Escape and Suspense!

Opening Night at Noir City X

Here at Escape and Suspense!, once a year we take a break from our normal schedule for the Noir City Film Festival, which runs for ten days at the end of January. We originally began attending the festival because some of these rarely-screened film noirs have well known old time radio stars in bit parts or co-starring roles, but also because radio noir is an important part of the Suspense catalog of work.
So, on a cold and rainy Friday night my copyeditor (a.k.a - Mom) and I  arrived at the Castro Theatre in plenty of time, but it was already so crowded that we had to hike up to the balcony for seats. There was a lovely reception on the mezzanine for festival pass holders, which gave me an opportunity to try a shot of Fireball Cinnamon Whisky (hot!) and to have look at all of the people who came in 1940's clothing. I wasn't together enough to get a picture of all that--but below is a nice picture of the stage from our spot in the balcony and the organist who entertains the crowd before the show.

The festival began with Dark Passage (1947), which isn't a rarity, but it was a lot fun to see on the big screen. The film broke down a couple of times but that just added to the authenticity of the experience.

Of course, Bogart and Bacall are billed as the stars of Dark Passage, but old time radio fans know that the real star of that movie is "First Lady of Suspense" Agnes Moorehead.

Now, what I didn't like about the show was the people in the audience who hissed at the villains. Not to give away but the plot, but Agnes Moorehead was hissed at...and Agnes Moorehead must never be hissed at. Never ever ever.

So, the next film of the night was The House on Telegraph Hill (1951) and before it started, noir expert and festival promoter, Eddie Muller filmed a short video message to the film's star Valentina Cortesa from the crowd of 1400 people in the theatre. (I don't remember the whole thing, but it was something like "Ciao Valentina, San Francisco loves you..." or something like that.)

Anyhow, The House of Telegraph Hill is not a rarity either, but a lot of fun to see in the theatre. I've only ever seen it on DVD, and that really doesn't do justice to the film.

For the Saturday matinee, there were two exceptionally good pre-code 1930's films. The first, Okay, America (1932) was based on the life and radio show of Walter Winchell.  The second matinee film was Afraid to Talk (1932), which also goes by the name Merry-Go-Round. There wasn't a dull moment in eithor of these films, that's all I can say. You can't go wrong with either one, but old time radio fans, will be more interested in Okay, America.

(Another film that was based on a radio show, that I wrote about back during Noir City 7, is Night Editor (1946), which was based on the radio series of the same name that ran from 1934 to 1948. If I didn't already mention this, it was released on dvd last year and can be found in the Bad Girls of Film Noir Collection. Night Editor is wonderfully trashy and still one of my favorites.)

Below is the trailer for Dark Passage.

Suspense - The Crowded Void

In "The Crowded Void," Bartlett Robinson stars as a commercial pilot who must make a decision between landing safely and risking the lives of his passengers to get there faster.

As the episode opens, a Pacific Central Airways flight is about to leave from San Francisco for Los Angeles. The pilot, Captain Sam Bradley, watches the passengers board the plane. 

He is worried. The airport in L.A. is fogged in, but what is really bothering him is that he has just received a telegram informing him that his wife has gone into labor.

The captain decides that despite the risks, the flight will go ahead as scheduled. As he boards the plane, the stewardess, Sally, advises him about Mrs. Gordon, the nervous passenger in seat 11.

The flight gets underway, but conditions in Los Angeles keep deteriorating. The captain wants to land as soon as he can, but the harder he tries to get there, the more impossible it seems. On top of it all, nervous Mrs. Gordon is upsetting the whole plane! Out of frustration, he decides to make a risky maneuver that jeoparidizes the lives of his passengers. Will he come to his senses in time?

"The Crowded Void" was written by Michael Frost, and produced/directed by William N. Robson. Bartlett Robinson starred. Also appearing were Ellen Morgan, Shirley Mitchell, Dee Tatum, John Dehner, Barney Phillips, and Sam Pierce. This episode aired on January 19, 1958.

. Download Suspense_1958-01-19_The_Crowded_Void_

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Noir City X

The tenth annual San Francisco Film Noir Festival begins tonight at the Castro Theatre and runs through January 29th!

The festival kicks off with Dark Passage and The House on Telegraph Hill, and you really can't ask for much more on a cold and rainy January night. 

To check out this year's line-up of films visit NoirCity.com.

Suspense - The Black Curtain

Suspense's "The Black Curtain" was based on the classic 1941 novel of the same name by Cornell Woolrich. Their version does not represent the book exactly as written, but whether or not the changes  are acceptable...is up to the listener. Suspense presented this story three times, twice as a half hour program and once as an hour-long episode.

In the biography, Cornell Woolrich: First You Dream, then You Die, author Francis M Nevins, Jr. gives Suspense's adaptation high praise for capturing the essence of Woolrich's particular brand of bleakness and for improving upon the final scenes. As he states on page 494:

"Cary Grant gave a magnificent performance as Townsend and Lurene Tuttle was superb as Ruth in this play which was at once so different from its source novel and to true to its dark spirit that I'm almost convinced it was adapted by Woolrich himself..."

Suspense's version more closely remembles novel's 1942 film adaptation, Street of Chance, which starred Burgess Meredith and Claire Trevor. 

As the episode opens, Frank Townsend awakens from an accident to discover that he is unable to remember the last three years of his life. His only clue is his hat, which is mongrammed with the initials "D.N." Soon, however, Frank realizes that he is being followed by someone who does know. Someone with a gun... 

"The Black Curtain" was presented the first time on December 2, 1943. William Spier produced and directed. Cary Grant starred as Frank Townsend. Lurene Tuttle played Ruth. Also appearing were Bea Benaderet, Hans Conried, William Johnstone, Harry Lang, and Walter Tetley. 

. Download Suspense_1943-12-02_The_Black_Curtain_

The second presentation was on November 30, 1944. Cary Grant and Lurene Tuttle again played the roles of Frank and Ruth.

. Download Suspense_1944-11-30_The Black Curtain_

Suspense presented this story a third time in an hour long episode on January 3, 1948. William Spier again produced and directed. This time, Robert Montgomery played the role of Frank Townsend. Lurene Tuttle again played Ruth. Also appearing were Cathy Lewis, Jeannette Nolan, Sidney Miller, Conrad Binyon, Jack Kruschen, William Conrad, Jerry Hausner, Paul Frees, Ira Grosell (a.k.a Jeff Chandler (in the role of Franklin)) Junius Matthews, Harry Lang, and Joseph Kearns .

. Download Suspense_1948-01-03_Black Curtain_

Street of Chance is not currently available on DVD, but hopefully, it will be restored someday soon and released again. 

Watch Street of Chance (1942) in Entertainment | View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

Suspense - Two Platinum Capsules

In "Two Platinum Capsules," a small amount of radioactive material disappears from a hospital and causes panic in a small town. According to the introduction, this radio play is based on a true story.

As the episode opens, George Murphy, part-time uranium prospector, has just come home from a trip into the desert with his geiger counter. Johnny, his son, is excited to see him, but George is worn out from his trip, so Johnny then goes out to play with his friend, Pete. After discussing possible places to go, Johhny and Pete settle on going down to have a look at the new dump.

Meanwhile, on the other side of town, Nurse Webster, is discussing her new duties at the hospital with the administrator. Part of her job involves working with the contents of room 222, the dangerous area where the radioactive materials are stored.

Later that morning, two radium capsules are reported missing from room 222!  Hoping to find them as quickly as possible, the hospital asks George Murphy to use his geiger counter to locate their lost radioactive material .

But, as it turns out, the missing radium has already been found...

