Lux Radio Theatre - A Tale of Two Cities

Summary

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Podcast Summary: Lux Radio Theatre – A Tale of Two Cities

Podcast: Harold’s Old Time Radio
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode Date: July 5, 2026
Original Broadcast: Lux Radio Theatre, Lux Presents Hollywood
Stars: Orson Welles (Sydney Carton), Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette), Dennis Green (Charles Darnay)

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Overview

This episode of Harold’s Old Time Radio presents a classic Lux Radio Theatre adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities. Set against the chaos and violence of the French Revolution, the story follows the intertwined paths of Sydney Carton, Charles Darnay, and Lucy Manette—exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption. Orson Welles delivers a haunting portrayal of Carton, anchoring a dramatic retelling that captures Dickens’ signature emotional intensity and social commentary.

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Key Discussion Points and Plot Segments

Introduction & Setting the Stage

[01:06 – 03:14]

• Narrator/Host sets the historical and literary context of Dickens’ work and its legacy.
• The curtain rises on Paris during the Reign of Terror: vivid descriptions of the bloodshed and the looming threat of the guillotine.

Act I: Prison and Past Revealed

[04:21 – 12:06]

• The condemned await execution in La Force Prison.
• Charles Darnay (under the assumed name Evremond) is identified among those sentenced to die.
• Sydney Carton (Welles) poses as Darnay; a moving, somber exchange ensues with a young seamstress, revealing Carton’s willingness to sacrifice himself.
• Flashback: England, 1768 – The story rewinds to Darnay’s origins and the Manette family’s struggles.
• Dr. Manette, broken from long imprisonment, is reunited with his daughter, Lucy, in a powerful scene of recovery and familial love.

Notable Quote:

“You are going to die for him.”
— Seamstress to Carton (Rosemary DeCamp), [06:23]

Act I: Darnay’s Trial in England

[13:04 – 19:59]

• Darnay is accused of treason in a London court; Dr. Manette and Lucy testify.
• Sydney Carton, a clever but disillusioned barrister, discredits the key witness with a pointed cross-examination (exposing mistaken identity due to a resemblance to Darnay).
• Darnay is acquitted.

Notable Quote:

“It could have been me you saw with those supposed lists that night, could it not?”
— Sydney Carton (Orson Welles), [18:28]

Exploration of Characters: Carton and Darnay

[19:59 – 25:11]

• Carton and Darnay share a post-trial banquet, deepening the contrast between Carton’s cynicism and Darnay’s optimism and gratitude.
• Carton’s self-disgust and sense of being unworthy surface as he contemplates his wasted life.

Notable Quote:

“Because I care for no man on earth. No man on earth cares for me. Much to be regretted. You might have used your talents better?”
— Sydney Carton (Orson Welles), [21:59]

Foreshadowing Revolution

[24:17 – 25:57]

• Lucy muses on distant thunder as “footsteps that will one day enter our lives.”
• Carton ominously describes “a great crowd coming,” presaging the onslaught of the Revolution.

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Act II: Secrets, Suffering, and Sacrifice

[28:29 – 33:04]

• Darnay reveals his true identity as an Evremond, a family with a bloody aristocratic history, to Dr. Manette. The confession reawakens Manette’s trauma.
• Carton comforts Lucy and reveals his deep, unrequited love.

Notable Quotes:

“You’ve been the last dream of my soul.”
— Sydney Carton (Orson Welles), [33:40]
“I would embrace any sacrifice for you. Or for those dear to you.”
— Sydney Carton (Orson Welles), [34:14]

The Storm Breaks: Revolution Engulfs France

[34:53 – 37:08]

• Revolution overtakes France; the Bastille falls.
• Darnay leaves for Paris to save a former steward, despite the danger to himself.

Darnay’s Imprisonment and Family in Danger

[39:57 – 44:39]

• Darnay is arrested in Paris, and Dr. Manette, Lucy, and daughter travel in hopes of freeing him.
• At his trial, Dr. Manette testifies to Darnay’s innocence, securing a brief reprieve.

Madame Defarge’s Vengeance

[44:45 – 48:53]

• Madame Defarge reveals her personal vendetta against the Evremond family, dramatically reading Dr. Manette's letter recounting his imprisonment and the family’s crimes.
• The tribunal sentences Darnay to death, sealing his fate and the family's doom.

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Act III: Sydney Carton's Sacrifice

[49:49 – 58:09]

• Carton arrives in Paris, plans to save Darnay, and instructs Lucy’s family to prepare for escape.
• Carton bribes his way into the prison, switches places with Darnay, and drugs him to effect the substitution.

Notable Quotes:

“If you remember the words that passed between us long ago, you will understand when you see this... There is nothing that I would not do to keep a life you love beside you.”
— Sydney Carton (Orson Welles), [55:19]

Final Scene: The Guillotine and Redemption

[58:15 – 59:34]

• Carton is led to execution with the seamstress, both showing courage.
• The broadcast closes with Carton’s immortal last words (taken verbatim from Dickens):

“It is a far, far better thing that I do than I have ever done. It is a far, far better rest that I go to than I have ever known.”
— Sydney Carton (Orson Welles), [58:55]

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Memorable Moments & Quotes with Timestamps

• Dr. Manette's recognition of Lucy:
  “I remember a little girl with long golden hair.” — Dr. Manette, [11:14]
• Carton's Devotion:
  "You've been the last dream of my soul." — Sydney Carton, [33:40]
• Madame Defarge's Revenge:
  “For every stitch another head shall roll... my family... those dead are my dead.” — Madame Defarge, [45:50 – 48:53]
• Carton's Last Words:
  “It is a far, far better thing that I do...” — Sydney Carton, [58:55]

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Thematic Notes and Performance Highlights

• Orson Welles delivers a multi-layered, nuanced Sydney Carton—by turns sardonic, tragic, and quietly noble.
• The production masterfully interweaves personal tragedy with sweeping historical drama, emphasizing themes of resurrection, redemption, and self-sacrifice.
• The sound design and pacing evoke the oppressive atmosphere of the Terror while keeping the focus on the human drama.

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Timestamps for Major Segments

| Segment Description | Timestamp | | -------------------------------------------------------------- | ------------ | | Opening/Historical Context | 01:06–03:14 | | Prison Scene/Flashback Begins | 04:21–07:29 | | Darnay’s Trial in England | 13:04–19:59 | | Carton & Darnay Confrontation | 19:59–21:58 | | Lucy’s (Thunder) Premonition | 24:17–25:57 | | Carton’s Confession to Lucy | 33:04–34:14 | | Bastille & Revolution Scenes | 35:48–37:08 | | Darnay’s Arrest & Paris Intrigue | 39:57–44:39 | | Madame Defarge’s Speech/Final Accusation | 44:45–48:53 | | Carton’s Sacrifice Plan & Prison Swap | 55:05–59:34 | | Carton’s Final Words | 58:55 |

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Closing Thoughts

This episode is a vibrant example of Golden Age radio drama, delivering suspense, romance, and historical grandeur in under sixty minutes. Orson Welles’ portrayal of Carton is a standout, culminating in a final act of selfless heroism that embodies Dickens’ moral vision. The production maintains a brisk narrative while offering rich characterization and emotional depth, making it accessible and moving even for listeners unfamiliar with the novel.

