Leader produced and directed. Academy-award winner Edmond O'Brien, in one of his four appearances on Suspense, starred as Harry. Ann Blyth starred as Eleanor Grayson. This episode aired on November 11, 1948.

.  Download Suspense_1948.11.11_Muddy_Track.mp3

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Suspense - The One Millionth Joe

In "The One Millionth Joe," a publicity stunt turns deadly when things don't go off as planned.

Al is a public relations man in Los Angeles. He came up with a promotional stunt for his client, the Bureau of Better Business Promotion, wherein the one millionth passenger through the airport would win an all-expenses paid whirl through the city.

As everyone gathers at the airport for the one millionth visitor to step through Gate 5, the surprise is on Al when two passengers arrive through the gate at the same moment. Then an argument ensues over who actually deserves the prize, and Al has to come up with an arrangement that will keep both of the prize-winners happy. As he gets to know the two winners, Al finds he has to negotiate a much more complicated deal than he expected.

"The One Millionth Joe" was written for radio by Sylvia Richards, produced by William Spier, and directed by Norman Macdonnell. Jack Carson, in one his five appearances on Suspense, starred as Al. This episode aired on June 22, 1950.

. Download Suspense_1950.06.22_TheOneMillionthJoe.mp3

(Image from Wikimedia Commons)

Suspense - And So to Sleep My Love

"And So to Sleep My Love" is a Suspense episode from 1961, but the story seems reminiscent of their radio-plays from earlier years. In it, a man devises a clever plan to murder his wife for her money.

George is tired of being told what to do by his wife, May. He does what she says, not because he agrees with her, but because she is the one with the money.

George finally arrives at the decision that he would be better off with just the money and not May. So, he devises a way to drive her crazy by making her believe that she is hearing screaming in the night. The plan is for her to become so worn out from lack of sleep that she will turn to sleeping tablets. When she does, he plans to arrange an overdose.

"And So to Sleep My Love" was written for Suspense by Dave W. Gilbert and produced/directed by Bruno Zirato, Jr. William Redfield played George and Elaine Rost played May. Also appearing were Bernard Remlo and Bryna Rayburn. Abby Lewis provided the voice of the screaming woman.

. Download Suspense_1961.12.10_AndSoToSleep.mp3

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Suspense - The Whole Town's Sleeping

"The Whole Town's Sleeping" was closely adapted from the Ray Bradbury short story of the same name, and it will make you think twice about walking home alone at night.

As the episode opens, Lavinia Nebbs is sitting on her porch waiting for her friend, Francine, so that they can go to a movie. When Francine arrives, they start walking towards the movie theater downtown. To get there, they must cross a dark and steep ravine that cuts through the middle of their town.

It would seem that crossing the ravine would be the most dangerous aspect of their trip, but it isn't. Their small Illinois town has been traumatized by a series of murders, each one a month apart, by a strangler called "The Lonely One." Lavinia isn't afraid of "The Lonely One," but Francine is. Lavinia says "Bosh!" to all of it and insists that it will be safe for her to walk home alone after the movie. Will it?

"The Whole Town's Sleeping" was produced, directed, and adapted for radio by Antony Ellis. William Conrad narrated and Jeannette Nolan played Lavinia. Also featured were Eve McVeagh and Paula Winslowe. This episode June 14, 1955.

. Download Suspense_1955.06.14_TheWholeTownsSleeping.mp3

This story was presented again on August 31, 1958. William Conrad narrated and Agnes Moorehead played Lavinia. (The sound quality of this episode isn't the best.)

. Download Suspense_1958.08.31_WholeTown's Sleeping.MP3

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Suspense - Backseat Driver

"Backseat Driver" is a Suspense story that borrows from the urban legend, "The Killer in the Backseat." Radio comedians Fibber McGee & Molly appeared twice in this drama about a suburban couple held hostage by a killer.