"Two Platinum Capsules" was producted and directed by Antony Ellis. Edgar Barrier, Dick Beals, and Stacy Harris starred. Also appearing were This episode aired on January 10, 1956.

. Download Suspense_1956-01-10_Two_Platinum_Capsules_

 (Image of Edgar Barrier)

Suspense - Firing Run

In "Firing Run," two children sneak on board a drone plane that is scheduled for destruction as a missile target.

The episode opens on an Air Force base in the desert. Captain Mark Stacey, a decorated and talented fighter pilot, is scheduled to test a missile that morning...

At the breakfast table, his two small sons, Hap and Petey, ask if they can watch the missile test, but he tells them no. Hap's mother then reminds him about the school bus that will arrive in twenty minutes. 

Then, Hap's friend Cathy, the colonel's daughter, shows up and they go outside to play. Ignoring everything his parents just said, Hap convinces Cathy to head over to see the drone plane. Petey tags along, but they soon tell him to go back home because he is a little boy and a big fibber.

Captain Stacey then leaves for work, and his wife starts the dishes.

Meanwhile... Cathy and Hap are already poking around the drone, and soon they realize that it is about to take off!

That leaves Petey, the known fibber, to alert the adults that Hap and Cathy are in danger....

"Firing Run" was written for Suspense by Michael Frost, and was produced/directed by William N. Robson. Ruth Hussey starred. Also appearing were Dawn Bender, Dick Beals, Eddie Firestone, Sam Pierce, and Ken Christy. This episode aired on November 3, 1957.

. Download Suspense_1957-11-03_Firing_Run_

Suspense - Murder Through the Looking Glass

In "Murder Through the Looking Glass," Gregory Peck stars as a man who does not remember the murder he is accused of having committed.

This episode was based on the 1943 novel Murder Through the Looking Glass by accomplished mystery writer Craig Rice, whose real name was Georgiana Ann Randolph Craig.  Known for her surrealistic approach to story-telling, her works were published under a number of pseudonyms. For Murder Through the Looking Glass, the pseudonym Michael Venning was used.

Normally, here at Escape and Suspense!, we always read the original work before posting a radio adaptation, unless that item is particularly hard to get. Such is the case with this novel. Surviving copies of Murder Through the Looking Glass are very expensive, and they are not readily available through interlibrary loan.

The other issue with this episode is that the novel was adapted for radio by pulp fiction writer Ken Crossen. If his adaptation of this book is anything like his adaptation of Graham Greene's Confidential Agent, for Escape, then he may have completely changed the story to suit his style. Without a copy of the original work to go by, we really don't know.

So, for now, we just have to take Suspense's presentation as it is...

"Murder through the Looking Glass" was produced and directed by Anton M. Leader. Gregory Peck starred. The name of the actress playing Rosalie isn't given. Joseph Kearns played the doctor. This episode aired on on March 17, 1949.

. Download Suspense_1949-03-17_Murder Through The Looking Glass_

(Image of the author Craig Rice)

Suspense - Red Cloud Mesa

Suspense's "Red Cloud Mesa" was adapted from the short story, "Where the Warriors Crossed" by William Eastlake, which appeared in the August 3, 1956 issue of Collier's Magazine.  As William N. Robson explains in his introduction, he changed the title, and made a few changes to the story for radio, but it is "substantially" the same. If you read the story, that appears to be true except that the characters are able to express themselves more clearly because they are given more dialogue.

The episode opens on the Red Cloud Trading post on a New Mexico Navajo reservation. An Indian named Four Thumbs enters, and he is greeted by the owner, Mr. Bowman, who already knows that Four Thumbs has killed a man while escaping from a psychiatric hospital for veterans. Four Thumbs calls Mr. Bowman, "Captain", because he served under him in France during World War II.

Mr. Bowman promises to help Four Thumbs, who doesn't want to die inside a padded cell. But, he also has to promise the state trooper, who comes around to investigate, that he won't make him look bad either.

When those promises become impossible to keep. Mr. Bowman then leads Four Thumbs up onto the high mesa  and gives him the choice of how to resolve the situation...

"Red Cloud Mesa" was adapted for radio, produced, and directed by William N. Robson. Reed Hadley starred. None of the other actors are named, but they appear to be the same actors used in the second presentation of this story in 1959. Navajo chants are used in the story but the performers are not identified. Whether those chants were performed live or taken from a recording is unknown, no information about them is given. This episode aired on October 30, 1956.

. Download Suspense_1956-10-30_Red Cloud Mesa_

Suspense presented this story a second time on August 2, 1959. Joseph Cotten starred. Also appearing were Jay Novello, Vic Perrin, Lawrence Dobkin, and Howard McNear.

. Download Suspense_1959-08-02_Red_Cloud_Mesa_

Suspense - Epitaph

In "Epitaph" a grieving, angry spinster rejects and then falls in love with her dead sister's husband.

As the episode opens, Lucinda visits the grave of Phoebe, her recently deceased sister. She believes that Phoebe's husband, Martin, was the cause of her death. She knows it was only her money that he was after and promises her dead sister that Martin won't get away with it.

Later, when Phoebe's will is read aloud, Lucinda learns that her sister has left her half of their family estate to Martin. Lucinda is furious, but there is nothing she can do to change the situation.

Martin refuses to leave the home that Phoebe has left for him. He tries his best to get Lucinda to cooperate, but she won't have anything to do with him.

As time passes, however, Martin manages to get on Lucinda's good side. So much so, that they end up becoming engaged-- and the truth unfolds.

"Epitaph" was written by Walter Black and produced by Bruno Zirato, Jr. Paul McGrath, the familiar host of Inner Sanctum, starred as Martin and Barbara Becker played Lucinda. Also appearing were Frank Barrens, Mary Michael, and Joan Lorring. This episode aired on July 9, 1961.

. Download Suspense_1961-07-09_Epitath

Photo of Paul McGrath

Lux Radio Theater - Meet Me in St. Louis

Here at Escape and Suspense!, watching Meet Me in St. Louis is a part of the annual Christmas ritual. Though it seems to just get weirder and weirder every time I see it...

For those of you who are fans of Meet Me in St. Louis, you may enjoy Lux Radio Theater's adaptation, which stars a trio of actors from the film: Judy Garland, Margaret O'Brien, and Tom Drake.

First, you have to accept that the character of Agnes is not in the radio adaption. That is hard to imagine at first, but they snipped her out by just giving all of her good lines, and her cat, to Tootie. Second, you can't see the house they live in, which we all know is one of the true stars of the film. Third, there are no costumes at which to marvel.

So, with that in mind, there is a lot to enjoy in the radio version, which was performed when Meet Me in St. Louis was still in theaters. The music is great, some lines are just funnier on radio, and the actors seem to be having a good time.

"Meet Me in St. Louis" aired on December 2, 1946. William Keighly produced. Judy Garland, Margaret O'Brien, and Tom Drake starred. Also appearing were: Gale Gordon, Helene Gray, Regina Wallace, Norman Field, Billy Roy, Norren Gamille, Dick Ryan, Clark Gordon, Charles Seal, Truda Marsden, Johnny McGovern, Joel Davis, Jerry Farber, Howard Jeffrey, and Lois Kennison.

. Download Lux Radio-1946-12-02_Meet_Me_In_St_Louis

Suspense - The Search for Henri Lefevre

In "The Search for Henri Lefevre," a composer tries to understand how his work could be stolen ...before it is finished.

As the episode opens, Adolphus Flynn has just completed a musical composition that he feels is one of his finest works. He lies down to relax, turns on the radio, and hears...the same composition! At the end, the announcer credits a composer named Henri Lefevre.

How could it be? Adolphus is baffled, but he is determined to find out how his music could be stolen.

