(78) Magic Island - Sailboat Pickup

Summary

Episode Summary: Magic Island - Sailboat Pickup

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: 78
Date: June 11, 2026

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Main Theme & Purpose

This episode brings listeners to the climax of the "Magic Island" adventure, where the Gregory party attempts a daring escape from a stolen Euclidean submarine. As they race across the Catalina Channel toward a rendezvous with Johnson’s sailboat, escape plans are enacted using high-tech devices and split-second decisions. The episode captures the danger, ingenuity, and camaraderie of a group battling mysterious technology and adversaries from the magical and scientific world of Euclidea.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Progression

Submarine Escape Preparations

• The Gregory party, pursued by a Euclidean submarine via a magnetic beam, is nearly at their escape rendezvous.
• Joan reports: “We are nearly to the point you have established for Johnson to meet us with his sailboat catcher.” (01:33)
• Plans are made to escape using special cylinders (escape cells) designed by Joan.

Explanation of the Escape Procedure

• Joan calmly explains how to enter the escape cells and prepare for ascent:
  “The explanation is very simple. Jerry, will you please open one of those four large cylinders just forward of this compartment?” (01:52)
• The group follows her step-by-step as they nervously prepare their escape.

Deployment of Magnetic Bombs

• Joan releases four magnetic bombs to sever the pursuing sub’s connection:
  “The bombs have been released. In a few seconds, that magnetic beam will be broken.” (03:05)
• The submarine shakes and then stabilizes, readying the group for their escape to the surface.

Tense Escape to the Surface

• The escape cells are described as cramped but functional.
• Joan outlines the surface procedure:
  “The procedure is this. We will ascend one at a time. You will find a small valve directly in front of your chest...” (05:36)
• Captain leaves first, followed by the others. Joan remains behind to ensure proper flooding and disables the sub to prevent pursuit.

Reunion at the Surface

• The group emerges and, after a moment of tension, all are present except for Joan, who is briefly missing, prompting concern from Pat:
  “I'm getting worried about her, Tex.” (07:46)
• Joan surfaces just as anxiety peaks, explaining her escape was complicated by magnetism trapping her cylinder.

Aboard Johnson’s Sailboat & Sailing Home

• Johnson helps the party board. They recap the dangerous exploits, including the effects of the magnetic bombs and the disabling of the other submarine.
• Joan modestly explains her actions:
  “I did only what I had been trained to do.” (10:19)
• The conversation is warm and grateful, recognizing Joan’s ingenuity and Johnson’s steadfast help.

Discussion of Remaining Dangers

• The group assesses the risks: the magnetic bombs won’t hold forever, and a new threat emerges in the form of destructive musical notes from the island.
• Captain notes: “Some musical genius on the island has figured out how to transmit musical notes which will wreck those boats. He nearly hit us a couple of times.” (11:46)

Cliffhanger Ending

• As the boat is rocked by mysterious explosive sounds, Joan warns:
  “Octavo has found a musical note. Our submarine is being attacked. Those are the compressed air tanks exploding.” (12:03)
• Tension builds with the realization: “We didn't get out of that boat any too soon.” (12:10)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Joan’s Technical Calm:
  "The moment we were released from that magnetic beam, our submarine started to spurt forward. And not wishing to run beyond the position of our meeting with Johnson's surface boat, I used all reverse jets. We are now stationary and will remain stabilized at this point." (03:45, Joan)

• Pat’s Maternal Worry:
  “I'm getting worried about her, Tex.” (07:46, Pat)

• Jerry’s Humor and Relief:
  “There sure isn't any room to spare in these tin cans.” (05:33, Jerry)
  “And she's on, boy. Oh, sure, she's all right. That girl can take care of herself.” (08:57, Jerry)

• Joan’s Bravery:
  “I released the balance of the bombs in order to ensure the stabilization of our boat. And the magnetic force spread more rapidly than I had counted on. It nearly stopped me.” (09:19, Joan)

• Captain’s Praise:
  “Looks like we've done all right, Pat. And we owe everything, all of it, to Joan.” (10:14, Captain)

• Johnson’s Humble Heroism:
  “It was like the old days with the captain. I enjoyed every minute of it, though I must admit, it did look pretty black there at times.” (10:48, Johnson)

• Joan’s Introduction to Johnson:
  "It is a pleasure, Mr. Johnson. I am very happy to meet the man who can make up code messages with the captain extemporaneously and who always has a bolt in the right place at the right time." (11:07, Joan)