According to the Encyclopedia of Urban Legends by Jan Harold Brunvand "The Killer in the Backseat" is a classic automobile horror legend in the United States. It is also a cautionary anecdote that has appeared in many articles on crime prevention. In it, the victim usually is a woman driving alone at night. Unbeknownst to her, a killer has slipped into the back seat of her car and is hiding there. The story ends with either a passing car on the road noticing the man in the backseat and following her, or with a gas station attendant noticing the man and asking the woman to step out of the car. Either way, the point of the story is to always check the backseat of your car before driving.

In Suspense's version, the intended victims are a husband and wife on their way home from a night out in Hollywood. As they are driving, they turn on the radio and hear a story about a murderer from New Hampshire who has been spotted in Los Angeles. Soon they discover that the murderer is in their backseat! The killer threatens that if they don't do as he says, he will kill the wife. As the three of them drive towards the San Fernando Valley, the husband tries to find a way to communicate their need for help to others on the road.

"Backseat Driver" was written for Suspense by Sally Thorson. Radio Hall-of-Famers Jim Jordan (a.k.a Fibber McGee) and Marion Jordan (a.k.a Molly) starred. Anton M. Leader produced/directed. This episode first aired on February 3, 1949 and it is probably the best version of the three.

. Download suspense_1949.02.03_ BackSeatDriver.mp3

Jim and Marion Jordan appeared in this story again on February 22, 1951. Elliott Lewis produced/directed.

. Download Suspense_1951.02.22_BackSeatDriverAFRS.mp3

Suspense presented this story for the last time on July 19, 1955. Parley Baer and Vivi Janiss starred. Antony Ellis produced/directed.

.  Download suspense_1955.07.19_ Backseat Driver.MP3

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Suspense - St. James Infirmary Blues

"St. James Infirmary Blues" is one of a number of Suspense episodes that were based on popular songs. In it, Rosemary Clooney appears as a gal looking for excitement in 1920's New York.

The song has an anonymous origin but it was derived from an 18th century English song called "The Unfortunate Rake." "St. James Infirmary Blues" was first made popular in 1928 by Louis Armstrong and it has since been recorded by many. While most renditions of this song appear to have been performed by men, Suspense wrote their episode around a female character. For more information about the song, there is a website devoted to "St. James Infirmary Blues" at NO Notes.

Rosemary Clooney, in her only appearance on Suspense, both sings the narration and plays the role of Sheila, a girl who falls for a handsome gangster named Nicky. It is a short-lived romance and Sheila ultimately ends up singing the blues when Nicky double-crosses his boss.

"St James Infirmary Blues" was written by Morton Fine and David Friedkin. Elliott Lewis produced and directed. William Conrad played Brock Garvey and Tony Barrett played Nick Volpe. Also appearing were Billy Halop, Vivi Janiss, Joseph Kearns, Shepard Menken, and Clayton Post. This episode aired on February 23, 1953.

. Download suspense_1953.02.23_St James Infirmary Blues.mp3

Below is an excellent version of "St. James Infirmary Blues" performed by Cab Calloway. This surreal clip is taken from Max Fleischer"s Snow White cartoon featuring Betty Boop (1933). Cab Calloway appeared as Koko the Clown.

Video from Youtube.com

Suspense - The Leading Citizen of Pratt County

"The Leading Citizen of Pratt County" stars Alan Hale, Sr. in a story about a con artist who ends up a hero.

As the episode opens, Alonzo P. Witherspoon narrates for us the story of his rise to prominence.

Twenty years earlier he arrived in Prattville with nothing. He had just gambled away all of his money on a horse and his business associate, upon learning this, had kicked him out of their car while driving through Prattville.

Fortunately, two of the locals came to his aid and took in Alonzo. When they told him about their town and the river that used to run through it, he quickly spotted an opportunity. Introducing himself to them as Professor Alonzo P. Witherspoon, Professor of Geology, he announced that he was there on behalf of their senator to survey the river and possibly reroute it.

The unexpected results of his fibbery ultimately lead to his lofty position as their most beloved citizen.

