Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: Ace Williams 38-xx-xx (05) The Tunis Terror
Release Date: March 2, 2025
Introduction and Mission
The episode kicks off with Ace Williams, the intrepid Commissioner of Police from Marseille, embarking on a perilous mission to uncover the mysteries surrounding the notorious Tuna Terror. Despite initial setbacks in obtaining concrete information about the Terror's headquarters, Ace secures the assistance of Lieutenant Demnay, a skilled seaplane pilot. Together with his assistant, Dick, Ace sets out to Valencia to meet Don Carlos Domingo, a man reputed to possess unparalleled knowledge about the Tuna Terror.
“The Commissioner of Police at Marseille was unable to furnish Ace Williams with definite information concerning the headquarters of the Tuna Terror. However, he arranged with the seaplane pilot, Lieutenant Demnay, to fly Ace and Dick to Valencia...”
[00:45] Ace Williams
Encounter with Air Pockets
As Ace, Dick, and Lieutenant Demnay navigate the skies over the Mediterranean, they encounter unexpected turbulence caused by air pockets—an atmospheric phenomenon resulting from the mixing of hot Saharan winds with cooler Mediterranean air. These air bumps create moments of tension, testing the crew's composure and the plane's stability.
“Air bumps are not there yet. They are caused by the odd wind blowing over from the Sahara Desert.”
[04:23] Ace Williams
Engine Trouble and Emergency
The flight takes a dire turn when the seaplane's engine begins to falter. Dick notices unusual behavior with the control board, signaling potential engine failure. Ace attempts to calm the situation, attributing the issue to minor carbon buildup. However, it's soon evident that the problem is more severe, leading to a rapid loss of altitude and compromised safety.
“Ace, there's something wrong. The last two times we dropped, Lieutenant Demnay did something to the control board. We're having engine trouble.”
[05:59] Dick
As the plane descends closer to the water, Ace and Dick grapple with the malfunctioning engine, striving to prevent a catastrophic crash. Their efforts include attempting to access the reserve gas pump and manually rectifying the fuel line issues.
“The motor is choking. All right, Dick. All right, come on...”
[10:01] Ace Williams
Rescue Attempt and Conflict
In the midst of the emergency, a speedboat adorned with a mysterious purple flag appears on the horizon. Initially hopeful for rescue, the situation quickly deteriorates as the speedboat's intentions come into question. Ace and Dick realize that the rescuers, identified as Algerians, may have hostile motives, leading to a tense confrontation.
“A boat. A boat. Can you see it, Lieutenant? Not yet...”
[10:34] Ace Williams
The Algerian sailors, with apparent ties to the Tuna Terror, begin to secure Ace and Dick, indicating that their rescue might not be as benevolent as hoped. The crew faces betrayal and the grim reality that they may be left to drown, heightening the episode's suspense.
“They've deliberately leaving us here to drown.”
[13:32] Dick
Cliffhanger Ending
As the seaplane loses its pontoons and becomes increasingly unstable, Ace and Dick are forced into a life-or-death situation. With limited time and resources dwindling, they make the harrowing decision to abandon the aircraft. The episode concludes on a gripping cliffhanger, leaving listeners eagerly anticipating the resolution of Ace Williams' harrowing adventure.
“Both pontoons are gone. Now we'll have to jump, Dick. We don't want to be caught in the suction when this wing goes under the water. Jump.”
[13:39] Ace Williams
"The Tunis Terror" masterfully combines elements of suspense, adventure, and intrigue, transporting listeners back to the thrilling days of Golden Age radio. Through Ace Williams' daring exploits and the palpable tension of airborne challenges, the episode encapsulates the essence of classic radio drama, keeping audiences engaged and eager for more.