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Note: All timestamps refer to the podcast episode’s continuous timeline. Sections containing advertisements and non-content were omitted from this summary as per guidelines.

Transcript

[Narrator]

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[Frank Craven]

Lux presents Hollywood. The Lux Radio Theater brings you Orson Welles and Rosemary decamp in A Tale of Two Cities. Ladies and gentlemen, your guest producer, Mr. Frank Craven.

[Announcer/Host]

Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Between the peoples of the English speaking world, fortunately many strong and common bonds. Respect for freedom and democracy, a sense of fair play and a love of tolerance. And to those bonds you may well add a common love of Dickens. There are many writers we pay homage to, but none has come as close to our hearts or moved us so thoroughly to tears and laughter as the author of tonight's great story, A Tale of Two Cities. And I say great, not from my judgment only, but because time and the world have called it so. And Dickens himself expressed the humble hope that posterity would consider it the best thing that he had ever written. For to him, it was an attempt to explain in terms of one man's life and actions, one of the most inexplicable and violent periods of human history. The French Reign of terror, when 25 million people armed with torch and saber bathed Europe in the blood of vengeance. Here indeed is the material of drama recorded by a vivid and imaginative writer and portrayed for us tonight by two stars worthy of this staunch assignment. Orson Welles and Rosemary de Camp, both veterans of this stage and of the screen and theater. Originally, most of Charles Dickens works were published in installments and came to America by sailing vessels. Records tell us of how crowds thronged the wharves of New York City to receive the latest news of their favorite heroine or hero. For already, the names of Dickens characters were household words. As much, I imagine, as luxe toilet soap is a household world throughout America today. And for very much the same reason, the ability to find approval among people of all kinds of ages and in every walk of life. Not only among women who are anxious to preserve their loveliness, but with every member of the family, young and old, luxe toilet soap is quick to make friends and to keep them. And now our curtain rises on Europe 150 years ago as we bring you the first act of A Tale of Two Cities Starring Orson Welles as Sydney Carton and Rosemary de Camp as Lucy Manette. With Dennis Green as Charles Darnay. Paris, 1793. The French Revolution is over. The cause is won, but the bloodshed has only started. The Reign of Terror sweeps through the land in all its fury, and each day Madame le Guillotine has fed her share of human life. The dripping glade rises and falls and the crowd counts in monotonous rhythm as each noble head rolls to the. The knife rises again and sweeps downward. 22 lives in a single day. And more to come. And more and more. Until nightfall draws a curtain on the scene. Behind the bleak walls of the forest prison, the doomed of the following day await their fate in a bare dungeon cell. A single lantern throws a ghostly glow on their faces. With a rattle of chains, the great iron door is flown open.

[Frank Craven]

Everyone rise. Rise. Aristocrats, in the name of the people

[Narrator]

of France, the tribunal hereby declares that you shall be put to death by the guillotine on the morning of February 2, 1793. Citizen Jailer, which one of these is Charles Evremond? Everyman, step forward.

[Frank Craven]

Evremond. Charles Everman.

[Narrator]

Call Charles Cernay. Which one of you is he?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

I am. Everyman, Step forward.

[Narrator]

Charles Everyman, known as Charles Darnay. In view of the excitement occasioned by your trial, it was felt that some

[Frank Craven]

small favor would be in order.

[Narrator]

We have decided, therefore, that you shall

[Frank Craven]

live long enough to witness the execution of your friends here. 51 heads will fall tomorrow.

[Narrator]

Yours will be the 52nd.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Citizen Evremont.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Yes.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

I didn't know you were here with us. So dark.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Oh, yes. What is it you want? Chris?

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Don't you know me? I'm Giselle, Seamstress. We were brought to La Force together.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Oh, of course. I forget for the moment of what you were accused.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

They accused me of plotting. But I'm innocent. How could I plot against the Republic? I'm nothing. I'm no one.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Don't cry, child. It's too late for tears.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

I try to be brave. Soon the morning will come. It's growing light even now.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

You have an hour yet. That's more. Ask God for courage.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Look, sun's rising. I'm afraid that I'm glad. At least we can see again.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

What is it?

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

You. You are not a grimace. You are not Charles Everymore.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Quiet.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

I knew Charles Everymore. His eyes were blue. He was a brown. His hair was light. And your. Who are you?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Like you, I am nobody. Nothing.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

You are going to die for him.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Why Monsieur, I could never make you understand.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

But I could set you free.

[Madame Defarge]

One word from the end.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Can't do that.

[Narrator]

You must not.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Please.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Please tell me about yourself.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

How can I?

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

It would help so if you'd talk to me. Perhaps it would help you too.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Monsieur, there's so much to tell. So began so long ago.

[Narrator]

When?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

25 years ago. 1768. Have you ever been in England?

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

No, never.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

There's a long hill on the Dover Road that sweeps down to the sea. A pleasant road on a summer day with the sun shining. The devil's own highway. At night in the winter rain. Just that sort of night in 17, 1868, a coach topped the rise of the hill. The mail bound east for Dover.

[Narrator]

Get up there. Get up. Get up. Top of the hill, Tom. Better rest them for a moment. We'll be lucky if we make the boat. Retaliation. Listen.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Hear that? What do you say? I say a horse at the canter

[Narrator]

coming up the hill. I. I say horse at a gallop. Oh, there stand her old fire. Who are you?

[Announcer/Host]

What do you want? Is that the Dover mail?

[Narrator]

I want a passenger.

[Madame Defarge]

What passenger?

[Narrator]

Mr. Jarvis Laurie.

[Announcer/Host]

Keep where you are.

[Narrator]

Is there a gentleman name of John

[Frank Craven]

Laurie in the coach?

[Narrator]

I am Lorry. Who wants me? It's me, Mr. Lorry.

[Frank Craven]

Jerry.

[Narrator]

I know this messenger guard. There's nothing wrong.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

I hope, sir, ain't.

[Madame Defarge]

Hello.

[Narrator]

You come on at a foot place. Well, Jerry, what is it? A dispatch, sir, sent after you from London. Be quick about reading it. Sir.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

I don't like this.

[Narrator]

It's not very long, you see. Wait at Dover for mademoiselle. Very good. Jerry. Yes, Mr. Laurie? Ride back to London as fast as you can. Tell them my answer was recalled to life.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Recalled to Life. And with Mr. Laurie's business that night, to recall to life a man who had been buried alive for 18 years a prisoner of the French nobility. The man had escaped and was now hidden by friends in the village of St Antoine. To that village went Mr. Laurie to the wine shop of a certain Madame Defarge.