The wife of Henri Lefevre is asked to visit in the hope that she can clarify the situation. Mrs. Lefevre explains to Adolphus that she and her husband are estranged, but she is knowledgeable about his work. Adolphus then asks her how it could be that he and Henri Lefevre could  both have written the same piece, and she then begins the sad story behind her husband's composition...

 "The Search for Henri Lefevre" was written by Lucille Fletcher, wife of film (and Suspense) composer Bernard Herrmann. (He did not do the music for this episode) William Spier produced and directed.  Paul Muni starred. Also appearing were Hans Conried and Lurene Tuttle. This episode aired on July 6, 1944.

. Download Suspense_1944-07-06_SearchForHenriLeFevre_

Suspense - Dagger of the Mind

In "Dagger of the MInd," a wife is so convinced that her husband is in love with another woman that she stops listening to reason.

As the episode opens, Vicky recounts to her doctor an upsetting dream in which she is confused by numerous different signs on a dark road. When she touches one of the signs, a deceptive two-faced creature comes alive and calls her name...

The doctor tells her to get a hobby.  Her problem is merely that she is too idle and her imagination is working overtime!

Vicky knows better. Why should she listen to the doctor when she knows that the two-faced thing in her dream is symbolic of her husband, Walter. She has known for a long time what he is really up to....and with whom.

Walter tells her that their marriage is fine...but Vicky knows better! She also knows what she must do about the other woman...

"Dagger of the Mind" was written by John Robert and produced/directed by Bruno Zirato, Jr. Claire Niesen and Leon Janney starred. Also appearing were Ralph Camargo, Evelyn Juster, and Guy Repp. This episode aired on May 20, 1962.

. Download Suspense_1962-05-20_Dagger of the Mind_

(Image of Claire Niesen)

Suspense - Witness to Murder

In "Witness to Murder," a woman believes her husband is convincing everyone around her that she is losing her mind.

As the episode opens, a ship is about to sail from France, and Mrs. Louise Meredith is unhappy that she has no other way to return to America. Three months earlier, she traveled alone to France on the same ship and had a nervous breakdown midway through the voyage. Having to come back and face the same people is humiliating for her.

Now, however, Louise is traveling with her husband, Larry.  Everything seems fine, but shortly after their voyage begins, Larry starts asking her to control her odd behaviours.

Jane knows there isn't anything wrong with her, but can she convince anyone on board that Larry is the real trouble?

"Witness to Murder" was written by Frances Rickett and produced/directed by Bruno Zirato, Jr.. Joan Lorring and Leon Janney starred. Also appearing were Ronald Dawson, Bob Dryden, Mercer McCloud, and Guy Repp. This episode aired on October 22, 1961.

. Download Suspense_1961-10-22_Witness to Murder_

(Image of Joan Lorring.)

Suspense - Just One Happy Little Family

In "Just One Happy Little Family," Ray Noble stars as a widower who believes his new wife is a gentle, kindly widow...until he discovers how many husbands she had before him.

As the episode opens, Mr. Dunkel carries his new bride, Victoria, over the doorstep of their home. The house belongs to her, but they plan to live there comfortably with his money. It appears to be a perfect arrangement, but as the two newlyweds get to know each other, they find they have more in common than they thought...and that neither of them has any money.

So, Mr. and Mrs. Dunkel advertise for a boarder to come and live with them, and they soon find a young woman...with whom they have more in common than they thought. 

"Just One Happy Little Family" was written by John Thornton and produced/directed by William N. Robson. Ray Noble starred. Also appearing were Lee Patrick, Shirley Mitchell, and David Sheiner. This episode aired on April 6, 1958.

. Download Suspense_1958-04-06_Just One Happy Little Family

(Image of Lee Patrick from Wikipedia)

Suspense - Hold Up

In "Hold Up," Joseph Kearns stars as a shopkeeper who is determined to gun down anyone who tries to rob his grocery store.

As the episode opens, Jim Chase tells his wife, Hazel , to open the safety latch on the gun that is hidden in their cash register. He then tells Hazel to get out of the way...

A young man enters their store, seemingly to buy cigarrettes, but then, suddenly, he orders them to hand over their money! He tells them he has a gun in his pocket, and he isn't afraid to shoot.

Jim complies with the young man's request, but then turns and shoots him three times through the head. Then, he shoots a couple more times to make sure that he is completely dead.

When the police come to investigate, they question Jim about what happened. Then, he is questioned about the other two times that he has killed men during hold up attempts.

Jim doesn't make any apologies, the war took away his emotions about guns and death. The captain cautions him not to be a hero, but Jim complains that he doesn't have time to wait around for help from the police.

Later, the police warn Jim and Hazel that the dead man has a dangerous brother, who may pay them a visit...

"Hold Up" was written by Jules Maitland and produced and directed by Antony Ellis. Joseph Kearns starred. Also appearing were Alice Backus, Leonard Winerib, Shepard Menken, Larry Thor, Byron Kane, Frank Gerstle, and Sam Edwards. This episode aired on August 29, 1956.

. Download Suspense_1956-08-29_Hold Up_

(Image of Joseph Kearns from Wikipedia)

Suspense - The Stool Pigeon

In "The Stool Pigeon," Devil's Island convicts protest prison conditions by taking their warden hostage.

As the episode opens, a group of libres, prisoners with certain freedoms, are racing cockroaches and discussing the attempted escape of a fellow inmate. Is is possible to survive the many dangers that surround them-- an impenetrable jungle, hostile natives, nearby countries that offer no aid, and miles of ocean between them...and anywhere else?

Aside from those deterrents, the libres suspect a stool pigeon who alerts the officials when there is an escape. How else could the officials know so much?

Soon afterward, the escaped man is caught and punished.  Then, the conditions on the island become worse. In response, the prisoners decide they have had enough. They decide to stand against tyranny and inhumanity...by holding the warden hostage.

Will their plan work? Or, is it a way to discover the identity of the stool pigeon who betrays them?

"The Stool Pigeon" was written, produced and directed by Antony Ellis. John Dehner starred. Also appearing Parley Baer, Tony Barrett, Edgar Barrier, Jim Nusser, and Joseph Kearns. This episode aired on September 20, 1955.

. Download Suspense_1955-09-20_The_Stool_Pigeon_

(Image of Devil's Island, French Guiana from Wikipedia)

Suspense - Bon Voyage

In "Bon Voyage," a man becomes obsessed with a small detail to that could spoil his plan to embezzle a fortune and run off to Europe. 

As the episode opens, it is Friday evening, and Mr. Alex Thompson is waiting for Hank, the security guard, to go on duty. In the meantime, he fills a box with two hundred thousand dollars and follows through on the details of his carefully laid-out plan.

Once he gets past Hank, who isn't a real stickler for the rules, Mr. Thompson heads for the docks and boards the Concordia. There he "casually meets" Celia on deck....but Celia doesn't like pretending. Their plan to run off to France together is almost complete. So, why do they have to put on an act? 

Alex cautions her that it is only because he has taken such incredbily great care with every  minute detail that their dream of running away together is coming true.

Then...Alex remembers a detail that was not handled properly. A small mistake that could lead the police in their direction.

So, Alex decides to go take care of that detail before the ship sails...but is it wise to take a chance?

"Bon Voyage" was written by Murray Burnett and produced/directed by Paul Roberts. Robert Readick starred. Also appearing were Rita Lloyd , Mary Moore, Joseph Julian, Dan Ocko, and Allan Manson. This episode aired on July 3, 1960.

. Download Suspense_1960-07-03_Bon_Voyage_

 

Suspense - Out the Window

In "Out the Window," a corrupt police commissioner must decide if he is to continue in his ways or fall to his death.