"The Leading Citizen of Pratt County" was written by Robert L. Richards and produced/directed by William Spier. Alan Hale, Sr. starred as Professor Alonzo P. Witherspoon. Also appearing were Joseph Kearns, Verna Felton, Jerry Hausner, and Wally Maher. This episode aired on May 30, 1946.

.  Download Suspense_1946.05.30_LeadingCitizenOfPrattCounty.mp3

(Image of Green River near Mammoth Cave National Park from Wikipedia)

Suspense - Pigeon in the Cage

Suspense's "Pigeon in the Cage" tells the story of a man trapped inside an elevator and the two murderers waiting for him on the outside.

Gerald Brewer is stuck in a small, rickety elevator in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Rogers. He was hanging wallpaper upstairs, but when he tried to leave for the day, the elevator stopped between floors. Brewer wants to get home to his wife, but he is helpless until the owners return.

Soon, one of the owners does return. Brewer can see and hear Mr. Rogers and his girlfriend, Janice, on the floor below, but they don't realize he is there. Mr. Rogers intends to murder Mrs. Rogers when she comes home, and Janice is anxious to get it over with. Brewer tries to hide within the darkness of the suspended elevator, but it isn't long before Mr. Rogers and Janice realize that someone is inside.

"Pigeon in the Cage" was written by Morton Fine and David Friedkin. Elliott Lewis produced and directed. Dick Haymes, in his only appearance on Suspense, played Brewer. Joseph Kearns played Harry Rogers and Charlotte Lawrence turned out a particularly good performance as Janice. This episode aired on May 25, 1953.

.  Download Suspense_1953.05.25_PigeonInTheCage.mp3

This story was presented again on August 11, 1957. Lloyd Bridges, in one of his four appearances on Suspense, played the role of Brewer. Joe DeSantis played Harry Rogers, and Ellen Morgan played Janice. William N. Robson produced and directed.

.  Download Suspense_1957.08.11_PigeonintheCage.mp3

(Images from Stock.xchng and Wikimedia Commons)

Suspense - Return to Dust

"Return to Dust" is the story of a scientist who is accidentally exposed to a chemical mist that makes him smaller and smaller and smaller...

James Howard, a research fellow in Pathology at the state university, has been working after-hours on an experiment in shrinking cancer cells. His supervisor warned him not to work in the lab on his own, but James disobeyed his orders.

Now, James is recording a message to his supervisor describing the circumstances that have left him 12 inches tall. James is still shrinking and needs help before midnight, at which time he will probably be of microscopic size. Will help come in time?

"Return to Dust" was written for Suspense by George Bamber and produced/directed by William N. Robson. Richard Beals gives an utterly convincing performance as the shrinking scientist.  Also appearing were Lawrence Dobkin and Paula Winslowe. This episode aired on February 1, 1959.

.  Download Suspense_1959.02.01_ReturnToDust.mp3

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Suspense - Snow on 66

"Snow on 66" is a story about a drunk driver named Leroy, who enjoys scaring tourists on the road. Suspense did a number of shows about traffic safety and this episode addresses the dangers of red-neck drunks in pick-up trucks. 

What makes this episode more than just a radio-play about road safety is that it features Grayson Hall, an Academy-award nominated actress. To many she is primarily known for her role as Dr. Julia Hoffman on the 1960's gothic soap opera Dark Shadows, but she was also an accomplished stage actress. "Snow on 66" was the first of her two appearances on Suspense.

Charlie and Flo are newlyweds traveling on Route 66. They have stopped for the night at a motel in a remote town in Arizona, but they need to find a place to have dinner. As they are driving to a nearby restaurant, they run into trouble on the road with Leroy. As the night progresses, they find that they can't seem to resolve the trouble no matter what they do.

"Snow on 66" was written by William N. Robson and produced/directed by Fred Hendrickson. Also appearing were Jimmy Blaine, Gwen Davis, James Dimetree, William Mason and Sam Raskyn.  This episode aired on July 15, 1962.