[Narrator]

You are Madame Defarge?

[Madame Defarge]

I am.

[Narrator]

My name is Jarvis Laurie. I've just arrived from London. This young lady with me is Miss Lucie Manette.

[Madame Defarge]

Good morning, Mamdel.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Please tell us, is my father here? Is he safe?

[Madame Defarge]

Your father? There is no one here, Mamzel.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

But Mr. Laurie was told.

[Narrator]

One moment, my child. Madame Defarge. Perhaps I should have presented my credentials sooner.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Recalled to life.

[Madame Defarge]

There is a man here. A man old beyond his years. A mender of shoes. Will you come this way? My husband and I have kept him locked in a room up the stairs.

[Narrator]

Did you say locked?

[Madame Defarge]

Yes.

[Narrator]

Of his own desire, of his own necessity.

[Madame Defarge]

He has lived too long alone. He would be afraid if his door was left unlapped.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Oh, Mr. Lorry, I'm frightened.

[Narrator]

Touch, my dear.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

What indeed.

[Madame Defarge]

Dr. Manette, you are hard at work.

[Narrator]

Yes, I am working.

[Madame Defarge]

You have a visitor, Doctor. Show him the shoe you are making. Now, tell Monsieur the maker's name.

[Narrator]

You ask my name?

[Madame Defarge]

Yes.

[Narrator]

One hundred and five North Tower.

[Madame Defarge]

That is all.

[Narrator]

One hundred and five North Tower.

[Madame Defarge]

You see, Monsieur? He remembers nothing.

[Narrator]

Dr. Manette, do you remember nothing of me? Look at me. Is there no old banker, no old business rising in your mind? Think of England. A man who was your friend. Jarvis. Laurie.

[Madame Defarge]

It's no use. This is what they have done to him.

[Narrator]

Lucy. Come here, my child. Now speak. Call him. Speak to him as you did long ago.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Father. Father.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Who is this?

[Madame Defarge]

Oh, Father.

[Narrator]

Do you remember, Dr. Minette? I remember a little girl with long golden hair.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Ages, ages ago.

[Narrator]

What was her name? Her name? She laid her head upon my shoulder when they came for me that night. Don't let them take you, Father. Hush, my child. My baby. Lucy.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

They crossed the channel that night to a safe refuge in England. There, for five years the good doctor rested. Until at last his memory returned and he was well again.

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[Frank Craven]

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[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Refreshers contain caffeine. But now in the English courts, a trial was in progress. A trial of a certain Charles Darnay, accused of plotting treason against his majesty his government. Dr. Manette, called as a witness, sat with his daughter near the judge's bench. The court was hot, humid. For me, one man seemed quite at ease. The assistant counsel for the prisoner, his court wig dipped in a slovenly fashion over one eye. His court gown stained with wine. His name, if anyone was interested, was sitting Sydney Carton. Carlton, we must act quickly. With the evidence they presented, Darnley will hang by morning. Carton, do you hear me? I hear you, Mr. Striver.

[Announcer/Host]

Well, what shall I do?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

If I were you, I should sit down. Darnley is my client. I'm trying to protect him. I pay you well for your assistance, and I expect to have you. You will have it, Mr. Stryver, when the time comes. See, you've already had your bottle today. Two, I believe.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Drunk?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Always drunk. Carton, listen to me. At the present time, I'm more interested in Dr. Manette.

[Narrator]

Dr. Manette to the stand. You are Dr. Manette? I am Dr. Manette. The prisoner, Charles Darnay, has been accused of carrying secret messages from Louis of France to spies here in England. Look upon the prisoner. Have you ever seen him before? I don't know, really. Is it not true, Dr. Manette, that the prisoner was a fellow passenger with you five years ago on a boat from Cali to Dover? I cannot say. When I came from France that night, I had been newly released from a long imprisonment. I have little remembrance of the occasion. My mind was a blank for some time. I see. Your daughter made the trip with you, did she not?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Yes.

[Narrator]

That will be all. Are there any questions from the defense?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Any questions, Carlton? No questions.

[Announcer/Host]

No questions, your worship.

[Narrator]

Ms. Lucy Manette to the stand. And now, Ms. Manette, look upon the prisoner, please. Have you ever seen him before?

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Yes.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Where?

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

On board the packet boat.

[Narrator]

You mentioned you spoke to him, you were friendly with him?

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Yes.

[Narrator]

Good. And now tell me, did he come aboard alone? No.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

When the gentleman came on board.

[Narrator]

You mean the prisoner?

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Yes.

[Narrator]

Then say the prisoner.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Oh, when the prisoner came on board, there were two gentlemen with him.

[Narrator]

But these two did not make the crossing?

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

No.

[Narrator]

Now, tell me, did you see them give certain papers to the prisoner that night?

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

No.

[Narrator]

You're sure of that?

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

I. I don't know. It was dark.

[Narrator]

Then they might have given him certain papers. Is that right?

[Madame Defarge]

Yes, but I.

[Narrator]

That will be all, Miss Venice, please.

[Madame Defarge]

I know he isn't guilty.

[Narrator]

That'll be all, please. Are there any questions from the defense?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Well, Carton. No.

[Narrator]

Carton, you're mad.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

No questions.

[Announcer/Host]

No questions, your Worship.

[Narrator]

Your Worship, the prosecution would like to recall its chief witness, the prisoner's accuser, Mr. John Bar said.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Now, Striver, we might have some questions.

[Narrator]

Mr. John Bar said. Right here, sir. Mr. Barstead, look upon the prisoner. Do you recognize him? I do, sir. He's a spy against his magistrate's government, that's what he is. I was on that mail packet myself that night, and I saw the kind of papers that passed into the hands of the prisoner. They were lists of our troops. Thank you, Mr. Barstead, and no more questions. The cards hold. What is that?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Well, Carlton, ask him these questions I've written down here.

[Announcer/Host]

Mr. Barstead, how do you know the

[Narrator]

papers you saw were lists of British soldiers? I saw them.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Ah, you saw them.

[Announcer/Host]

Then you took them out of the pockets of the prisoner, Charles Darnay?

[Narrator]

Yes, sir. No, sir, they fell out.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

They did?

[Announcer/Host]

Oh, then you didn't take them. You're not a spy yourself. A man who makes his living by

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

making accusations, just or otherwise, against his fellow countrymen.

[Madame Defarge]

That's a lie.

[Narrator]

A downright insinuating lie. One moment.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Well, Carlton. Mr. Stryver, you have no imagination. Mr. Barton, where did you get money to live?

[Narrator]

On my property.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Your property? Where is it?

[Narrator]

I. I don't exactly remember.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Then perhaps you can remember how you got that property.

[Narrator]

I inherited it.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

From whom?

[Narrator]

From relatives. Distant relatives.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

How many times have you been in prison? Six times, isn't it?

[Narrator]

What's that got to do with it?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Everyone kicked a cheating dice. Well, now, Mr. Barthard, you are positive as the prisoner you saw that night with those lists?