The episode opens in an office on the twenty-first floor of a downtown building. Commissioner Walcheck stands in front of an open window. He is being faced down by two men. He tells them that he won't give them what they want. He is tired of the graft and corruption!

They warn Commissioner Walcheck to go along with what the party wants--or he will go out the window. On top of that, they will ruin his reputation after his death.

Commissioner Walcheck is undaunted and stands firm in his defiance.

Will the two men follow through on their threat? If so, it is a long way down.

"Out the Window" was written by William N. Robson and produced directed by Paul Roberts. Santos Ortega, Jane Hossack, and Ginger Jones were featured. Also appearing were Roger DeKoven, George Matthews, Sam Raskyn, and Marilyn Cole. This episode aired on May 22, 1960.

. Download Suspense_1960-05-22_OutTheWindow_

(Image from Stock.xchng)

Suspense - Brother John

In "Brother John," a man awakens from a coma and begins a new life...or so he thinks.

When John McGee came to the hospital to visit his younger brother, Charlie, the doctor explained that he was awake but unable to communicate. He also told John that his brother could spontaneously recover at any moment. It was the doctor's hope that a visit from his older brother would help Charlie's recovery.

After the doctor left the room, John told Charlie that if he did recover, he should come live with him. John bragged about his cushy set-up, the people he worked for, and the money he had set aside for Charlie. Why, once he got well, he was set for life!

Not long afterward, Charlie did get well, and his brother John was the first person he wanted to talk to...

"Brother John" was written by Elspeth Eric, and produced/directed by Bruno Zirato, Jr. William Redfield starred. Also appearing were Connie Lempke, Paul McGrath, Sam Gray, Bill Smith, and Guy Repp. This episode aired on April 15, 1962.

. Download Suspense_1962-04-15_Brother_John_

Suspense - The Hands of Mr. Ottermole

In "The Hands of Mr. Ottermole," Claude Rains and Vincent Price star in an episode based on the story  by Thomas Burke, first published in his 1931 book, The Pleasantries Old Quong. Burke died in 1945, but in 1949, critics voted "The Hands of Mr. Ottermole" the best mystery of all time. Suspense's adaptation is a faithful one, but they added a dollop of drama for Claude Rains by extending the ending.

As the episode opens, a newspaperman interviews a sergeant from the London metropolitan police force about the strangler who has committed five murders but is still on the loose.

The sergeant tells him how the strangler suddenly went to work in the district. What was the gain? Only the strangler knew. No one  could understand the purpose of his crimes. He appeared to step out of the dark and strike at random.

Which leaves them to wonder if the strangler will be caught or will he just disappear into the shadows....

"The Hands of Mr. Ottermole" was adapted for radio by Ken Crossen and produced/directed by Anton M. Leader. Claude Rains and Vincent Price starred. Also appearing were Verna Felton and Raymond E. Lawrence. This episode aired on December 2, 1948.

. Download Suspense_1948-12-02_Hands of Mr Ottermole_

(Image of Claude Rains from Wikipedia)

Lights Out - Murder Castle

In the Lights Out episode "Murder Castle," Joseph Kearns stars as a prosperous gentleman, who makes a practice of placing employment ads for young woman.

This episode is based on the true story of serial killer H. H. Holmes and his "murder castle" located in Chicago in the 1890's. How many people he killed in his bizarre home is unknown. You can read more about Holmes and his pattern of swindling and murdering women for money in the December 1943 issue of Harper's Magazine.  It is also reported that Holmes' spirit, and those of his victims, still haunt the location of the castle, though the building is gone.

______________________________________________

As the episode opens, the police have picked up a young woman muttering one word over and over again...revenge, revenge, revenge...

What could have driven her out of her mind?

Another young woman, named Ella Malone, knocks on the door of the home of Henry Stewart. She is there in response to his advertisement for a new secretary. Her experience appears satisfactory, and he hires her for the job. She gives him the money to be used for a surety bond, and he gives her a receipt.

Then, he shows her the rest of his very unusual, self-designed house....

"Murder Castle" was written/produced by Arch Oboler. Joseph Kearns starred as Henry Stewart. Also appearing were Mercedes McCambridge and Gladys Holland. The names of the other performers are not given.

Download Lights Out - 1938-02-16_Murder Castle

This episode was performed a second time on August 3, 1943. All  recordings of this show are the same; therrefore, I  don't know if the episode starring Joseph Kearns is from  1938 or 1943. If you know, please leave a comment.  Thanks!

(Image of the real "Murder Castle" in Chicago, Illinois)

Lights Out - The Dark

In the Lights Out episode "The Dark", two men enter a room in which they find a terrifying new kind of darkness..

As the episode opens, a doctor and a policeman are driving through the country in response to a request for help.

When they arrive at their destination, they find an empty house. At first, they think the call may have been a false alarm, but when they enter, they find a hysterical woman.

The doctor is certain that the injured person must be in the other room, and when they break down the door, they find a man...turned inside out...and a creeping black mist...

The Lights Out episode of"The Dark" aired on December 29, 1937, but the original recording is lost. Below is a short episode that was recreated for the 1962 Arch Oboler album Drop Dead! It runs a little over eight minutes, much shorter than the original half-hour show.

 

The Shadow - The Gibbering Things

In The Gibbering Things", The Shadow must solve a mystery involving a demented professor and the small creatures that make those gibbering sounds heard in the woods...

As the episode opens, dapper man-about-town Lamont Cranston, (a.k.a The Shadow), is traveling with his lovely friend and companion, Margot Lane. They are going to spend the weekend with her aunt, who lives in rural New Hamsphire. On the way to Aunt Sue's place, their driver entertains them with the local legends about the "haunted woods" nearby.

The driver assures them that it is all just a big bunch of hoo-ha...but people are said to have gone into the woods and disappeared, and there are creatures that make a funny gibbering sound, and there are screech owls that make unnerving screams. But, none of those things should worry them.

When they arrive at Aunt Sue's house...she isn't there. As the search the grounds for her, they hear a gibbering sound...and The Shadow soon discovers that the "haunted woods" are a very, very weird place indeed.

"The Gibbering Thing" was written by Alonzo Deen Cole. Bill Johnstone starred. This episode aired on September 26, 1943.

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The Mysterious Traveler - Behind the Locked Door

In The Mysterious Traveler episode "Behind the Locked Door", two archaelogists on an expedition discover a haunted mountainous cavern, where a wagon train was cut off from the world.

The episode opens in the mountains of Lake Mead, Arizona. A car winds down the road and stops at a mountain lodge. A young woman named Cathy Evans hurries up to the front door and knocks...until Martin, her fiance answers.

Martin returned alone and unexpectedly from an expedition last night, spent one hour in town and then disappeared without telling anyone where he was going. Now, she finds him here. He is obviously wounded and sick. Cathy demands to know what has happened! 

Martin finally tries to explain...but Cathy can't believe his story could be true. 

"Behind the Locked Door" was written, produced and directed by Robert Allan Arthur and David Kogan. Lyle Sudrow and Robert Donnelly. This episode aired on November 6, 1951.

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Lights Out - Knock at the Door

In Lights Out episode "Knock at the Door," a woman is haunted by the ghost of her mother-in-law after pushing her down a well.

As the episode opens, Ella tells us about her childhood fears of death, but now there is no reason to be afraid. She wants to die now. Ella has a noose around her neck. All she has to do is step off the ladder. In her mind, she hears her father saying, "The wages of sin are death."

Ella recollects how it all started, when she first married Jay, and he brought her home unannounced. Jay thought his mother would be surprised, but she was not impressed that her son had brought home...a woman.

From that moment on, Ella was a guest in her own home. Everything belonged to her mother-in-law, and Ella had nothing. So, she decided to get rid of her mother-in-law...and then everything would belong to Ella. Or, so she thought.