. Download suspense__1962.07.15_SnowOn66.mp3

(Image of Route 66 from Wikimedia Commons. The Burma-Shave signs read: "Big Mistake -- Make Many -- Rely on Horn -- Instead of Brake -- Burma-Shave.")

Suspense - Subway

"Subway" stars June Havoc in a story about woman who is annoyed to the brink of murder by an old friend from school.

Paula Stevens is battling the 5:00 mob in a New York subway station. She has a terrible cold, she is weary, and she hates everyone and everything around her. On the train, Paula finds herself standing next to an old friend from college, Ruth Carney. The two had both attended the same acting academy, but things haven't turned out the way either of them expected. Paula was determined to become a great and serious actress, but her career went nowhere. Ruth, however, made a career for herself in the theater but did it through her family's connections and money. Paula is envious and depressed by the way things have turned out. Suddenly, she remembers the scissors in her purse and she comes up with an idea...

"Subway" was written by Mel Dinelli and Eileen Douglas Walzer. William Spier produced/directed. June Havoc played Paula and Lurene Tuttle played Ruth. This episode aired on October 30, 1947.

.  Download Suspense_1947.10.30_Subway.mp3

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Suspense - The Track of the Cat

In "The Track of the Cat," Richard Widmark plays Curt, a Nevada rancher who is determined to hunt down the mysterious panther that killed his brother.

The snow is falling on the Nevada mountains, and in the early morning winds, there are sounds of trouble on the ranch. Curt and his brothers think that a mountain lion is upsetting their cattle, and they want to go into the canyon to kill it. Their mother asks them not to go because there is a blizzard coming, and because she believes that the first snow of the year brings out the great black panther. Is the black panther a Native American legend or is it real? When Curt finds his brother Arthur dead from an attack by the ghostly animal, he vows to hunt it down.

Suspense's radio-play was adapted by Sylvia Richards from the 1949 novel by Walter Van Tilburg Clark. This story also became a movie in 1954 that starred Robert Mitchum and Teresa Wright. For a review of the DVD version of Track of the Cat visit DVDBeaver.com.

Appearing with Richard Widmark in "Track of the Cat" were Parley Baer, Harry Bartell, Sharon Douglas, Lee Millar, and Martha Wentworth. Elliott Lewis produced and directed. This episode aired on February 18, 1952.

.  Download Suspense_1952.02.18_TheTrackOfTheCat.mp3

(Image by Steve Mestagh from Wikimedia Commons)

Suspense - Night Must Fall

"Night Must Fall" was one of a number of hour-long episodes that Suspense presented in 1948. Their radio play was adapted from the 1935 play by Emlyn Williams and performed by actors from both the original London stage production and the 1937 film Night Must Fall.

The episode opens in a cottage in rural England, the home of Mrs. Bramson. The disappearance of a local woman has recently brought Scotland Yard investigators into the town and into her home. At the same time, she also receives a visitor named Danny. He and Dora, the maid, are involved and Mrs. Bramson expects him to marry Dora. Mrs. Bramson is a difficult old bitty confined to a wheelchair, but she takes a liking to Danny and offers him a job in her home.

Danny accepts the job and moves in, but Mrs. Bramson's niece, Olivia, has her suspicions about him.

"Night Must Fall" was adapted for Suspense by Robert L. Richards and directed by Anton M. Leader. Robert Montgomery produced, hosted and starred as Danny. Ten years earlier, he had been nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor in the film Night Must Fall. Dame May Whitty and Matthew Boulton had both appeared in the original London stage play, but Whitty also appeared in the film version and received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress in a Supporting Role. Also appearing in this broadcast were Heather Angel as Olivia and Richard Ney as Hubert. This episode aired on March 27, 1948.