[Narrator]

I am.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

It couldn't possibly have been someone else.

[Narrator]

No, it could. Mr. Downey, you will please face this witness now.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Mr. Barsad, look at Mr. Downey. Look at him carefully. Well, now, Mr. Barsad, look at me.

[Frank Craven]

At me.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

The assistant counsel for the defense. You notice a resemblance between us? We are very much alike, are we not?

[Narrator]

Well, now that you mention it, you are.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

As a matter of fact, it could have been me you saw with those supposed lists that night, could it not?

[Madame Defarge]

Well, now I.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Could it not, Mr. Barad? All right. Yes, that's all. Thank you.

[Madame Defarge]

Order. Order.

[Announcer/Host]

Are there any more questions?

[Narrator]

The jury will retire to consider its service. As the jury agreed. We have your own worship. And how do you find the prisoner, Charles?

[Madame Defarge]

Darn.

[Narrator]

We find the prisoner not guilty, Mr. Donnet. May we congratulate you, sir.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Thank you, doctor.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

I'm happy our testimony did you no harm.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Thank you, Ms. Lucy. I'm sure it did nothing but good.

[Narrator]

It was Mr. Carton who really won your case.

[Frank Craven]

Mr. Carton.

[Narrator]

Mr. Carton, sir.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Don't call me May. I thank you, sir, for saving my life. Yes, only a part of my business. Mr. Carton, this is Dr. Manette. And Ms. Lucy Manette, Mr. Carton. How do you do?

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Oh, we thought you were splendid, Mr. Carton.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Mere professional claptrap. May I ask, sir, how did you happen to notice the resemblance between you and me? Oh, it was very simple. I looked at you and admired your bearing and your character. And you see, I have nothing but admiration for myself.

[Narrator]

Lucy, my dear, we must go.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Goodbye, Mr. Darnay. Will you call at our house soon?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Thank you, miss Lucy.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

And Mr. Carton.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Aye, thank you.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Good day, then.

[Narrator]

Good day, gentlemen.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Good day, Doctor. Mr. Carton, would you care to dine with me? Oh, you feel you must repay me? I could never repay you for my life, sir. Don't be too certain. Bottle of wine or two? My fees are very low. Another glass, Mr. Darling? Thank you. I've had enough. How does it feel to be alive again instead of hanging by your neck? Well, I'm a little confused regarding time and place, but it's good to feel at home in the world again. Oh, it must be an immense satisfaction to me. The world has very little to offer except wine like this. So you and I are not very much alike in that particular Howe. You speak very faintly, mister. Darn, I. I didn't speak at all, sir. Oh, come, Mr. Downey, call a help. Propose you to what? Toast on the tip of your tongue, man that's been there all evening out of it. Very well, then. Miss Lucy Manette. Miss Marinette. There's a fair young lady to hand into a coach in the dark, eh? Mr. Darnley? There's a fair young lady to be pitied by and wept for by. How does it feel, Mrs. Darnay? Is it worth being tried for one's life to be the object of such sympathy and compassion? I don't take your meaning, sir. Darnay, let me ask you a question.

[Narrator]

Do you think I particularly like you?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

You've acted as if you do, but I don't think you do. I don't think I do either. Nevertheless, I hope there's nothing in that dislike to prevent my calling for the reckoning and parting without your blood. Nothing at all. You call the whole reckoning. And I may, sir. In that case, innkeeper, more wine.

[Madame Defarge]

Yes, sir.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Good night, Mr. Carton. One last word, Mr. Darnay. You think I am drunk. I think you have been drinking, Mr. Carton. You know I have been drinking. Well, since I must say so, I know it. You should likewise know. Why? Because I care for no man on earth. No man on earth cares for me. Much to be regretted. You might have used your talents better? Maybe so, Mrs. Darling. Maybe not. Good night, sir. Good night. And don't let your sober face elate you never know what it may come to.

[Narrator]

Innkeeper, the wine.

[Announcer/Host]

Coming, sir.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Well, well, carton. Has Mr. Donny shown you what you've fallen away from? What she might have been? Change places with him. And would you have been looked at by those blue eyes as he was? Come on, have it out. In plain words. You hate the fellow.

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[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Sydney Carton knew it was too late to change his way of life. But he took to brushing his shabby coat and combing his untidy hair. And there were times even when he remembered that a gentleman does not drink himself nightly into a stupor. On Sunday afternoons, he would appear in Ms. Manette's garden, sitting quietly, speaking, but seldom, for Charles Darnay was there too. One evening, Charles, just at dusk, an approaching storm sent them indoors.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Listen. It's coming soon, Mr. Darnay.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

It comes slowly but surely.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Isn't it impressive? Sometimes, when I've sat here, of an evening like this, listening to the thunder in the distance, I've had such a strange fancy. I've imagined that the thunderclaps were echoes. The echoes of footsteps that will one day enter our lives.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Well, if that is so, there is a great crowd coming into our lives. I take them into mine gladly.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

It was my foolish fancy, Mr. Carson.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Well, there is a great crowd bearing down upon us now. Thousands upon thousands. Here they come. Fast, fierce, furious.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Oh, you make my fancy seem too real, Mr. Carson.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

There was a great crowd coming into their lives. A numberless, overpowering crowd which one day would decide the fate of these three. At first it was but a whisper in the city of Paris. A whisper that was to grow with the years into a crashing roar of hatred. Slowly but surely, as the storm came, the crowd was coming to up from the cellars of Paris, up from the bare fields of a starving peasantry. The crowd was coming, chanting its hate, screaming for blood. The people of France in all their

[Frank Craven]

might, rising in revolution.

[Narrator]

In just a moment, Frank Craven.

[Frank Craven]

And our stars, Orson Welles and Rosemary Decant will return in Act 2 of A Tale of Two Cities. And now, here's the dance floor music. A Soldier and His Girl.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Did I ever dream this afternoon I'd be dancing with you tonight? Bill, I just couldn't believe it when

[Madame Defarge]

you saw me from the stage.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Gosh, what a thrill seeing you. You're pretty to the neighbor.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Mary, you're sweet to say that, Bill. And me wearing my old rainy day dress. I planned to wear a real glamour gown for our first date.

[Narrator]

Well, you look like a glamour girl

[Frank Craven]

to me, Mary, with those eyes and

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

that peaches and cream skin.

[Frank Craven]

Say, I wouldn't care if you were

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

wearing blue jeans, darling.

[Frank Craven]

It takes a lovely luxe complexion to win a compliment like that. There's something irresistible about soft, smooth skin. That's why screen stars, lovely women everywhere never take chances with complexion beauty. They've discovered a care so simple, so effective that they use it regularly. Here's what pretty Ann Baxter says.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

I wouldn't dream of neglecting my daily luxe toilet soap facials. Active lather leaves my skin so soft and fresh.