"Knock at the Door" was produced and hosted by Arch Oboler. The names of the specific author and actors are not given. If you know them, post them in the comments section below. This episode aired on December 15, 1942.

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 (Image of Lights Out host Arch Oboler from Wikipedia)

Lights Out - Come to the Bank

In the Lights Out episode "Come to the Bank", a desperate woman tries to save the man she loves when he becomes trapped inside a wall of marble.

As the episode opens, Miss Ada Moss must get someone to come to the bank with her. Anyone! She needs help urgently! Actually, she isn't the one who needs help, it is her friend, Mr. Roth.

She explains that she and Mr. Roth are both teachers at the same school. She teaches physics and he teaches psychology. Miss Moss had taken quite a liking to Mr. Roth, but he was very involved with his own ideas about concentration and the power of the human mind. In particular, he was convinced that if one concentrated with enough intensity, people could move objects with their mind power, transport themselves to other places, and do other incredible things. The key was to direct the powers of mind over matter.

At first, Miss Moss was enamored by his deep, experimental thinking, but when he began to spend too much time "concentrating" his mind power, she tried to convince him to take a vacation.

Miss Moss decided to get some money out of the bank in order to take Mr. Roth out to the country, but while they were in the bank lobby, Mr. Roth suddenly announced that his subconsciousness had reached its maximum point of incubation. Now was the time to make use of his power! Mr. Roth chose to prove his point by walking through a marble wall.

The problem was that he didn't walk all the way through it, as much as he got stuck in it.

So, now Miss Moss must get someone to help her get Mr. Roth out of the marble wall...

"Come to the Bank" aired on November 17, 1942. The producer/host was Arch Oboler. The name of the specific author and actors aren't given. If you know them, post the answer in the comments section.

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(Image of Lights Out host Arch Oboler)

Suspense - Can't We Be Friends?

In "Can't We Be Friends?," Elliott Lewis stars as a creepy guy who can't get his ex-girlfriend out of his mind...until he comes up with a way.

As the episode opens, Michael Gordon asks Dr. Meyer if Frances is dead. The doctor doesn't answer right away, he wants to hear Michael's story first. So, Michael explains about his relationship with Frances Murphy...

They started dating about six months ago. He fell in love, but Frances didn't feel the same. Then, she fell ill and had to go to the hospital for surgery. Michael moved on to someone else, but he couldn't get Frances out his mind.

So, he went over to see her. Frances was still recuperating from her illness, and wasn't too pleased to see her ex. Still she let him in. After a while, it seemed maybe there was a chance to reconcile, but then she remembered what kind of guy he really was and told him to get out. 

 Michael decided that the best way to stop thinking about Frances was to get rid of her entirely...

"Can't We Be Friends" was written by Elliott Lewis and produced and directed by William Spier. Elliott Lewis starred as Michael Gordon. Also appearing were Lurene Tuttle, Wally Maher, Jerry Hausner, Irvin Lee, and Betty Moran. This episode aired on July 25, 1946.

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(Image of Elliott Lewis from Wikipedia)

Suspense - The Next Murder

In "The Next Murder," a man takes pity on a stranger and then ends up in jail for murder.

As the episode opens, two men meet at a lunch counter and start chatting. The topic turns to the subject of the recent murder in Springdale. Then, one of the men leaves...but they run into each other again outside.

John Kotter has no place to stay, so Fred Spong offers to share the room he rents. He sneaks his new friend past the clerk and up into his room, but soon regrets his generosity. John is obsessed with murder, particulary the Springdale murder.

Fred plans to ditch his new friend during the night and leave town, but before he does...

"The Next Murder" was written by Joseph Cochran and produced/directed by Fred Hendrickson. Joseph Julian and Lawson Zerbe star. Also appearing were Elizabeth Lawrence, Reynold Osborne, and William Redfield. This episode aired on July 22, 1962.

. Download Suspense_1962-07-22_Next Murder_

(Image of Lawson Zerbe)

Suspense - The Man Who Murders People

In "The Man Who Murders People," a woman on a commuter train becomes suspicious of the strange gentleman sitting next to her. 

As the episode opens, Kay Murray runs to catch a commuter train. On board, she tries to relax and read the newspaper, but she is bothered by the gruesome description of the Roseville murderer's latest crime. However, the man sitting next to her is fascinated by the crime! He wants to discuss every detail with her...but Kay wants him to go away. She lives in Roseville and is scared to be out at night.

Another man on the train comes to her aid and gets rid of him. Now, her nerves feel better and the whole thing seems silly.

Still, she lives in Roseville and is worried about what will happen when she gets off the train...

"The Man Who Murders People" was written by Marianna Norris and produced/directed by Paul Roberts. Vivian Smolen played Kay Murray, George Petrie played Mr. Jenkins, Alan Manson played Bill Mackenzie, and Maurice Tarplin played the conductor. This episode aired on November 13, 1960.

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(Image of George Petrie)

Suspense - Dynamite Run

In "Dynamite Run," Mason Adams stars as a high explosives trucker who is forced by circumstances to make one last dangerous run.

As the episode opens, a forest fire in the mountains requires a delivery of dynamite. Ben agrees to  take the job, although a month earlier, he promised his wife that he would stop hauling high explosives. He has to break that promise now because their daughter has fallen ill, and if he completes the run, they will have enough money to hire a nurse.

Ben signs the insurance papers that guarantee $100,000 in case of his accidental death, and he can't help but notice what a financial benefit it would be to his wife and daughter if he crashed the truck on purpose.

As Ben drives away, he promises his boss that he will be back the day after next--without driving over thirty miles per hour. He intends to keep that promise, but the escaped bank robber he meets on the road has other ideas...

"Dynamite Run" was written by Peter Fernandez and produced/directed by Paul Roberts. Mason Adams starred. Also appearing were Larry Haines, Elaine Rost, Robert Dryden, Herb Duncan, Bill Lipton, and James Boles. This episode aired on December 6, 1959. 

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(Image of Mason Adams)

Suspense - Witness for Death

In "Witness for Death," a man must choose between friendship and justice when he is subpoened to testify against an old army buddy.

As the episode opens, life is going great for Burt Claxton. He has a steady job, a wife and a baby. Add to that, their friends Randy and Kay Stoneman. Yes, Burt is a lucky guy....but, all of sudden, that changes...

One day, after work, Burt arrives at Riley's Bar and Grill looking for Randy. He is hoping that he might share a ride home, but instead, he sees Randy running out the back door in a hurry.

Later, the police come to his apartment and question Burt about what he saw at Riley's.

The police think that Randy was living above his means and was over his head with gambling debts. Randy couldn't pay, so he decided to kill the bookie in the back room of Riley's Bar & Grill instead.

Randy denies all the charges, but Burt knows he is lying.

Will Burt choose to do the right thing, or commit perjury to help his close friend?

"Witness for Death" was based on a story by television screenwriter and opera librettist Anne Howard Bailey and adapted for Suspense by Ronald Dawson. Paul Roberts produced and directed.  Frank Thomas, Jr. played Burt Claxton and William Redfield played Randy Stoneman. Also appearing were Ruth Tobin, Mary Jane Higby, Roger DeKoven, Guy Repp, and Maurice Tarplin. This episode aired on October 9, 1960.

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(Image of William Redfield)

Suspense - Hollywood Hostages

In "Hollywood Hostages," two members of a film crew don't realize they are in danger because they think their boss is playing a joke on them.

As the episode opens, Tommy and Grace are driving a lonely road into the California desert. Their boss, Murphy, has sent them out to a ghost town in the middle of nowhere to scout the location for an upcoming film project. This is her first picture with Murphy, and Tommy explains that, although their boss is a talented director, Murphy's practical jokes aren't always funny.