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• [01:33] – Near the rendezvous point with Johnson
• [01:52] – Joan explains escape cell procedure
• [03:05] – Magnetic bombs released
• [05:36] – Joan describes ascent to surface
• [07:46] – Concern grows for missing Joan
• [08:57] – Joan surfaces, party reunited
• [10:14] – Captain credits Joan’s actions
• [11:07] – Joan meets Johnson
• [11:46] – Captain describes new musical note threat
• [12:03] – Joan warns of submarine being attacked

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Tone & Style

• Pace: Brisk and tense, but with moments of relief and gratitude
• Humor: Provided by Jerry and his asides (e.g., poking fun at the “tin cans” and Joan’s resourcefulness)
• Suspense: Heightened by last-minute technical challenges and unknown dangers from Euclidea

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Final Thoughts

The episode successfully blends action, technical explanations, and heartfelt camaraderie in true old-time radio fashion. Listeners are left at the edge of their seats with the group’s fate hinging on escaping both technological and musical threats from the mysterious Magic Island. Joan’s resourcefulness and Jonson’s rescue solidify the spirit of teamwork and adventure that define this saga.

Transcript

[A]

I'm here on a job site with Tim, who owns his own electrical contracting business.

[B]

Three employees and two work trucks.

[A]

Tim traded up to Geico Commercial Auto Insurance. We're positively here where he needs us most.

[C]

They sure are.

[A]

With step by step help on all his insurance needs. All for shockingly low rates.

[C]

Shockingly low, huh?

[A]

Just a little bit of electrician humor. Do you get it?

[B]

I got it.

[A]

You know, it feels like we have a real connection.

[C]

Alright, I'll stop, get a commercial auto insurance quote [e-mail] and see how much you could save. It feels good. To Geico.

[D]

Just outside the entrance to the location Anglus harbor at San Pedro, a strange adventure is nearing a climax. The stolen Euclidean submarine with the Gregory party on board is racing across the Catalina island channel. And another Euclidean submarine filled with scientists from the magic island is hanging grimly to the Gregory boat by means of a magnetic beam. Joan is at the controls. As total darkness covers the channel, the time draws near for their attempt to escape from the submarine.

[B]

Hey, Joan, we're picking up a little speed.

[E]

We do seem to be moving faster, Jerry. Why is that, John?

[F]

It is barely possible that the magnetic beam of the following submarine is weakening slightly.

[C]

Well, I wouldn't be surprised. They've used that thing continuously for seven hours. How about our getting the magnetic bombs back to them if that beam gets too weak?

[F]

Do not worry about that, Captain Bradford. The magnetic bombs will follow a line of electrical impulse no matter how weak.

[E]

Then we are absolutely sure we can hold that boat helpless and we're ready to escape from this one.

[F]

Yes, Mother.

[C]

What's our position now, Joan?

[F]

We are nearly to the point you have established for Johnson to meet us with his sailboat catcher.

[C]

How near?

[F]

We will reach the midway point between the breakwater and Catalina island in less than 120 seconds.

[B]

Two minutes. Boy, let's do something about getting ready.

[E]

Yes, Joan, you haven't explained those escape chambers we're going to use.

[F]

The explanation is very simple. Jerry, will you please open one of those four large cylinders just forward of this compartment?

[B]

You mean we're going to get inside those little tanks?

[F]

Precisely. The covers are not locked. They will swing open easily.

[B]

Oh, okay, if you say so.

[F]

Now, Mother, if you and the captain will step over there near Jerry, I will make the explanation from here as I must remain at the controls to stabilize our boat and release the magnetic bombs the instant we are in position.

[C]

Very well, Joan. Come on, Pat.

[E]

I'm a little nervous, Texas. This is getting very near the end of our journey.

[B]

Only the Beginning of Magic island, though. Wait till we go back with some help and take the island away from old G47.

[F]

It would be well to get out of here first, if you will allow me to explain these escape cells.

[C]

Go to it, Joan, and keep still, Jerry.

[B]

Calm still.

[F]

One moment. All hold firmly to your stations. And let's now release the magnetic bomb. I think two would prove sufficient. However, I will use four to guarantee our safety.

[E]

Is that all there is to it, Charles?

[F]

That is all. The bombs have been released. In a few seconds, that magnetic beam will be broken.