. Download Suspense_1948.03.27_NightMustFall.mp3

(Image of Robert Montgomery in Night Must Fall from Wikimedia Commons)

Suspense - The Black Shawl

"The Black Shawl" stars Dame May Whitty and Maureen O'Sullivan in a weird story about an Englishwoman who engages a home companion to live with her...and the person hidden in her home.

As the episode opens, Susan Applebie tells us that she is about to be murdered. Only three days earlier, she had been enjoying herself at the town fair, but then she met Elizabeth Masters.

Mrs. Masters approached Susan at the fair with an offer of employment as a home companion. She told Susan that her primary responsibilities would be to brew tea and chit chat, and for that, she would be well paid. Susan agreed because she and her fiance needed the money, but when her fiance heard about her new position with the strange old woman, he wasn't pleased.  Despite his concerns, she started her new job the next night.

Now, Susan is imprisoned in the house of a madwoman who has a peculiar grudge against home companions.

"The Black Shawl" was written by Richard R. Lewis and produced/directed by William Spier. This episode was the first of Dame May Whitty's four appearances on Suspense, but it was Maureen O'Sullivan's only appearance. This episode aired on July 27, 1944. 

. Download Suspense_1944.07.27_TheBlackShawl.mp3   

(Image from Wikimedia Commons)

Suspense - Inferno

With "Inferno," Suspense reminds us to be careful when driving through a long stretch of desert.

Lester and his wife Sheila are driving across the country to his new job in California. As the episode opens, they drive right past a sign advising them to have their vehicle checked before traveling any farther into the desert. The highway in front of them is a lonely one, with no service stations for the next 50 miles, but Lester isn't worried. He tells Sheila that they have enough gas to go twice that distance...but do they have water?

A little farther into their trip, they take a five mile detour down an old road to find a place to eat their picnic lunch. Lester and Sheila assume they are alone in their isolated picnic spot, but two old miners working nearby are watching them...and their car.

"Inferno" was written by Peter Fernandez and was produced/directed by Paul Roberts. Ellen McRae played Sheila and Richard Holland played Lester. Mandel Kramer and Robert Dryden played the miners. (The sound quality of this episode isn't perfect but it was the best recording that could be found.) This episode aired on October 16, 1960.

.  Download Suspense_1960.10.16_Inferno.mp3   

(Image from Morguefile)

Suspense - Murder is a Matter of Opinion

In "Murder is a Matter of Opinion," two law students stage a mock crime in order to prove that an innocent man can be convicted of premeditated murder.

Frank and his younger brother Brian are students at the Tulane College of Law. The two of them disagree on most subjects, but lately they have been arguing about capital punishment. Frank believes the laws are right, and Brian believes that the laws are wrong.

Every year the law school stages a crime and then holds a mock trial to argue the case. This year, Frank and Brian decide to go one better and surprise the school by staging their own crime. Frank will "murder" Brian, and then Brian will argue the case in front of the Mock Trial Board. Or will he?

"Murder is a Matter of Opinion" was based on a short story by Jules Archer and was adapted for radio by Ronald Dawson. Phil Meader and William Lipton starred. This episode aired on August 20, 1961.

.  Download Suspense_1961.08.20_MurderIsAMatterofOpinion.mp3

For other stories by Jules Archer see:

Escape - Two Came Back

Suspense - Sold to Satan

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Suspense - A Coffin for Mr. Cash

In "A Coffin for Mr. Cash," the supervisor of a crematorium becomes involved in an intricate plan to steal a fortune.

Pete Wilson is the night supervisor of the Lakeside Municipal Crematorium. On one particularly dark and stormy night, Pete receives a visit from Al Thomas. Not too long ago Pete and Al used to share a cell, but now they share a drink while Al explains his visit. He wants Pete to go in with him on a heist, and all Pete has to do is drive a horse.

Pete agrees to the arrangement, primarily because he can't think of a way to get out of it. Al's target is the Dollar Delivery Company, through which payroll funds are delivered by armored cars onThursdays. Al's plan is to steal the money from the delivery company, but not directly. Pete and Al will be robbing the gang that is planning to rob the Dollar Delivery Company next Thursday.