Meanwhile, two bank robbers, Tex and Fred, have already taken shelter in the abandoned town. Fred is injured, so Tex decides to leave him to die. But, before he can, Tex runs into Tommy and Grace, steals Tommy's car and leaves.

Tommy is certain that Murphy is playing one of his practical jokes, and he refuses to believe otherwise, no matter what happens...

"Hollywood Hostages' was written by Jerry D. Lewis and produced/directed by Antony Ellis. Eve McVeagh and Tom Brown starred. Also appearing were Don Diamond, Frank Gerstle, and John Larch. This episode aired on February 21, 1956.

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 (Image of Eve McVeagh from the film High Noon (1952))

Suspense - Escape to Death

In "Escape to Death," a doctor in Communist Hungary is forced to defect in order to assassinate an escaped politician.

As the episode opens, Dr. Gerner is having a brandy with the Hungarian deputy premier and a Russian commander. He is flattered by their attention, but then they come to the real reason for their interest in him. His devotion to Hungary is well known, and they have chosen him for an extremely dangerous mission.

They want him to escape to the West, and if his mission is successful, return to Hungary. What do they want him to do? Find former politician Karina Zanova, who was once his patient, and then kill her.  It is imperative to the Hungarian government that she be stopped before she can tell her story in the West.

Theirs is an offer that can not be refused without injury to himself and his family. But, if he succeeds in his mission, he will earn the party's undying gratitude.

Will he succeed?

"Escape to Death" was written by E. Scott Fleur and produced and directed by William N. Robson. Francis Lederer starred. Also appearing were Norma Jean Nilsson, Paul Dubov, Ted de Corsia, Fritz Feld, Jack Kruschen, Margie Liszt, Dick Beals, and Charles Lavalack. This episode aired on April 28, 1957.

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(Image of Francis Lederer from Wikipedia)

Suspense - The Thimble

In "The Thimble," an artist appears to die from a heart attack, but her daughter believes that it was murder.

As the episode opens, Miss O'Neal storms into the office of assistant district attorney, Charles Morgan.  She tells him that he needs to stop her mother's funeral...now....because her mother was murdered! But, no one believes her.

MIss O'Neal claims that it was her mother's physician, Dr. Cypress, who killed her. Not only was he treating her, but he was also the executor of her estate...and the two were having an affair.

When asked why her mother didn't leave her estate to her, Miss O'Neal explains that it was never an option...because she is insane.

Since the treating physician had refused an autopsy at the time of death, the assistant district attorney  now has reason to investigate...

"The Thimble" was based on a story by novelist and attorney Eleazar Lipsky, who is most well known for  the 1947 film Kiss of Death. Televison/radio screenwriter Allan Sloane adapted the story for radio.Television and Broadway actor Whitfield Connor starred. Also appearing were Joe Di Santis, Teri Keane, Paul McGrath, Danny Ocko, Jane Rose, Maurice Tarplin, and Ruth Tobin. This episode aired on November 22, 1959.

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(Image of Whitfield Connor from Aveleyman.com)

Suspense - The Storm

In "The Storm," a husband and wife dance team face the reality of their broken marriage while a hurricane bears down on the resort where they are performing.

As the episode opens, the narrator describes the dramatic way in which deadly hurricanes are formed in the Caribbean Sea...

Then we meet Larry Westin and his wife, Joyce. Together, they form a succesful dance team. 

While vacationing in Miami, Larry accepts a week-long booking from a nearby resort in Sea Beach. Joyce isn't happy when she hears Larry accept the offer on their behalf, but she has no choice but to go along. Joyce isn't happy about much these days. Success has gone to Larry's head, and now, he is a demanding schmuck.

The narrator then describes how the young hurricane grows and begins to move towards land...

Larry and Joyce arrive at Sea Beach. The ocean looks a little choppy but it isn't until the next day that they realize a hurricane is on the way. Larry doesn't care, whether Joyce leaves him or a hurricane crashes into the resort, he thinks he is invincible. Joyce can be replaced, but nothing can stop him!

Will the hurricane cut Larry down to size?

"The Storm" was written by Richard Chandlee and produced and directed by Elliott Lewis. Frank Lovejoy starred. Also appearing were Joan Banks, Joseph Kearns, Jerry Hausner, Sharon Douglas, and Rolfe Sedan. This episode aired on March 2, 1953.

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 (Image of Frank Lovejoy from Wikipedia)

Suspense - Thou Shall Not Commit

 Suspense's "Thou Shall Not Commit" starts out as a story of a doctor and wife who rekindle their love after moving to a remote tropical island. That is, until a manly sea captain blows ashore and the wife can't help but lust after him. The two start an affair and the doctor soon finds out.

He is willing to let go of his wife, if that is what she wants, but the problem doesn't really matter because the doctor will be dead soon. Nevermind the typhoon that is about to hit the island, the doctor's appendix is about to burst! The only way he can survive is if the sea captain performs the operation under the doctor's guidance...in the middle of a typhoon.

Will the captain take it as an opportunity to get rid of his competition, or will he discover which one of them is the truly manly man?

This episode is flawed by pretend pidgeon English, silly lusty dialogue,  truly misguided characters, and over-the-top plot twists...but somehow it manages to entertain.

"Thou Shall Not Commit" was written by Richard Weil. William Robson produced and directed. Victor Jory starred. Also appearing were Ellen Morgan, Joe Di Santis, Andy Elona, and Ben Ben Wright. This episode aired on April 14, 1957.

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(Image of Victor Jory from Wikipedia)

Suspense - Memory of a Murder

In "Memory of a Murder," a young man becomes involved in a love triangle with a jealous magician and his beautiful assistant. 

As the episode opens, Harry Jonas speaks of a vision....first, of a man digging a grave in a cemetery...and then later...of the same man's face on a poster for a vaudeville act.

The poster is an advertisement for...Constantine, Prince of Illusion.

While Harry is standing outside  the Pageant Theater staring at the poster, the manager comes out to post a "Help Wanted" sign. Before he can finish, Harry talks himself into the job.

Constantine's act involves knife-throwing and other illusions of violence, with which he is assisted by the lovely Marietta.

Even though Harry finds the act distasteful, he becomes smitten with Marietta. Then, he discovers that his predecessor, Nino, was in love with Marietta, too. Constantine didn't like Nino, so he killed him out of jealousy. It was Nino's grave that Harry saw Constantine digging in the cemetery!

Will Constantine go after Harry this time, Or Marietta?

""Memory of a Murder" was specially written for Suspense by John Roberts, but in his book, Suspense: Twenty Years of Thrills and Chills, Martin Grams, Jr. states that the episode was originally written for the CBS radio program Tales of Fatima (1949). Bruno Zirato, Jr. produced and directed. Philip Sterling starred. Also appearing were Connie Lemke, Ralph Bell, Ethel Everett (Remy), James Monks, and Lawson Zerbe. This episode aired on March 25, 1962.

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(Image of Philip Sterling)

Suspense - Run Faster

In "Run Faster," an air traffic controller must decide between the safety of his wife and the safety of an endangered airplane.

As the episode opens, Dave explains that during the war, he looked forward to coming home to a quiet life with his wife, Kris.  Now, he has everything he wanted, but his life has no excitement...and that makes him crabby.

Dave and Kris live in a small house near a remote emergency airfield where he works night shifts at the tower. Kris wants to move to the city, but Dave wants to keep working in aviation, even if that means working at the forlorn airfield.

On this particular night, they again are arguing about their situation when Dave leaves in a huff to do the midnight shift at the tower. What he doesn't realize is that before his shift is over, he will learn a lesson about what he really wants.