[Frank Craven]

Luxe toilet soap is a real beauty soap. You see, the gentle, extra creamy lather is ripe for delicate skin.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Feels like smoothing beauty in when you cover your face with the rich luxe soap lather. I work it in gently but thoroughly. I rinse with warm water, then splash with cold. Pat my face dry with a soft towel. That's my beauty facial. It really does things for my skin.

[Frank Craven]

Why not try these Hollywood beauty facials famous screen stars use? They really make skin lovelier. Recent tests showed actually three out of four complexions improved in a short time with this daily luxe soap care. Remember, gentle Lux toilet soap is Hollywood's own complexion soap. We pause now for station identification. This is cbs, the Columbia Broadcasting System,

[Announcer/Host]

Act two of a tale of two cities, starring orson welles as sidney carton and rosemary decamp as lucy manette. In La Force prison, awaiting death by the guillotine, the man called Darnay continues his story. The little seamstress, condemned to die with him within the hour, listens quietly, her eyes fixed on his face.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

As time went on, Sydney Carden appeared less and less frequently in the men at home. For he knew that Lucy loved Charles Darnay. There was an evening In April, almost 10 years ago that Charles Darnay spoke to Lucy's father. I've only hinted at marriage to Lucy, sir. I didn't want to speak until. Well, there are certain things about myself that you should know. Yes, Dr. Manette. My name is not Darnay. I chose that name when I first left France. And my heritage? Heritage? I'm of noble birth, sir, but I do not boast of it. Through generations, my family gained its wealth at the expense of the poor. When my uncle died, I was the sole remaining heir. I returned to France to sign away my title to the estate.

[Narrator]

Why do you tell me this?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Because, sir, I. I know what you have suffered at the hands of the French aristocracy.

[Narrator]

Your uncle's name. And yours.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

What.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

What was it? Saint Everymond. The Marquis Saint Everymond? He was.

[Narrator]

Doctor, you're. You're ill, sir. No, child. Lucy is not to know what you

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

have just told me. Not now.

[Narrator]

Do you mean not now or ever? She is not to know.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Your word. Very well, Doctor. You. You have my word.

[Narrator]

Now go.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Please. Go.

[Narrator]

And mountain every morning.

[Bluff Radio Host]

Father.

[Madame Defarge]

Father, let me in. Father is Lucy. Let me in. Oh, please.

[Frank Craven]

Lucy.

[Narrator]

What is it?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

What's the trouble?

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Sydney?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

I got your message. Anything wrong?

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

It's father. He's been locked in his room all day.

[Madame Defarge]

I'm so afraid.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Dr. Manette, open the door. Dr. Manette, I found a key in the storeroom. Give it to me and take Miss Lucy downstairs. Come, my dear.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Come, my lady.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Doctor Manette. Dr. Manette, what are you doing? Do you hear me, doctor? What work is this? You're doing a lady's shoe?

[Narrator]

We young ladies walk.

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[Narrator]

It should be finished. Let me be.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Is he all right?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

He's all right. Dr. Jimson is with him.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

You've been very kind to stay so long. I tried to reach Charles, but he wasn't at home. So worried.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

There's nothing to worry about now. A few days, he'll be well again.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

What could have caused it after all these years, to go back to that? What happened to him?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

How can we know? A shock. That some sudden jolt of memory. Man's mind can play queer tricks, you know.

[Madame Defarge]

I brought you a cup of chocolate.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Oh, thank you, Ms. Cross.

[Madame Defarge]

And the doctor says everything will be all right. You're not to worry.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Oh, thank you.

[Narrator]

Well.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Oh, Sydney. You're not leaving?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

It's growing late. Not for me, of course, But I doubt if you see the dawn very often.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

No, I don't. But I can welcome it today. A few hours ago, everything was so black and fearsome. Now all my troubles are past. All my hopes reborn. It's always that way, isn't it?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

There are some hopes a man may have which remain in the shadows forever.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Do you have such hope, Sidney?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

No more. I'm like one who died young.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Sydney, you've come often to the house in the past few months. And yet we know very little about you. Except that you're our friend. Is there nothing I can do to help you, Sydney?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

I could never hope to repay what you've already done. May I tell you something? Will you hear me without shrinking from me?

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

What is it?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

You've been the last dream of my soul. Seeing you here in your home has stirred old shadows that I thought had died out of me. I've heard whispers from old voices impelling me upward that I thought was silent forever. I've had unformed ideas of striving afresh, fighting out the abandoned fight. A dream. Or a dream. But I wish you to know that you inspired it.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Oh, didn't he? Will nothing of it remain?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Perhaps as a dream might linger on after the dreamer awakes. But try to hold me in your mind as sincere in this one thing. I would embrace any sacrifice for you. Or for those dear to you. Think now and then that there's a man who would give his life to keep a life you love beside you. The poor fool. Cotton. Drunk.

[Narrator]

Drunk.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

This time with self pity. And from that day on, he was seen rarely in the man at home. He was there when Lucy and Dan were married. And again some years later when their child was born a girl. But his visits were short, as he'd slip away at the first opportunity. In france during these years, the echoing footsteps of the crowd had been growing louder. Grim patriots who were to bathe the soil of France in the blood of the hated nobility. Then the storm broke in all its fury. In July 1789, they swarmed from the rat holes of Paris to cover the country with a blanket of red. An army of vengeance bent upon destruction and death.

[Madame Defarge]

The bastille is fallen. The bastille is ours.

[Narrator]

Uncitizen.

[Madame Defarge]

The bastille is swallowed. Madame defarge, how can you sit and knit so calmly on this day? Our victory will come only when every noble head has Rolled from every noble shoulder and in this nitty gritty I have inscribed their names the names of those who have starved us, killed us and for every stitch another head shall roll for every stitch we shall be avenged. Who is it?

[Narrator]

Who's that? Open the door. What do you want at this hour?

[Frank Craven]

I'm looking for Mr. Sydney Carton.

[Narrator]

The inn is not open. There's no inn in London open at

[Madame Defarge]

this time of night.

[Narrator]

I want to see Mr. Sydney Carton. Let me in.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Now, where is he?

[Narrator]

He's in there. Carton.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Cotton, wake up.

[Frank Craven]

Wake up.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Who is it? Who? Tommy.

[Frank Craven]

Oh.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Oh, Mr. Donny. Welcome, Mr. Darnay. You have some wine? No time for that.

[Frank Craven]

Listen to me.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

I'm leaving for Paris within the hour. Paris? There's some business there that I must attend to at once. Paris. Very warm this time of the year. If I were your lawyer, I should advise against the journey. How much do you know of me? This is an Excellent wine, Mr. Darnay. French wine from the cellars of the aristocrats who fled the country. There will be few of these bottles left now, being poured into the streets along with the blood of the nobles who once drank it. Must you go to Paris, Mr. Darnay? I see there's little I have to explain to you. But I received a letter this morning from a man who was once my servant. They threatened to send him to the guillotine unless he can explain why he's in possession of certain property. That's why I must go, to save his life. What of your own life? I'll be in no danger. I've renounced my inheritance. It's easily proved. Why do you come to me? There's no one else I can turn to. I don't know how long I shall be gone. I. I should like to feel that there's someone here in London who's watching over my family. Hi. You trust me to watch over your child? Your wife? Yes. I know that you love her. When did you say you must leave? Tonight. Now, have no fear about your family. They'll be safe. Thank you, Carton. Good night. Good night. Godspeed.