"A Coffin for Mr. Cash" was written for Suspense by Robert A. Arthur and was produced/directed by Paul Roberts. Leon Janney played Pete Wilson and Mandel Kramer played Al Thomas. Also appearing were: Sam Raskyn, Sam Gray, Robert Donley and Joseph Boland. This episode aired on March 27, 1960.

.  Download Suspense_1960.03.27_ACoffinforMrCash.mp3

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Suspense - The Lonely Road

In "The Lonely Road," Gregory Peck plays a man who becomes dangerously smitten with his house-maid.

Steven Gare and his wife, Ellen, life in an isolated house in the country. They are in need of help around their home and so, they post an advertisement. A girl named Jenny responds, and Ellen hires her. Initially, everything seems to go well, but soon Ellen becomes uncomfortable with Jenny. Ellen sees something dangerous in her, and she isn't wrong. Jenny wants get rid of the Ellen, so she and Steven can run off together.

"The Lonely Road" was written by Mary North and produced/directed by William Spier. Gregory Peck, in the first of his five appearances on Suspense, played Steven Gare. Cathy Lewis played Ellen Gare, and Maria Palmer played Jenny. Peck and Palmer had previously worked together in the 1944 film Days of Glory. This episode aired on March 21, 1946.

. Download Suspense_1946.03.21_Lonely_Road.mp3

(Image from Wikimedia Commons)

Suspense - The Diary of Saphronia Winters

In Suspense's "The Diary of Saphronia Winters," we learn that it is best not to jump into marriage too quickly.

Saphronia Winters, at age 40, is starting her life over again. After the death of her invalid father, whom she took care of for many years, Safronia has gone to stay in Florida. While enjoying her new freedom, she meets Hiram Johnson. He is a handsome hotel owner from Maine, with whom she has a whirlwind courtship. The only thing that seems odd is that he mentions his sister-in-law often. Safronia assumes that it is only because the two of them share the same name.

In a short time, Hiram convinces Safronia to marry him and return with him to his home. When they arrive at his hotel in Maine, Safronia is stunned to find a large, empty hotel that hasn't been open in twenty-five years. Soon, Safronia discovers why he has brought her there and why he mentions his sister-in-law so often.

"The Diary of Safronia Winters" was written by Lucille Fletcher and displays her distinctive style of radio horror. Suspense presented this story twice with Agnes Moorehead and Ray Collins in the lead roles.

This story first aired on April 27, 1943.

.  Download Suspense_1943.04.27_DiaryOfSaphroniaWinters.mp3

Suspense presented this story again on August 17, 1944.

. Download Suspense_1944.08.17_DiaryofSaphroniaWinters.mp3

The story aired for the last time on August 10, 1958, with Mercedes McCambridge and Karl Swenson. Mercedes McCambridge was a well-known radio actress, who also found success in films. She was an Academy Award winner for Best Supporting Actress in 1950, but she is also remembered in movie history for her voice-work as a demon in the 1973 film The Exorcist.

. Download Suspense_1958.08.10_DiaryofSaphroniaWinters.mp3   

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Suspense - Hide and Seek

Suspense's "Hide and Seek" is the story of a Chicago gambler trapped in a deadly game of cat and mouse.

Dandy D'Angelis is a gambler known around town for his dapper appearance, and he owes money to Ed Bigelow. Dandy put borrowed money on a horse that came in fifth, but he doesn't have the funds to cover his bet.

Bigelow isn't happy that the debt isn't being repaid, and he tells "the boys" to take the "bloom off the dandy man." So, Ed's associates decide to take Dandy for a nice drive in the country -- one from which he won't be returning. When they pass through Dandy's old neighborhood on their way out of town, he jumps out of the car and runs away. Now he has to hide in an alley from Ed's men, but his past comes back to haunt him.