"Run Faster" was written by Lois Landauer and produced/directed by Fred Hendrickson. Appearing in the cast were Jimmy Blaine (image above), Jimsey Somers, Bill Lipton, Roger De Koven, Bob Reddick, Ted Pavel, and Guy Repp. This episode aired on August 5, 1962.

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On a more lighthearted note, here is recording of Jimmy Blaine singing the Pinocchio song "Give a Little Whistle."

Suspense - The A.B.C. Murders

The Suspense episode "The A.B.C. Murders" was adapted from the 1936 novel of the same name by Agatha Christie, but the radio version bears little resemblance to the original story. In the book, the mystery is solved by private detective extraordinaire Hercule Poiret, but Suspense's version leaves him out entirely. Instead, the story is condensed and uses only the basic plot from Christie's book.

As the episode opens, two librarians sit behind the counter and discuss the odd little patron who has just dropped off a book. Suddenly, they realize the man has left his briefcase behind. One of them, Franklin Clarke, catches up to the owner, and returns the case to him. The briefcase has the initials A.B.C. and the owner identifies himself as Alexander Bonaparte Cust.  The two chat for a while and find out they have some things in common.

Later, Mr. Cust prepares to start his new job as a traveling salesman. His first stop is Andover, but what he doesn't know is that the police are in Andover warning the public about a homicidal maniac planning to strike in Andover. The same thing happens in the next town Mr. Cust visits, Bexhill.

He quickly becomes confused. Does he have something to do with the murders? With his terrible headaches, Mr. Cust sometimes doesn't remember what he does...

"The A.B.C. Murders" was adapted for radio by Robert Tallman and William Spier. Ted Bliss directed and William Spier produced. Charles Laughton starred. Also appearing were Elsa Lanchester and Bramwell Fletcher. This episode aired on May 18, 1943.

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.  Download Suspense_1943-05-18_ABC_Murders_(AFRS)

(Image of the first U.K. edition from Wikipedia)

Suspense - The Peralta Map

In "The Peralta Map," Raymond Burr stars as a treasure hunter, who will stop at nothing to find a lost gold mine.

In the introduction to this episode, William N. Robson tells us that the facts  are true, but the story is imaginary, since none of the people involved lived to tell. Well, some of the facts are true. A number of facts and legends connected to the Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine were included in this story about two modern day treasure hunters.

As the episode opens, Henry Cracker and his friend, Willis, are driving on a Arizona highway with a horse trailer in tow. They are on their way to Lonnie's gas station before heading into the Superstition Mountains. The locals in Apache Pass have told them that Lonnie knows the area better than anyone, and they want to partner up with him for their expedition.

When they arrive at Lonnie's, Cracker and Willis tell him that they are in possession of a map that they believe will lead them to the Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine. Lonnie wants no part of their plan, but Cracker makes it impossible for him to refuse.

Later, when they are up in the mountains, Lonnie tells them about all of the others who tried to find the lost mine. All of those who tried...and then never came back. The mine is supposedly guarded by an unknown person who wears spurs, kills strangers with an old army rifle, and carries a cavalry sabre to cut off heads. An old Apache named Fat Dog claims to have seen him and heard the spurs...

Cracker and Willis choose to ignore the old man. How can they believe stories that happened so long ago? Besides, Lonnie may just be trying to scare them off because he wants to go home.

Will they find the mine? If so, will they live to tell?

"The Peralta Map" was written by television writer Charles B. Smith. William N. Robson produced and directed. Raymond Burr starred. Also appearing were Stacy Harris and Junius Matthews. This episode aired on March 10, 1957.

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See also the Escape episode "When the Man Comes, Follow Him" for another story about the Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine.

(Image of Raymond Burr from Wikipedia)

Suspense - A Matter of Timing

In "A Matter of Timing," a man hires a killer to murder his business partner but his plans soon go awry.

As the episode opens, a train departs the station...and two men meet on the platform. One is a hitman, and the other is Carl, a man who wants his business partner, Mark, killed. At first, the plan to kill Mark seems easy, but the hitman soon becomes weary of Carl and the unexpected delays.

Carl wants Mark killed because he hates being made to feel inferior. Mark wants to end their partnership, too, but feels a strong loyalty to his friend and business partner.

In the end, will Carl get what he wants?

"A Matter of Timing" was written by Ross Murray and produced/directed by Antony Ellis. William Conrad starred. Also appearing were Parley Baer, Virginia Gregg, Victor Rodman, Sam Edwards, Ralph Reed, and Robert Miller. This episode aired on June 12, 1956.

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(Image of William Conrad from Wikipedia)

Suspense - The Ten Grand

In "The Ten Grand," Lucille Ball plays a woman whose purse is snatched and then returned with someone else's money inside.

As the episode opens, Gigi Lewis narrates her experiences about the night her purse was stolen. She was standing outside of Lindy's restaurant on Broadway savoring the idea of T-bone steak smothered with onions. With nothing more than subway fare in her purse, savoring the idea was all she could afford.

Down in the subway, Gigi was about to go through the turnstyle, when suddenly, her purse was stolen! She screamed for help, and a big commotion followed. Later, her purse was returned to her by a man in the crowd.

When she opened her purse and reached for her nickel, she found a big wad of cash instead! Was this the answer to Gigi's prayers? Or, had she gotten herself into trouble?

"The Ten Grand" was written by Virginia Radcliffe and produced/directed by William Spier. Lucille Ball starred. Also appearing were Harry Lang, Patrick McGeehan, and John McIntire. This episode aired on June 22, 1944.

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Suspense - Fear Paints a Picture

In "Fear Paints a Picture," a young woman will inherit her father's fortune at age twenty-three...if she doesn't lose her mind first.

As the episode opens, the music whirls, and the announcer tells the story of Benjamin Powell, his strange family, and the last will and testament he left behind.

Then, creepy music plays, and the announcer reads the will aloud... 

In the event of Powell's death, his daughter, Julia, becomes the heir to his considerable fortune. But, the conditions of the will state that she must live in his old San Francisco home with two appointed guardians, Harvey and Laura Lyons, until she reaches age twenty-three. Provided that nothing "untoward" happens to her during that time, Julia will inherit her father's estate. If, she is unable to, then the estate will transfer to Harvey and Laura.

Three months later, Julia, Harvey, and Laura are sitting around the fireplace in the dark living room of Powell's old San Francisco home. Julia's twenty-third birthday is a week away, but Harvey and Laura are worried about her because she is such a "high-strung" girl. Julia doesn't see anything wrong with that, but then Laura finally tells her the truth. Julia's mother died in an insane asylum at age twenty-three!

Later that night, Dr. Barrows arrives. He had treated Julia's mother, and he is sure that he can help Julia with her problems....

"Fear Paints a Picture" was written by Sigmund Miller, produced by William Spier, and directed by Ted Bliss. Nancy Coleman starred. Also appearing were Bea Benaderet, Edwin Maxwell, and Fred MacKaye. This episode aired on April 13, 1943.

. Download Suspense_1943-04-13_Fear_Paints_A_Picture_

Suspense presented this story a second time, with a few changes to the introduction, on May 3, 1945. William Spier produced and directed. Lana Turner starred.

. Download Suspense_1945-05-03_Fear_Paints_a_Picture_

(Image of Lana Turner)

Suspense - The Death of Barbara Allen

"The Death of Barbara Allen" is one of a series of episodes that Suspense created to dramatize popular folk songs. The song "Barbara Allen" originated in England or Scotland, and the earliest known reference appears in 1666. The song was first printed in England in 1750 and in America in 1836.