[Narrator]

Carton.

[Announcer/Host]

More wine, sir?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

No. Now, take it away.

[Narrator]

You there, in the coach. Where are you going, citizen? I'm going to Paris. Let me see your papers. If you'll hurry.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Please, citizen, I must be in Paris within the hour.

[Narrator]

What is your name, citizen?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Carl D. Also known as Everyon.

[Frank Craven]

Why?

[Narrator]

Why, yes, but I. You are consigned Evon to the prison of La Force.

[Frank Craven]

In just a moment. Our stars will return in Act 3 of A Tale of Two Cities.

[Narrator]

Hey everybody.

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[Frank Craven]

And now, here comes our young friend, Sally. My Sally. That's a pretty corsage you're wearing.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

I got it at the flower show this afternoon, Mr. Kennedy. What a lovely show it was, too. A regular preview of a spring garden. Lilies of the valley, lilacs, daffodils, narcissus. Oh, and dozens of other kinds of flowers.

[Frank Craven]

I can't think of anything more refreshing to see right now, Sally.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

The whole air was fragrant with them. A fresh, delicate perfume you never tire of.

[Frank Craven]

A fresh, delicate perfume you never tire of. Now, when you say that, Sally, you make me think of something.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Why, of course, Mr. Kennedy. The perfume of luxe toilet soap.

[Frank Craven]

Sure thing. Because that's just what the makers of Lux soap had in mind when they created its perfume. They knew women would enjoy delicate, subtle fragrance like the combined scent of many spring flowers.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Yes, and they do enjoy it, Mr. Kennedy. Screen stars say that's why Luxo makes a wonderful bath. So it leaves such a lovely clinging fragrance on the skin.

[Frank Craven]

Well, it took a lot of experimenting to make that Luxo perfume to be statistical, Sally. It took a blend of 34 different ingredients. It's a fragrance that's distinctive and different.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

And expensive too, I should think.

[Frank Craven]

Yes, many of those ingredients are costly, but the price of luxe toilet soap is very low because so many millions of cakes are sold every year. It's a thrifty as well as a luxurious bath soap.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Here's a little trick I've discovered other women might like to know about. I flip a few cakes of Lux soap in my dresser drawer till I want to use them. They make a perfect sachet for my lingerie and handkerchief.

[Frank Craven]

Thanks, Ellie. Why don't you enjoy the luxury of this fine, fragrant white soap? 9 out of 10 screen stars recommend

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

use it for your daily beauty bath.

[Frank Craven]

Luxe soap is hard milled to satin smoothness. It's economical.

[Madame Defarge]

It's.

[Frank Craven]

Each cake can be used to the last thin sliver. And now Frank Craven returns to the

[Announcer/Host]

microphone for a verbal introduction to our stars. Tonight, you're invited to join us after the final curtain for a brief chat. Now, Act 3 of A Tale of Two Cities, starring Orson Wells as Sydney Carton and Rosemary DeCamp as Lucy Manette. The sun rises slowly over the roofs of Paris and along shadow the guillotine falls against the walls of La Force prison. In the cell of the condemned, Sidney Carton speaks in a hushed voice, his story meant only for the ears of the little seamstress.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

They brought, Charles Darnay, hid in La Force prison to be held in secret. Somehow the news filtered back to England. Soon his wife and child were in Paris with Dr. Manette and Mr. Laurie, their old friend. For months they waited for some word from Dana in his cell. But no word came. And every day through the streets the tumbrils passed, filled with the condemned on their last journey to the guillotine.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Father, did you see him? Did you see Charles?

[Narrator]

No, they would not take me to his cell. But I have news.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Yes?

[Narrator]

Charles is summoned tomorrow for trial.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Tomorrow? Oh, Father.

[Narrator]

I think it will go well, my child. They're going to allow me to testify for him.

[Madame Defarge]

You?

[Narrator]

Why?

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

They'll brand you a traitor.

[Madame Defarge]

They'll kill you. Father.

[Narrator]

No. My child. I bear a charmed life in this city. I have been a prisoner of the Bastille. Silence. Silence. Dr. Manette, is this tribunal to understand that you endorse the accused, the prisoner Charles Evremonde? That is so. He is of noble blood. He is a true traitor. He is no traitor. I will swear to it.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Dr. Manette, we know your life, the cause you fought for. You are one of us.

[Narrator]

Yes. And as one of you, I speak. The accused, Charles Everymond, was my first friend when I was released from the Bastille. The accused, Charles Everymond, is my daughter's husband. In all these years, he has had no power in the tyranny against which we fought. He has renounced his share of the estate and returned it to the people. Charles Evremond is no enemy of the Revolution. I give you my word, he is innocent.

[Madame Defarge]

Free the prisoner. If the doctor of Beauvais says he is innocent, free him.

[Narrator]

Is the jury ready to declare itself? We are. How say you, then? Let the prisoner be freed.

[Madame Defarge]

Wait. Wait. I say the prisoner cannot be free.

[Narrator]

Citizeness Defarge.

[Madame Defarge]

I say the prisoner still stands accused.

[Narrator]

By whom, citizeness?

[Madame Defarge]

By three voices. By my husband, Ernest Defarge, by myself.

[Announcer/Host]

And the third, by the doctor of

[Madame Defarge]

the way, Dr. Alexander Manette.

[Narrator]

I protest.

[Madame Defarge]

I protest against it.

[Narrator]

Continue, citizeness.

[Madame Defarge]

Hear me, all of you. Dr. Manet, you have said Charles Eberman was your first friend. I was your first friend. It was to my wine shop you were brought where you made shoes under my care. You knew yourself then only as a number 105 North Tower, the cell in which you had been confined. Is that not true?

[Narrator]

If you say it is, I must believe it. I can't remember, but I remembered.

[Madame Defarge]

I resolved one day to examine that cell. And on the day the bat steel fell, I went to 105 North Tower. Hear me, citizens. In that cell, hidden of a stonework, of a wall, I found a paper. A paper written by Dr. Manette in the year 1767, before the dark and loneliness drove him mad. It is that paper I hold in my hand now. It describes in the doctor's words how he was called one night to attend a peasant girl dying in a miserable bed of rags. A girl and her unborn child in the stable. Her brother, with a wound in his chest, was to breathe his last before the morning. And why? Because these two creatures had protested. Protested against the noble family who held them in bondage and protested against the murder of the girl's father and her husband, killed by those same noble hands. The doctor buried the girl and her brother the following morning. But he had seen too much and heard too much from the lips of that dying girl. That night the doctor was thrown into the Bastille. The noble family had silenced him forever. And the name of that family? The name of those murderers? Ha Nevreman. Yes. Han Everyman. And now hear this. Listen to the words of Dr. Alexander Burnette himself. The words he wrote. I, Alexander Manette Tesno the Bastille, having thus set forth the causes for my imprisonment, do renounce the Marquis and every man and his descendants against the time when these crimes shall be answered. For I denounce them to heaven and earth. No. No. Stop. You ask me to stop? Listen to me. I have long had the crimes of the Evermont family knitted in my register. But my husband. Is that so?