[C]

Then we can make our escape from this boat.

[B]

Hey, what's going on here?

[F]

We're being tossed around. I will take care of that.

[C]

Those bombs sure traveled half a mile and nothing.

[B]

Plus. Gee, did you ever hear so much quiet so quick?

[F]

You cannot hear quiet, Jerry.

[C]

Maybe not, Joan, but that silence was certainly sudden.

[E]

What happened, Joan, dear?

[F]

The moment we were released from that magnetic beam, our submarine started to spurt forward. And not wishing to run beyond the position of our meeting with Johnson's surface boat, I used all reverse jets. We are now stationary and will remain stabilized at this point.

[E]

Is Johnson dew over us now?

[C]

Right this minute.

[B]

Then let's hurry and get up to him. I'd like to try being on top of the water for a while.

[F]

I will now explain the escape cell.

[E]

Joan, is it safe for you to leave the controls?

[F]

The submarine will not move from this spot.

[B]

Sure got these boats trained.

[F]

I told you to open these cells, Jerry.

[B]

Oh, I got excited and forgot it, I guess.

[C]

Will you just lift these covers off, Joan?

[F]

They will not lift off. Open them toward the shell of the submarine. In this manner, each of you open your own.

[B]

There's mine.

[C]

Mine's open.

[F]

And there is mine. Now we will need to work very rapidly. No one knows how great a margin of time we may have before the Euclideans find a way to interfere.

[B]

Well, we're listening.

[F]

We must all take our places in these cells at once. If you watch me enter this one, you may all duplicate the action. Place your foot here, then step up here. Raise your weight by these holes on the shell so. And lower your body into the cylinder as I am doing. This is the final position.

[E]

Well, it's slightly more acrobatic than anything I've attempted for some time, but I think I can make it.

[B]

Oh, sure you can, Mrs. Gregory. Look, it's like this.

[C]

Yes, you move a little faster than I can, Jerry, and much faster than I can.

[B]

Well, I'm in right with you, son.

[E]

And I think. Yes, I've made it at last.

[B]

There sure isn't any room to spare in these tin cans.

[F]

You will have ample room. Now, listen carefully. The procedure is this. We will ascend one at a time. You will find a small valve directly in front of your chest. With that, you may regulate the speed of your rise. Opening the valve wider accelerates the rate of speed. When you reach the surface, open the COVID of the cell as it is now. And if the water is smooth enough, you may leave them open. Otherwise, keep them closed and watch through the ports for our rescuer.

[C]

Suppose you go first, Joan, and show us how it's done.

[F]

No, you will go first, Captain. I want you to be in a position to take charge of the rescue work with Johnson.

[C]

Right, Joan.

[F]

We will all close the covers of our cells. I will close mine last so that I may open the valve flooding the submarine and opening the locks above us. You will leave first, Captain. You next, Mother. Then you, Jerry and I will follow after making sure the submarine is properly flooded so that it may not be easily moved from this spot.

[C]

Well, here I go. Good luck, everybody.

[E]

Oh, good luck, Tex.

[B]

See you on top, folks.

[F]

Hurry, we are losing time. Close your covers so that I may flood these locks and release us.

[C]

Well, water's smooth anyway. Not a soul in sight.

[E]

Tax. Is that you, Tex?

[C]

Yes, Pat.

[E]

Do you see anything of Johnson?

[B]

Hey, anybody else floating around here?

[C]

Not so loud, Jerry.

[E]

It's impossible to swim with these things.

[C]

Just stay where you are for a minute.

[E]

Well, where's Joan?

[B]

I don't know.

[C]

Did you hear that, Johnson? Over here, Johnson.

[G]

Coming right up.

[B]

I still don't see Joan anywhere.

[E]

What could have happened?

[C]

Now, take it easy. She said she had to stay a few seconds behind us to make sure the sub flooded.

[E]

I'm getting worried about her tail.

[G]

Ready to come aboard?

[C]

Yes, Johnson. Thanks. I'll have to hang onto the gunnel and let this steel cylinder sink out from under me as I flood it.

[G]

We've got room for them here. You want to keep one for study?

[C]

Don't dare. Magnetism. Tell you all about it later. Here I come.

[G]

You can reach Mrs. Gregory over the stern and I'll swing the bow around to catch young Hall.