The ballad of Barbara Allen usually takes place in Scarlet Town and  involves a young man named William, who is dying of unrequited love for Barbara. On his deathbed, he asks to see his love, but when she arrives, all she can say to him is, "Young man, I think you are dying." Later she regrets her cruelty and dies shortly afterward. They are buried side by side. A rose grows on his grave and a briar on hers, eventually they become entwined.

Some variations of the ballad explain Barbara's attitude as the result of her belief that William had not been true to her, and that is the version that Suspense has chosen to follow. In their dramatization, Barbara mistakenly believes that William loves the new girl in Scarlet Town. There is also the addition of a suitor named Sean, who tries to keep Barbara and William apart.

"The Death of Barbara Allen" was written by Morton Fine and David Friedkin.  Elliott Lewis produced and directed. Anne Baxter starred. Jeannette Nolan played the old woman and Joseph Kearns played Barbara's father. Also appearing were Harry Bartell, William Conrad, Louise Lewis and Junius Matthews. This episode aired on October 20, 1952.

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(Image of Anne Baxter)

Suspense - Mate Bram

Suspense's "Mate Bram" was loosely adapted from the true story of Thomas M. Bram chronicled by librarian/writer Edmund Pearson in his 1924 groundbreaking study of American crime, Studies in Murder. Instead of staying true to this Victorian horror tale of murder on the high seas, Suspense turned it into something similar to a 1940's noir.

Edmund Pearson's account of the true story of Mate Bram details the the events of a triple murder onboard the barkentine Herbert Fuller in 1896. The ship's captain, his wife, and the second mate were ax murdered by an unknown assailant in the middle of the night. The crew sailed the ship to Halifax, Nova Scotia, and ultimately, Mate Bram was accused of the crime. The case was transferred to Boston where, he was tried for murder not once, but twice, and found guilty by a jury both times. Bram served fifteen years, was paroled, and then granted a presidential pardon. 

You can read more about the case of Mate Bram, and other interesting true stories, on the website of the Center on Wrongful Convictions, Northwestern University School of Law. 

Suspense's version skips over all that, and portrays Bram as an alcoholic who lusts after the captain's younger wife. She lures him into her cabin with wine, and while he is lost in an alcholic blackout, three people are murdered. Since he can't remember what happened that night, he is blamed for the crime. All of this has nothing to do with the true story, but their version provides some memorably tawdry lines of dialogue like these:

Mate Bram: "...I stayed on because she was compelling, with a bold look...and because a man is always a hunter."

__________________________

Mate Bram: "Why does a young woman marry with a man like that and go sailing off on a ship with him...and eleven other men. No lady would do that, would she?"

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Mate Bram: "You are a married woman, Mrs. Nash."

Captain's wife: "I think that makes more difference to you than it does to me. Why are you so good?" 

__________________________

Captain's wife: "Whether I'm married or not, I'm a woman. Am I not?

Mate Bram: Yes, yes you are.

Captain's wife: And, I...deserve to have the company that I like. I...brought a bottle of wine.

_____________________________

"Mate Bram" was adapted for radio by Gil Doud and produced/directed by Elliott Lewis. Richard Widmark starred. Also appearing were Joan Banks, Joseph Kearns, Roy Glenn, Lou Merrill, Robert North, Steve Roberts, and Ben Wright. This episode aired on April 14, 1952.

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Suspense - Steel River Prison Break

In "The Steel River Prison Break," Jeff Chandler stars as a prisoner who makes a daring escape during a flood. This episode is supposedly based on actual events, but Suspense doesn't give us specific details, so it is difficult to narrow down the source of this story.

As the episode opens, Bragg tells us that he and his buddies had a prison break planned for Saturday... but on Tuesday, they learned that a flood was coming. So, they had to reschedule.

Bragg knows exactly what happens during a flood evacuation because he grew up nearby. So, he tells them not to worry. He has a new plan.

The following night, when the waters rise, the prisoners have to be moved to another facility, but Bragg and his pals overwhelm the guards and make a break for it. Their plan is to make it to Bragg's mother's house and hide there with her help.

Is that a plan that will work?

"Steel River Prison Break" was written by Richard Pedicini and produced/directed by Elliot Lewis. Also appearing were Joseph Kearns and Barton Yarborough.  This episode aired on September 3, 1951.

. Download Suspense_1951-09-03_SteelRiverPrisonBreak_

Suspense presented this story a second time on July 27, 1958. William N. Robson produced and directed. Bartlett Robinson starred. Also appearing were Eddie Firestone, Jerry Hausner, Jack Moyles, Barney Phillips, Norm Alden, and Sam Pierce. This episode aired on July 27, 1958.

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(Image of Jeff Chandler 1955)

Suspense - Last Confession

In "Last Confession," Dorothy McGuire stars as a young woman who can't remember if she committed a murder or not.

As the episode opens, Jessie is reading the newspaper and pouring over the details of a recent murder. Her roommate, Edna, thinks her curiosity is morbid, but Jessie dismisses her concerns. 

As Jessie continues to wonder about the identity of the murderer, she begins to harshly question her own whereabouts on the day of the crime. Did she do it? Was the murder victim an old boyfriend, or someone she didn't know? After a while, she gets so mixed up, she isn't sure... 

"Last Confession" was written by David Ellis, produced by William Spier and directed by Norman MacDonnell.  Dorothy McGuire starred. Also appearing were Georgia Ellis, Verna Felton, and William Johnstone. This episode aired on September 15, 1949.

.  Download Suspense_1949-09-15_Last_Confession_

 

Suspense - Two Birds with One Stone

In "Two Birds with One Stone," Dana Andrews stars as a writer who comes up with an elaborate, but not foolproof, way to get rid of his wife.

As the episode opens, Eleanor, and her dog, Tracey, are recording a birthday message for her husband, Walter.

Walter then enters the room, and complains about the noise they are making. He is in a foul mood because he is having trouble with the play he is writing. Eleanor offers to help, and so, he asks her to come up with dialogue for a character, who is about to commit suicide. Eleanor agrees and records a scene.

Afterward, Eleanor and Walter go out for a walk, but only one of them comes back...

"Two Birds with One Stone" was written by Mel Dinelli and produced/directed by William Spier. Dana Andrews starred. Also appearing were Cathy Lewis, Joseph Kearns, and Wally Maher. This episode aired on May 17, 1945.

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Suspense - Circumstantial Terror

In "Circumstantial Terror," Ronald Reagan stars as an average guy who is framed for a murder he didn't commit.

As the episode opens, Frank Thompson explains how he came to be broke and unemployed. Things hadn't been going well for him, but then, one night, he went to the liquor store for a pack of cigarrettes...and things got worse.

After a brief argument with a rude storekeeper, Frank left the shop in a huff. Later, he went back to apologize...and found the storekeeper murdered!

Frank saw the real murderer leave the scene of the crime, but no one believes him. Now, he is going to be tried for first degree murder. Can Frank convince his court appointed public defender that he is telling the truth?

"Circumstantial Terror" was written by Ross Murray and produced and directed by Elliott Lewis. Ronald Reagan starred. Also appearing were Charles Calvert, Hal Gerard, Howard McNear, Vic Perrin, Kurt Martell, and Clayton Post. This episode aired on March 8, 1954.

. Download Suspense_1954-03-08_Circumstantial Terror

(Image of Ronald Reagan as a radio announcer in Des Moine, Iowa, 1934-37 from Wikimedia.)

Reagan also starred in the Suspense episode "One and One's a Lonesome" (1950)

Suspense to be inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame!

Suspense is finally going to be inducted this year! (Better late than never!)

Click below to be taken to the Radio Hall of Fame website to read more about this year's inductees.

List of Radio Hall of Fame 2011 inductees

Now, seriously, what about out Escape?

(Thanks to Dixon for sending me the news!)