[Narrator]

It is so.

[Madame Defarge]

On the great day when the bath field fell, I brought this paper home and we read it together. My husband and I asked him, is that soul? It is Then I told him that I had a secret to communicate with him. I struck this bosom with these two hands as I strike it now. And I said, defaz. I was brought up among the fishermen of the seashore. And that peasant family so injured by the Eberman is my family. That sister of a mortally wounded boy Was my sister. That husband was my sister's husband. That unborn child was their child. That brother was my brother. Those dead are my dead. And that summons to answer for those things is sends to me. Ask him. Is that so?

[Narrator]

It is cold then.

[Madame Defarge]

A window and fire to stop. But don't sell me. What say you citizens? Justice. Everyone. So free.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Back to the prison of La Force to await death by the guillotine. That was the sentence passed by the tribunal. That same night a coach left Calais for Paris carrying but one passenger. Slouched low in his seat, his shabby great coat pulled high about his neck. Reaching Paris, he haunted the inns and taverns, wandered like a lonely ghost through the city and at last made his way to the lodging house where Lucy waited. News from the forest.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Sidney. Sydney Carlton.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

You must forgive my coming at this hour. I didn't wish to be seen.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

I knew you'd come. I've been waiting. Sydney. They're going to take child. They're going to kill him.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

How long has he?

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Until the morning. And they won't let me see him. I can't be near him in these last hours.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Lucy, remember what you said long ago. The dark hours before the dawn.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

There'll be no dawn tomorrow. It'll be dark now.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Always. Lucy, if there was some way I could comfort you. You must hope.

[Madame Defarge]

What hope is there?

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

What comfort? My husband is going to die.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Lucy. Oh, Sidney, forgive me. You were right. I have no strength to offer you.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

You came to us tonight. I shall never forget that.

[Bluff Radio Host]

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[Narrator]

I tell you it is useless to speak to Dr. Manette. He's in no condition to see you now.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Mr. Mr. Laurie, if you will forgive

[Narrator]

me, there is nothing you can do here. Mr. Carton. Nothing.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Mr. Laurie, you are a man of business, are you not?

[Narrator]

I am.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Well, I am here on business.

[Frank Craven]

Really?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

I know your opinion of me, Mr. Laurie. But a drinking fellow may learn things around the town if he can listen. At the same time I've learned that Dr. Manette is in great danger. He and Lucy must Leave Paris tonight.

[Narrator]

Leave Paris?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

They must take the child with them.

[Madame Defarge]

But.

[Narrator]

But why?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

The revenge of Madame Defarge does not stop with Charles. The accusation is against the Marquis of Saint and all his race.

[Narrator]

Lucy, her child.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Now may I see Dr. Manet?

[Narrator]

It would do no good, sir. He's gone back to his work.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

His work?

[Narrator]

He would not know what you are saying, Mr. Carton.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Ms. Laurie, you have a pass that will let you through to Calais. Will it serve for Dr. Manet and Lucy?

[Narrator]

Yes, for as many as are with me.

[Frank Craven]

And you will use it.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Tonight you will arrange for a coach to meet you all here at midnight. The coach will take you to the side gate of La Force prison.

[Frank Craven]

Do you understand?

[Narrator]

Prison.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

There you will be joined by another person who will make the trip with you to England. You will not stop to ask questions. Proceed at once to the gates of Paris and on to Calais as fast as the coach can take you.

[Madame Defarge]

But this.

[Narrator]

This other person, who would it be? Who?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Mr. Sydney Carton.

[Narrator]

I don't understand.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

I may be in poor condition for travel. I usually am at that hour. But as soon as I'm in the coach, drive on.

[Narrator]

But you at the gate of La Force.

[Frank Craven]

Will you be within the prison, roommate?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Yes. Yes, I'm going to see Charles. A certain Mr. Barsad, English spy, is a turnkey in the prison. He'll open the doors for me.

[Narrator]

I don't understand all this, sir. But you give me hope.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

And you will save them all, Mr. Lorry.

[Narrator]

Not only I, sir. I shall have a young and ardent man at my side.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

With the help of heaven, you shall. Tell me, Mr. Lorry, yours is a long life to look back on.

[Narrator]

I'm in my 78th year, sir.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

You've been useful all your life. Trusted, respected. There are many in this world who would miss you.

[Narrator]

A solitary old bachelor. No, there is nobody to weep for me.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Wouldn't she weep for you, Lucy? Yes.

[Narrator]

Thank God. I didn't quite mean what I said.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

It is a thing to thank God for, isn't it? Surely. Surely, if you had to say with truth tonight. I have gained the love of no human creatures. I've done nothing good nor serviceable. To be remembered by your 78 years would be 78 heavy curses, would they not?

[Narrator]

I think they would be. But you are not old, Carlton.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

No, I'm not old. But the road I took was never the way to age. Good night, Mr. Vorin. How long before Daniel take it from his hill? What were the others?

[Narrator]

I can't tell that. Perhaps only an hour now.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Leave us alone. Stay within call.

[Narrator]

Did you keep your promise? I told you that I could get you in and out again. But the boats are trying to leave.

[Madame Defarge]

No.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

I know. Open the door.

[Narrator]

Who's there?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Have you come for cotton?

[Narrator]

You?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Of all the people on earth, I am the least expected. Is that it?

[Frank Craven]

Why are you here? You shouldn't have taken the risk. It can serve no purpose.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

I can serve one. I bring you a message from Lucy. A request.

[Narrator]

Request?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Rather, that you do exactly as I say and ask no questions. Take off your coat. Yes, take it off and change it for mine. Quickly now. Man, are you mad?

[Frank Craven]

Do as I say.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

It's her wish. Put on my coat. Your hair rumplet so as mine is. Carton. There's no escaping from this place. You'll only die with me. Have I mentioned escape? Do as I say. Now take my cravat. Here, give me yours.

[Frank Craven]

Carton, I warn you, it's.

[Narrator]

Be quiet.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Look, we have pen and ink on the table. Is your hand steady enough to write? It was when you came in. Well, steady it then. And write what I dictate. Quickly now. To whom do I address it? To no one. Write. If you remember the words that passed between us long ago, you will understand when you see this. Have you written that? I don't.