[C]

Go to it now. Coming up. Pat, can you reach the valve to flood that thing?

[E]

Yes, Tex, I'm all ready. But where's Joan?

[C]

We'll take care of that later. Here, here, give me your hand. Now open that valve up. Now hang on to my hand.

[G]

Ready, Hall?

[B]

Soon as I flood this thin can

[E]

old Tex back on a rear wooden boat. At last, and in our own friendly waters.

[C]

You're all set now, Pat.

[E]

But, Tex, where's Joan?

[B]

Hey, come here quickly.

[E]

Tex.

[B]

Mrs. Gregory, get over here.

[C]

Must have seen something.

[G]

What is it, Jerry?

[B]

Roll for that dark spot, quick. I'll help you.

[E]

What did you see, Jerry?

[B]

I don't know, but something came up

[F]

out of the water.

[B]

And it didn't look like one of those escape cylinder. Joan. On, Joan.

[C]

Take it easy, Pat.

[F]

Here I am, baby. It's Joan.

[B]

And she's on, boy. Oh, sure, she's all right. That girl can take care of herself.

[C]

I'll say she can't. Here, let me give you a hand aboard here. Joan.

[F]

Yes, Captain.

[E]

You're not hurt, are you, Joan?

[F]

No, Mother, I'm not hurt. But my cylinder was caught by the magnetic bombs.

[B]

Hey, then how did ours get away?

[F]

I released the balance of the bombs in order to ensure the stabilization of our boat. And the magnetic force spread more rapidly than I had counted on. It nearly stopped me.

[E]

And you mean to say you had to get out of that cylinder underwater

[F]

and come up without it? To be sure I did.

[C]

Well, that's a little too close, but we're all here. How about getting back home, Johnson?

[G]

I think we can make about 6 knots in this breeze with nothing but sail.

[C]

Get it on as fast as you can.

[G]

Come on, Jerry.

[C]

I can use you. No room for a crew on the small boat.

[E]

Tex, do you think we'll make it to shore?

[C]

Look, Joan's right about how long those magnetic bombs will hold that other boat powerless. I don't see how we can be stopped.

[F]

That other boat will be stationary for approximately two hours. And their radio will be paralyzed for an even longer time.

[E]

That means we can make the shore tax even at 6 knots. We can make it in two hours easily.

[C]

Looks like we've done all right, Pat. And we owe everything, all of it, to Joan.

[F]

I did only what I had been trained to do.

[C]

Captain, that Euclidean training is mighty good. Whether we like it or not, it's almost too good.

[B]

Well, we're on our way to the mainland. We got all the sail up.

[G]

If you don't mind, I'd like to sit back here and check up on what it's all about. Captain, I can handle the tiller from here.

[C]

By all means, Johnson, sit in now that we have time for it. A lot of thanks for some fine work all through this.

[E]

We're more than grateful, Johnson. You've been splendid.

[G]

It was like the old days with the captain. I enjoyed every minute of it, though I must Admit, it did look pretty black there at times.

[B]

Well, we've been in some mighty tight places since we left you at the same dock we're heading for now.

[E]

Oh, Johnson. I'm sorry.

[B]

Joan.

[E]

Johnson, this is Joan.

[G]

Well, young lady, I'm certainly glad to meet you.

[F]

It is a pleasure, Mr. Johnson. I am very happy to meet the man who can make up code messages with the captain extemporaneously and who always has a bolt in the right place at the right time.

[G]

Well, not always, Joan. We came out right this time. And I'm certainly glad your mother found you.

[C]

Now, if you'll excuse me, I think I'd better take charge and acquaint Johnson with some of the things we're up against and get his story on this Euclidean who located our home radio station.

[E]

We'll all keep still, Texas. Go ahead.

[C]

Well, in the first place, Johnson, there's another submarine down there near ours. They hung onto us with a magnetic beam, and Joan paralyzed their boat with magnetic bombs. But that won't last forever. And when they get free, we can look for trouble. Not only that, but some musical genius on the island has figured out how to transmit musical notes which will wreck those boats. He nearly hit us a couple of times.

[B]

Hey, what's that noise?

[F]

The boat is rocking badly.

[G]

Feels like we're over a volcano.

[F]

I know. Octavo has found a musical note. Our submarine is being attacked. Those are the compressed air tanks exploding.

[C]

We didn't get out of that boat any too soon.

[B]

Golly, Whisker.