"Hide and Seek" was written for Suspense by Bob Corcoran. Jackson Beck and William Redfield starred. (The voice of Jackson Beck, the narrator of this episode, is one that is familiar to many. Although it may not be immediately obvious, he was the voice of Bluto in over 300 Popeye cartoons.) This episode aired on May 13, 1962.

.  Download Suspense_1962.05.13_HideAndSeek.mp3

(Image from Morguefile)

Suspense - Give Me Liberty

"Give Me Liberty" sounds patriotic, but this Suspense episode is a harsh tale about an escaped criminal unable to free himself of his handcuffs.

Mr. Earl French embezzeled $250,000, was caught, and then sentenced to seven years in prison. None of this bothers him because it was all according to his plan. He never disclosed to the authorities where the stolen money was, and after he completes his prison term, he plans to spend it.

On route to the penitentiary, Mr. French is smug while chatting with the police officer accompanying him. His plan, however, takes a sudden new direction when the train crashes. In the aftermath, he murders the police officer, switches their wallets, and escapes.

Now, the only obstacles to his freedom are the handcuffs that he can't remove. Mr. French can't get the tools he needs to break them, and no one will help him. His smugness turns to desperation as his circumstances become worse, and he meets up with a cruel female hobo.

"Give Me Liberty"  was written by Herb Meadow and starred William Powell. Ann Morrison played the hobo.  This episode aired for the first time on October 21, 1948.

.  Download Suspense_1948.10.21_GiveMeLiberty.mp3

Suspense presented this story again on March 29, 1955 with good results. Television actor/writer Tony Barrett played Mr. French. Also appearing were Michael Ann Barrett, Dick Beals, Helen Kleeb, and Lou Merrill.

.  Download Suspense_1955.03.29.GiveMeLiberty.mp3

(Image from Wikimedia Commons)

Suspense - The Lovebirds

Suspense's "The Lovebirds" stars Joan Fontaine in a story about a resentful woman trapped in an unhappy marriage to a needy man.

As the episode opens, Martha explains how she has played nursemaid to her husband, Sam, for seven years. Throughout that time she has been waiting for him to die from one of his many ailments, but Sam has proven to be spunkier than his doctor predicted. Martha is tired of taking care of a husband she hates, but no one suspects her real feelings. Sam and Martha appear to be so devoted to each other that people call them "the lovebirds."

One night, Martha decides to take matters into her own hands by giving Sam an overdose of sleeping pills. When Sam survives the overdose, she tries again. What Martha doesn't know is that Sam has caught on to what she is up to, and he has his own plans for her.

"The Lovebirds" was written by Cheryl Hendricks and adapted for Suspense by Harold Swanton.  This was Joan Fontaine's only appearance on Suspense. At the time, she was promoting the film, You Gotta Stay Happy (1948). Also appearing were Jerry Hausner, William Johnstone, and Lestor Schott. This episode aired on March 3, 1949.

.  Download Suspense_1949.03.03_Lovebirds.mp3

(Image of Joan Fontaine from Wikipedia)

Suspense - A Rest for Emily

"A Rest for Emily" is a peculiar Suspense tale about a farmer who goes mad from having to listen to his wife complain.

Orrin Reed and his wife, Emily, have lived on their farm for thirty years, but they have not prospered. Their life has been hard, and Emily has become an unhappy shrew. One night, Emily's "bitter words" are too much for Orrin. When she tells him to go get the coffee, he comes back from the kitchen with a rifle instead.

Orrin decides to return Emily to the land by burying her in the barn. Later that night, he receives a strange phone call telling him, "You'll never get away with it."

"A Rest for Emily" was written by Berel Firestone. Bill Smith and Abby Lewis played Orrin and Emily. Also appearing were Ralph Bell, Lee Graham, and Larry Robinson. This episode aired on September 4, 1960. (The sound quality of this recording is not the best.)

. Download Suspense_1960.09.04_ARestforEmily.mp3   

(Image from Morguefile.com)