[Narrator]

What? What vapor is that? Vapor.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

This is a strange vapor. Something that crossed me. I am not conscious of it. Take up the pen and finish. I told you once that there was nothing that I would not do. Nothing that I would not. What is it? There is something that.

[Frank Craven]

That odor.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

You mean this on my handkerchief?

[Narrator]

Yes.

[Madame Defarge]

Yes, it's.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

It's old, so.

[Frank Craven]

Breathe deeply.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

No, no, no. Breathe. Breathe.

[Frank Craven]

But I can't breathe.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

You down there.

[Narrator]

I have finished.

[Announcer/Host]

I read it.

[Narrator]

Oh, what's this? What's the matter with him?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Nothing's unconscious. Carry him out of the gate.

[Madame Defarge]

But you.

[Narrator]

You changed clothes.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Listen to me. Sydney Carton fainted from the shock of parting with an old friend. You'll find a coach at the side gate. Put him into it. Tell him to drive as fast as they can to Calais. No, wait. I'll finish this note. If you remember the words that passed between us, you will understand. I told you once that there was nothing I would not do to keep a life you love beside you. God bless you for your sweet compassion. Here. Take this note and hurry. Oh, there.

[Madame Defarge]

Oh.

[Narrator]

Where are you going? To Kelly.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Who are you?

[Narrator]

Jarvis Laurie, from Telson's bank. Past Dr. Manette, past his daughter, past his grandchild. Who's that on the floor.

[Madame Defarge]

He.

[Announcer/Host]

He is Mr. Sydney Carson.

[Narrator]

Ms.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Him. Sydney Carton, huh?

[Narrator]

Fast. Open the gate. Let this coach go through.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

They're on their way now. Perhaps by this time they've reached Galahay. Abound for England and home.

[Madame Defarge]

And you.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

You are Sidney Carnes?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Oh, yes.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

And you're dying for him. For Charles Darnay?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Oh, no. For someone else.

[Narrator]

Aristocrats, your carriage is awaiting. Six tumbrils will carry the day's wine to Madame la Guillotine. Guards, take them out. You, everyone. It will be as I promised for you.

[Frank Craven]

You shall wait for the last tumbril.

[Narrator]

Your head shall be the 52nd today.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

I'm ready.

[Narrator]

Move along, Lair. Move along.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Mr. Garden. May I. May I go with you?

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Keep your eyes on me, child. Mind nothing else.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

I mind nothing while I hold your hand.

[Madame Defarge]

49, 50. One.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

It is a far, far better thing that I do than I've ever done. It is a far, far better rest that I go to than I've ever known.

[Announcer/Host]

We lower our curtain on the roaring crowds of Paris and the sacrificial destiny of Sydney Carton and raise it again on the stars who have made tonight's performance such a vivid memory. Orson Welles and Rosemary de Camp.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Well, Frank, it was a real privilege to be cast as Sidney Carton and to play opposite Rosemary.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Thank you, Orson.

[Announcer/Host]

Orson, I understand that for your many attributes of writer, actor, producer and magician, you've added a new one. Journalism.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

That's right, Frank. I've got a newspaper column running now called Orson Welles Almanac.

[Announcer/Host]

Yeah, I know. I have a copy here.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Full of biting witticisms, I imagine, Frank.

[Announcer/Host]

Well, it depends upon what you call biting witticisms. It starts with the following items. Never salt turnips while cooking. Always wash spinach with warm water.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Arthur, aren't you afraid you'll start a social revolution with those radical ideas?

[Announcer/Host]

And the final item in the column is as follows. Always use luxe toilet soap for the complexion.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Wait a minute. I've been sabotaged.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Oh, no, you haven't, Orson. That's the best advice that you could give to any girl who wants to look her best.

[Announcer/Host]

And I can see it's the advice you follow. Rosemary, tell us, what was your first bit of acting in the theater?

[Madame Defarge]

The very first.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

I was a bunny in an Easter pageant.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

The original female Harvey.

[Madame Defarge]

Were you ever a rabbit?

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Arthur?

[Announcer/Host]

Well, if he hasn't been, just give him time. He'll get around.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

As a matter of fact, when I was five, I impersonated Peter Rabbit in Marshall Fields department store.

[Announcer/Host]

Well, anytime you Two want to be rabbits. Here in Lux we lay in a supply of carrots.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Thanks. What do you have for Lux next Monday night? Frank?

[Announcer/Host]

For next Monday night we have a deeply moving play that brings us some of America's best loved music. It's the 20th Century Fox hit Swanee River. The story of that brilliant, colorful composer, Stephen Foster, whose life of romance brought us such immortal songs as Old Kentucky Home, Susanna, Jeannie with a light brown Hair, Old Folks at Home and many others.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Whom do you have in the cast, Frank?

[Announcer/Host]

Well, for this special occasion, we have a gentleman whose billing always read the world's greatest entertainer. Al Jolson co starred with the ever popular Dennis Morgan and the lovely Francis Gibbon.

[Orson Welles (Sydney Carton)]

Well, that sounds like a great combination, Frank. Good night.

[Rosemary DeCamp (Lucy Manette)]

Good night.

[Madame Defarge]

Good night.

[Announcer/Host]

And happy history to you. And now, a brief reminder from Uncle Sam that to the millions of American men and women overseas, enough is more important than mail from home. Write often, make your letters cheerful, and be sure to use V Mail. V Mail is private, speedy, safer, and it helps to lighten the burden of delivery. Our sponsors, the makers of Lux Toilet Soap, join me in inviting you to be with us again next Monday night when the Lux Radio Theatre presents Dennis Morgan, Al Jolson and Francis Gifford in Suwannee River. This is Frank Craven saying thanks for listening and good night.

[Frank Craven]

Frank Craven will soon appear in the 20th Century Fox 30th anniversary production, Colonel Effingham's raid. Orson Welles, currently working in the international picture Tomorrow Is Forever, can be heard on this Is My Best every Tuesday over this network. Rosemary decamp will soon be seen in the Warner Brothers picture Pride of the Marines. Heard in tonight's play were Dennis Green as Charles Darnay, Griff Barnett as Dr. Manette, Verna Felton as Madame Defarge, Norman Field as Lori and Ken Christie, Charles Seal, Loreen Tuttle, Ferdinand Monier, Jay Novello, Robert Regent, Eric Snowden, Boyd Davis, Paul McVeigh, Alec Harford, Thomas Mills, Regina Wallace, Virginia Gordon and Herb Litton. Our music was directed by Louis Silvers. This program is broadcast to our fighting forces overseas through cooperation with the Armed Forces Radio Service. Our Lux Radio Theater production of A Tale of Two Cities has come to you with the good wishes of the makers of Luxe Toilet soap, the beauty care that nine out of ten Hollywood screen stars use. This is your announcer, John M. Kennedy, reminding you to tune in again next Monday night to hear Suwannee river with Al Jolson, Dennis Morgan and Francis Gifford.

[Narrator]

Hey, everybody.

[Lady Luck]

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